Phrasing and Expression
A large part of the feeling and meaning of a song is conveyed by the particular expressions, inflections and phrasing that individual singers use. This is a very personal thing which is made up from the way the singer thinks about the song and how it relates to their own musical taste and experience of life. This is why two singers can sing the same song and produce dramatically different versions.
The term "phrasing" refers to the individual grouping of notes and/or lyrics and where punctuations and emphasis are placed. As in speech, this can alter either the actual meaning of the words or the feeling it conveys to a listener. Here are two different ways of delivering the same set of words:
- (angrily) "You did it, you know you did."
- (enthusiastic and complimentary) "You did it you know, you did."
When singing any song, it is important to think about phrasing so as to be able to communicate fully with the listener and bring your own interpretation to each set of lyrics. Instrumental musicians are also aware of the power of lyrics and vocal phrasing.
Many improvising musicians strive to achieve a "vocal" style of phrasing when they play. The great Jazz saxophonist Lester Young once said that he would never improvise on a song he didn’t know the words to.
