Female Powerhouses of Pop hero

Female Powerhouses of Pop

Posted Monday, June 27th 2022 by Kacey Velazquez
From belting to riffing galore, these artists take vocal acrobatics to the next level...

In addition to their singing abilities, they are incredible businesswomen and performers who have paved the way for future women in music - and they show no signs of slowing down. 

Beyoncé

Beyoncé has proven to be one of the best vocalists of our time, with her incredible vocal control, agility, and range. Beyoncé also has amazing vocal stamina. In this video, watch as she dances and moves all around that stage, but doesn't miss a single note. I'm sure she's feeling the workout - but the audience would never know. 

Taylor Swift

In addition to being a great singer, Taylor Swift is a massively successful and influential songwriter. Taylor's music has inspired generations of new songwriters, including new pop stars like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo. Taylor has explored many different styles of music, so check out this video of her singing her hits that have topped all the charts.

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande's bright and airy tone and effortless belting lends itself perfectly to her hit music. She has a background in musical theatre and TV and is now expanding into the beauty industry. This video shows the different colors of Ariana's voice and music. My favorite is when she's singing those ballads, giving us a little chest dominant belt and letting that vibrato soar.

Adele

Everyone loves to sing, dance, and cry to Adele's heart wrenching ballads. She is a talented songwriter, and her performances are consistently powerful and moving. Check out this video, and watch how her free and open embouchure contributes to her classic big and "belty" sound.

Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga... Need I say more? She is an all around artist and has done it all: singing, songwriting, acting, dancing, producing, and more. She is a fearless performer and a fearless person. This video is a perfect example of how Lady Gaga always gives 110% in her performances and means every word she sings. She knows that if she feels it the audience will too.

Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson makes singing sound easy - and you always know it's her. Her mix is... *chef's kiss* Since her early days as a contestant on American Idol she has expanded her career beyond music. She has her own TV talk show! Check out this video and listen for classic Kelly vocals: head-dominant mix, growling, riffing, and of course, sass!

P!nk

Pink has one of the biggest and underrated ranges in pop music. This video is proof! While she has a very developed chest voice and can sing beautiful, rich low notes, she can also access an impressive head dominant mix that allows her to sing notes that feel sky high. 

Rihanna

Rihanna has one of the most distinct voices in music and has seamlessly expanded into the fashion and beauty worlds. Check out this video, where she is exploring all the bright and dark tones and stylistic effects like rasp and growling. 

Katy Perry

Katy Perry has a big range and a big personality! While she found a home in pop music with many hit songs and successful tours, she also expanded into TV and entertainment. When I watch this video, it's clear that Katy is a true entertainer who knows how to give her audience strong vocals and a strong performance.

Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa is known for her fresh, upbeat pop music that you can't get out of your head. Her thick raspy chest voice has helped her stand out from others on the radio and make a name for herself in pop. I love this video. It perfectly captures the "Dua" vibe, and I love her classic ad-libs to the crowd like "Hey!" and "Woo" between sections of the song. It keeps the energy moving and the attention on her. 

These women and their music have connected me to some wonderful students around the world. We continue to be inspired by their technique, passion, performances, music, and, of course, their voices.

Let us know some of your favorite female singers and how they've impacted your vocal journey!

Kacey Velazquez

Kacey Velazquez is a seasoned vocal coach, songwriter, and recording artist from New York City. Kacey has been involved in the arts her whole life, getting her start in musical theatre. When she was just thirteen years old, she began songwriting, recording, and performing her original music at acclaimed venues in New York City including The Bitter End, 54 Below, The Cutting Room, The Astor Room, and the St. George Theatre.

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