Hey You…with the Voice! Yeah, You!

Permalinkvoiceover View all 1,359 comments

So, you want to break into voiceovers? And why not? The opportunities today; what with the internet, commercials, promos, video games, audiobooks, etc…are seemingly endless. And after all, you’ve most likely been listening to/watching commercials for a majority of your life. You may be an actor or singer and have been complimented on your voice. Or you’re a ‘lay person’ (A.K.A a non-actor/singer) and have been told the same. Maybe you’d just like to learn more about becoming voiceover talent. But where to begin? Seems daunting…just like singing or songwriting. But in actuality, I can get you started. Here are five simple tips to set you on your way….

1) Take note. What do you hear on the radio or TV that makes you say, “Hey, that sounds like me! I can do that!”
2) Listen for trends. Are the voices apathetic? Anti-announcer? Jovial?
3) What makes you stand out? Can you do any accents or impressions?
4) Mimic. Practice sounding like what you hear.
5) Get an audience. Read the cereal box for your partner or your Mom.

I highly recommend working with a coach and professional Producer. And guess what? You’re in luck! I am a voiceover coach and have recently launched Fresh Gold Voiceover Demo Productions with the awesomely talented, meticulous Producer, Mike Leary (A.K.A Mike Fresh). We are already amassing satisfied clients and can help you get the reads you need on a fantastic demo and provide you with some resources as to where to send it. Contact me at: 212-875-7634 or gaby@gabygold.com for more information. Refer your friends and colleagues too! They’ll thank you for it!

Sing Out, Louis and Louise!

Permalinkwriting View all 20 comments

I have noticed that many people’s views of their capacity for songwriting is similar to many people’s feelings about whether or not they can sing. Both areas can feel daunting and elusive. I truly believe it is all connected with an openness of heart.When one feels comfortable, safe and not judged, (like singing in the shower, for example) amazing creative avenues can open. I have witnessed this first hand in the writing class I have attended weekly for nearly three years, Cheryl King’s Write Your Heart Out class at Stage Left Studio.

It is a nurturing environment full of support and acceptance and I have seen non-lyricists come up with some wonderful lyrical work because they feel like no one is  going to scoff or laugh at them. Think about it, how can one sing properly or think up a lyrical line when they feel like they are being judged for even trying? Your throat would close up and your brain would shut down. Free yourself and see what happens!

One exercise I would recommend for allowing for creative flow, if you will, would be to try to write a few short limericks and then sing them for someone you can trust. They could be funny, serious, pensive…anything that speaks to you. Oh and I also have to let you know about one of my favorite resources I use when writing…Rhymezone.com! Check it out. And please, don’t censor yourself.