We've all got the same vocal equipment, so it's remarkable that regional cultures have used these raw materials to develop distinctive vocal traditions, expressed in a range of musical styles.
Singers from other disciplines often criticise folk-singing styles as being simple and unrefined. While it’s true that many traditional singers aim for a natural, unaffected voice, there are also some singing traditions that are very hard to learn and extremely physically demanding — pushing the human voice into exciting and challenging sonic territories.
Unlike classical music, which encourages singers to use a standardised 'perfected' vocal technique, most world traditions encourage singers to work with the strengths and quirks of their natural voice.
In a less formal way, the commercial requirements of jazz, pop, rock and country tend to encourage singers to work within a limited range of vocal possibilities. This even extends to the accent that singers use, with many singers affecting mid-Atlantic vowel sounds. Try to think of Australian pop singers who sound recognisably Australian — there aren't many.
By contrast, world music embraces a fantastic variety of singing techniques and distinctive voices. Here at The Pure Drop, you can get a small taste of what's on offer. Compare the left-field vocalisations of Inuit throat singing to the formal, restrained style of Icelandic rímur, the pure, clear tones of Emma Härdelin, and the more naturalistic approach of the Stiff Gins, Billy Bragg, and Waterson:Carthy.
To explore the wider world of vocal traditions on the web, check out some of the great singers listed below.
