Unearthing Your Unique Sound as an Artist
By Annabel Gutherz
As an artist, lyrically expressing myself in an authentic way felt natural and intuitive, yet crafting a unified sonic identity proved to be more perplexing. While it was fun and educational to sink my creative shovel into various styles and genres, as an artist, it's important to share a cohesive sound that most represents who you are, especially if you plan to release a collection of songs on an EP or album. In this journey, I donned my metaphorical archeologist gear, akin to a college-aged Cole Sprouse, to excavate the artifacts that would lead me to my authentic musical voice. If you're in search of your own sound, let's dig into the process!
1. Your Inspirations
What music dominates your Wrapped after a year of listening and ignites your desire to express your artistry? Despite my broad musical taste, reflecting on these types of questions helped me further distill the styles that resonated with me as a recording and performing artist. You may even start to identify elements and features of this music that will clarify your creative vision!
2. Your Aspirations
Which artists do you aspire to emulate? This seemingly straightforward question was transformative in helping me define my sonic identity and crystallize my artistic direction. By noting the qualities of artists I admired, I gained valuable insights into the type of artist I aspired to become. This awareness became a beacon that enabled me to navigate and shape my unique musical identity.
3. Your Singing Voice
What styles and tones feel most natural for you? What genres let your singing voice really shine? Understanding my own singing voice was another pivotal revelation that better distilled my sonic identity. By experimenting with different genres and melodies, I was able to identify my vocal strengths and weaknesses and what felt most comfortable and honest for me to express. This knowledge finalized my sonic blueprint and gave me a better understanding of how to tailor my writing and musical exploration.
In conclusion, finding your unique sound as an artist is a process that requires open-mindedness, patience, and a willingness to explore diverse musical styles. If you’re anything like me, examining your inspirations, aspirations, and singing voice may help you uncover your authentic artistic voice. As you search, don’t be afraid to take chances, follow your heart, and don’t feel confined to any one sound! If you’re creating music that resonates with you, odds are, your audience will resonate and connect with it too. So, put on your metaphorical archeologist hat, grab your gloves, and shovel, and unearth the treasures that define your unique musical identity
Annabel Gutherz is a singer-songwriter based in Montreal
Website: annabelgutherz.com