Any vocalists in the house?

[Sub1 Zero]

Thought it might be nice to make a thread (maybe a Q&A as well) to discuss vocal techniques, tips, etc. and see how many of us attempt it. I recently have taken it up, and so far it is going okay.

I'll kick it off: how do you deal with ailments such as colds and seasonal allergies when you have to be counted on for shows?

[AtomicPunk]

Cold-eez lozenges, Afrin, hot tea, no dairy.
Although the other singer in my band will tell you Goldschlager, Brandy and a box of Kleenex on stage.

[Sub1 Zero]

I think I like your suggestion better...

[AtomicPunk]

I think I like your suggestion better...

Mine doesn't hurt so much in the morning.

[Volt]

I had strep throat once and HAD to sing, it was absolutely brutal. I remember mass quantities of Chloraseptic spray and a few (ahem) shots of Old Grand Dad bourbon. The two got me through it.

[BAKER2015]

Watch using hot tea, because tea will dry out the throat. Just try warm water.

If that's not enough, the cat from finger 11 turned me and some my other buddies on to stuff called, "glycerin". I guess its costly, but it really coats the throut well.

hope this helps.

B

[hedkutter18]

When I was in high school, our choir director had a bottle of pure peppermint extract. We would put a dab on our tongues before each performance. It really helps open up your throat and sinus cavities.

x2 on avoiding tea. Same for caffeine, as it also dries out your vocal chords. Water, water and more water. Milk builds up mucous in your throat as well.

[bkrumme]

Room temperature water. Nothing acidic (orange juice, lemonade, etc.).

[TheStiffness]

snort spoonfuls of salt water... clears your nasal passages...

not the most enjoyable activity, but it works.

Gargle with warm water.

Some people recommend a good Cuban and a swig of Tobasco....