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How to Be a Better Frontman

In theory, being the lead singer of a rock band is where all the glory is. But being the frontman of a band also comes with a lot or responsibilities. As the band's leader, you'll be the public face for the group and may also be responsible for booking, management and planning. That's to say nothing of the vocal work itself, which can be the difference between a band that sounds good and a band that sounds great. With practice and perseverance, you can learn how to be a better frontman, both musically and as a leader.

Things You'll Need

  • Practice space
  • Microphone
  • Microphone stand
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Instructions

  1. Improving Musically

    • 1

      Practice all of your songs individually and with the band. Repeat songs with fast vocal parts over and over, starting slowly at first and building speed as you go. Articulate every note as you practice, suggests Michelle Hallman, a vocal instructor writing for Chicago Music Guide.

    • 2

      Warm up your vocal chords before each gig. Pick a song you can have fun with. Songs such as "Heigh-Ho" and "Have You Seen The Ghost of John," or similar songs in the round, can be of particular value, says online resource Music-For-Music-Teachers.com. Stretching out your vocal chords can prevent damaging your voice.

    • 3

      Practice using the microphone and the microphone stand. Get to where you are comfortable removing the microphone from the stand and walking around the stand without fear of kicking it over during a performance setting.

    • 4

      Take vocal lessons. These sessions can expand your singing range and keep you in tune.

    • 5

      Learn to play an instrument. Even if you won't play the instrument onstage, knowing chords can help you understand melodies and better communicate musical ideas with your band mates.

    Leading the band

    • 6

      Create a set of goals for the band with the collaboration of the other musicians. Within these goals, determine the musical direction of the band and whether the group is a full-time endeavor or a fun weekend side project.

    • 7

      Communicate with your band members by creating a gig and rehearsal calendar and establishing preferred methods of communication.

    • 8

      Set an example, says Musician Wages, a website for working musicians. This includes showing up on time, knowing your material and being professional.

    • 9

      Allow each of the musicians to have their moment. If it is time for a guitar solo, for instance, let the musician complete it and show their talents before coming back in with vocals. Each musician should feel like they are contributing to the musical product.

    • 10

      Maintain a web presence for your band using social media sites, a blog or a web page (or all three) to list contact information and gig dates for the band. Keep information fresh and topical.

    • 11

      Book gigs for the band using band-mate recommendations about the type of gigs you wish to take. Building a series of contacts and organizing your requirements and recommendations can help you get gigs, says online musician's resource Indie-Music.com.

    • 12

      Share some of the responsibilities of band management. Find the strength of each band mate and allow them to shine in that role. If one of the members is a great organizer, have them keep the rehearsal schedule. If one has a particular interest in the web, allow them to maintain the group's website.

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