Whilst singing covers isn’t the aim of many of my clients, there are many good reasons to sing a cover and make it your own.
i) Because you love the song and just love singing it.
ii) Perhaps you want to perform it live and make it your own.
ii) Maybe you want to use it to grow and evolve your voice and musicianship.
iii) Perhaps you haven’t got any of your own songs just yet!
There are many reasons to cover songs and learn from the masters.
If your aim is to cover a song and re-imagine it you may well be asking yourself. How do I take a well-known song and make it feel like my own?
Here are some key steps to help you shape a song into something uniquely yours.
Step 1 – Connect with the Lyrics
Before you sing anything of course you need to connect with the lyrics. Understand what’s going on in the song. What is it saying? (Or what do you think it’s saying) and how does it relate to you? How do you relate to it? This can be a quick simple process or this can be a much deeper exploration of text, subtext etc.
Many singers dive into performing without truly understanding the songs they’re singing. But if you’re not connected to it, your audience won’t be either. It’s a great idea to research the original version, explore newer interpretations, and develop your own emotional connection.
Step 2 – KNOW WHAT MAKES YOU, YOU!
The most powerful tool you have as a singer is self-awareness. Know your voice—its strengths and limitations—and celebrate what makes you unique. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. As the ancient Greek maxim says, “Know Thyself.” Embracing your individuality will help you connect to songs in a way that’s deeply personal and authentic. Your distinctive style is what sets you apart.
Step 3 – Choose Your Key
Once you know your unique vocal strengths, you’re ready to dive into adjusting the song to fit your voice, starting with the key.
The original key may not suit your voice. Tools like Amazing Slow Downer let you adjust the key without distorting the sound, helping you find what works best.
Try experimenting with how high and low notes feel – Does the key highlight your strongest vocal range? Where the “climax notes” sit – Are the song’s peaks in a comfortable, powerful place for your voice? Adjusting the key to suit you not only makes singing easier but also helps you sound more original.
Step 4 – Arrangement – Pace, Groove, and Feel
If you’re accompanying yourself or have a band don’t be afraid to experiment with:
- Changing the tempo – A fast song can become melancholic when slowed down, or a ballad can turn into an upbeat groove.
- Exploring alternate phrasing – Play with where you breathe and how you shape each line.
- Reimagining the song in a different genre – A pop song can become jazzy, a rock song can take on a folk feel.
- Exploring instrumentation – If the original is piano-based, try it on guitar instead. Swapping instruments can breathe new life into a cover.
- Reharmonising the chords – This is a more advanced technique.
Vocally, experiment with:
- Adjusting the rhythm – Syncopation or small timing shifts can make a melody feel fresh.
- Transforming the melody – Subtle variations or entirely new interpretations can make a cover uniquely yours.
- Are there words you would just never say? – Make sure the song sits with who you are.
LISTEN TO GREAT COVERS TO HEAR HOW IT’S DONE WELL!
Check out Hallelujah, recorded differently and brilliantly by so many artists.
See my attached PDF for some of the many ways to make a song your own.
Choosing the Right Backing Track
If you’re using a pre-made backing track, keep in mind that:
- Most karaoke versions replicate the original tempo and groove, which can limit your creativity.
- Some karaoke tracks have poor instrumentation—if it sounds artificial or weak, consider an alternative.
- Software now exists that can remove vocals from the original track, allowing you to sing with the actual band! However, this can make it tempting to mimic the original performance.
If you want more creative freedom, consider:
- Using a sparse backing track that gives you room to experiment. It also gives your voice more space!
- Collaborating with musicians to create a fresh arrangement.
- Accompanying yourself for full control over the interpretation.
- Singing a cappella to focus entirely on your vocal delivery.
Step 5 – SONGWRITING AS A TOOL FOR SELF-DISCOVERY
The aim of most of the singers I work with is to write and sing original material. It’s the best way to ‘find your voice’ and to make songs that are really your own! Even if you use it as a learning exercise and decide not to share your songs with the public. Writing your own songs allows you to connect deeply with your material, and in turn, this self-expression can unlock new dimensions of your voice. Singing lessons often incorporate songwriting as a powerful tool for creative growth.
THE PERSONAL NATURE OF MUSICAL INTERPRETATION
Remember, there’s no definitive right or wrong way to make a song your own. It’s a highly personal and creative process, with each artist having a unique approach to it. So, take the leap, experiment with your voice, and let your unique style emerge. Every song is a chance to explore your voice and artistry and every performance is an opportunity to share that with your audience.
If you’re exploring how to make songs feel more authentically yours, I offer expressive voicework, vocal coaching and artist development in London and online worldwide. When you’re ready to deepen your interpretation and uncover your own sound, you’re welcome to reach out.
