Lead Vocals

May 7th, 2006

The position of “lead vocals” is a very taxing and demanding job. Most often, the job of the lead vocal is to “front” group. Front is important for the customer relations part of the night. This is the face the group gives to the crowd.
Kimo Muraki is a beautiful singer, I think all would agree. When Marmalade was in Marseilles at L’Intermediaire, Kimo and I started the night out with a tight horn line, effectively setting the scene for a vocal melody. Kimo stepped up singing and took control of the crowd; really communicated with them. He wasn’t just throwing words at them, he was speaking to each and every one of them. Language was no barrier; he was inside their eyes, inside their ears and inside their hearts. It was beautiful.
Since I have begun playing with Marmalade in ernest; I have seen Funk step up time and again and do this. I know that this is one of the most difficult things to do. It feels dangerous. I really respect Funk in how he has been developing this ability. I have watched him for years. It has been my distinct pleasure to watch this flower bloom.
Another great example of a musician who can really handle the job of front is Ernest Pumphrey, Jr. He has an inate ability to connect with the crowd. It comes so naturally to him. It is probably because he has been doing it most of his life. I don’t think he ususally even questions it.
For someone just sliding into the spot, it can really be upsetting. Too often, I have watched a vocalsist get up there and just sing words at the crowd. They have some idea that if they just keep singing, the crowd will be there for them. Sometimes they do get some on board with them, but that is mostly because the audience is trained to watch what is happening on stage.
I am talking about this because I see it (or don’t see it) so often. If there is anything I could say to a front person it would be, “Connect.”

Entry Filed under: Thoughts, Music