Short Songs To Sing

Overview of Short Songs

A short song is typically defined as a musical composition that is brief in duration. While the exact length can vary, these songs usually last less than three minutes. Short songs are a popular choice for singers of all levels, as they offer a range of benefits and opportunities for vocal expression.

Curated List of Short Songs to Sing

Popular Short Songs

Popular short songs are those that have gained widespread recognition and have become favorites among audiences. These songs often have catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, making them enjoyable to sing. Some popular short songs to consider include “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake, and “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran.

Classic Short Songs

Classic short songs refer to timeless compositions that have stood the test of time. These songs are often revered for their beautiful melodies and poetic lyrics. Examples of classic short songs include “Yesterday” by The Beatles, “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen, and “Imagine” by John Lennon.

Contemporary Short Songs

Contemporary short songs are more recent compositions that have gained popularity in recent years. These songs often reflect current musical trends and offer a fresh take on popular genres. Some examples of contemporary short songs include “Royals” by Lorde, “Someone Like You” by Adele, and “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic.

Criteria for Selecting Short Songs

When selecting short songs to sing, there are a few key criteria to consider.

Duration

One of the main criteria for selecting a short song is its duration. As short songs are typically less than three minutes long, it is important to choose a song that fits within this time frame. This ensures that the song can be fully performed without feeling rushed or cut off.

Melody

The melody of a song is another important consideration. It is essential to choose a song with a melody that suits your vocal range and abilities. This will allow you to comfortably reach the notes and showcase your vocal skills.

Lyrics

The lyrics of a song play a significant role in connecting with the audience and expressing emotions. When selecting a short song, consider the lyrics and choose a song with meaningful and relatable words that resonate with you.

Benefits of Singing Short Songs

Singing short songs offers numerous benefits for both beginners and experienced singers.

Vocal Exercise and Warm-up

Short songs can serve as excellent warm-up exercises for singers. They allow you to practice proper vocal techniques, such as breath control, vocal range, and phrasing. Singing short songs regularly can help improve your vocal skills and build stamina.

Performance Opportunities

Short songs are often the perfect choice for various performance opportunities. Whether you are performing at an open mic night, a talent show, or a small gathering, short songs allow you to showcase your talents without overwhelming the audience or taking up too much time.

Casual Singing and Enjoyment

Short songs are not just for formal performances; they can also be enjoyed in casual settings. Singing short songs for pleasure, whether alone or with friends, can bring joy and relaxation. Additionally, short songs are easy to learn and memorize, making them ideal for spontaneous singing sessions.

Tips for Learning and Performing Short Songs

Learning and performing short songs effectively requires some strategies and techniques.

Breaking Down the Song into Sections

To learn a short song efficiently, break it down into smaller sections. Start by memorizing the melody and lyrics of the first section before moving on to the next. This approach allows you to focus on one part at a time and gradually build up the entire song.

Practicing Breath Control and Phrasing

Short songs require careful attention to breath control and phrasing. Practice sustaining your breath throughout the song, taking appropriate pauses, and emphasizing important words or phrases. This will help you deliver a polished and expressive performance.

Incorporating Emotion and Expression

Short songs provide an opportunity to convey emotion and expression in a condensed format. Experiment with different vocal techniques, such as dynamics, vibrato, and vocal inflections, to bring out the intended emotions in the song. Connect with the lyrics and find ways to express their meaning through your voice.

Techniques for Enhancing Short Song Performances

To take your short song performances to the next level, consider the following techniques.

Vocal Dynamics and Control

Mastering vocal dynamics and control can greatly enhance your short song performances. Experiment with variations in volume, tone, and intensity to add depth and texture to your singing. This will help captivate the audience and create a memorable performance.

Interpretation and Artistic Choices

Make artistic choices that align with the mood and message of the song. Pay attention to the lyrics and find ways to interpret them authentically. Experiment with different phrasing, vocal ornaments, and vocal runs to add your unique touch to the song.

Stage Presence and Engagement

Engaging the audience and commanding the stage is crucial for a captivating short song performance. Practice your stage presence by making eye contact, using gestures, and moving with purpose. Connect with the audience and make them feel a part of your performance.

Short Songs for Different Vocal Ranges

Short songs can be tailored to suit different vocal ranges. Here are some suggestions for each vocal range:

Sopranos

• “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland
• “Halo” by Beyoncé
• “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

Altos

• “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones
• “At Last” by Etta James
• “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion

Tenors

• “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
• “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
• “Wonderwall” by Oasis

Basses

• “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King
• “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra
• “Johnny B. Goode” by Chuck Berry

Short Songs for Various Occasions

Short songs can be suitable for various occasions, providing the perfect musical backdrop. Here are some examples:

Auditions

• “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
• “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone
• “Imagine” by John Lennon

Weddings and Events

• “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
• “Marry You” by Bruno Mars
• “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra

Singing Competitions

• “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston
• “Feeling Good” by Nina Simone
• “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

Adapting Short Songs for Different Genres

Short songs can be adapted to suit different genres, allowing for versatility in performance. Here are some ideas for adapting short songs to different genres:

Pop Music

• Take a classic short song and give it a modern pop twist by adding contemporary production elements and rhythmic variations.

Musical Theater

• Select a short song from a popular Broadway musical and perform it with theatricality and dramatic expression, paying attention to character portrayal and storytelling.

Jazz and Blues

• Choose a short song with a soulful melody and add improvisational elements, such as scat singing or bluesy vocal embellishments, to infuse it with a jazzy or bluesy feel.

Finding Short Songs

There are several resources available to find short songs for singing:

Online Song Databases and Websites

Numerous online platforms offer comprehensive song databases that allow you to search for short songs based on various criteria such as genre, length, and difficulty level. Websites like Spotify, YouTube, and SongSelect are excellent sources for discovering short songs.

Vocal Sheet Music Collections

Vocal sheet music collections, whether in physical or digital form, can provide a wealth of short songs to choose from. Libraries, music stores, and online sheet music platforms like Sheet Music Plus and Musicnotes offer a wide range of vocal sheet music collections.

Vocal Coaches and Singing Teachers

Working with a vocal coach or singing teacher can be an invaluable resource for finding suitable short songs. They can help assess your vocal abilities, guide you in selecting appropriate songs, and provide personalized recommendations based on your voice and goals.

Conclusion

Short songs offer a myriad of opportunities for singers to showcase their skills, connect with audiences, and enjoy the art of singing. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build vocal confidence or an experienced performer seeking new repertoire, short songs provide a versatile and accessible option. By selecting songs that suit your vocal range, practicing proper techniques, and infusing your performances with emotion and expression, you can unlock the full potential of short songs and unleash the power of your voice.

FAQs

1. Can short songs be used for vocal warm-ups?

Yes, short songs can serve as excellent warm-up exercises for singers. They allow you to practice proper vocal techniques, such as breath control, vocal range, and phrasing.

2. How can I choose a short song that suits my vocal range?

When choosing a short song, consider the melody and ensure it falls within your vocal range. It’s important to choose a song that you can comfortably sing without straining your voice.

3. Are short songs suitable for auditions?

Short songs can be a great choice for auditions, as they allow you to showcase your talent within a limited time frame. Choose a song that highlights your strengths and demonstrates your vocal abilities.

4. Can I adapt a short song to a different genre?

Yes, short songs can be adapted to different genres. By adding stylistic elements or rearranging the instrumentation, you can give a short song a fresh and unique interpretation.

5. Where can I find short songs to sing?

You can find short songs on online platforms like Spotify and YouTube, in vocal sheet music collections, and by seeking guidance from vocal coaches and singing teachers. These resources offer a wide range of short songs to choose from based on your preferences and vocal abilities.