accompanying a singer

[jude63]

any tips on "comping" a singer?.......should we lay back?.....do the more expreienced players do a better job?....if the person is not a great singer should we "kinda" play the melody?......I find it challenging trying to accompany a singer sometimes, especially the really emotional songs like "his eye is on the sparrow"

[under13]

I think the best thing is to learn when to lead and when to follow. Most of the time you will be following the singer, so you should not move to ahead of them. Sometimes you will have to lead, and set them up for the next part of the song.....its hard to explain. I suggest listening closely to youtube clips of people backing up soloist, I can give you some examples later.

[SoundofJoy]

To me its one of the hardest things for a musician to so especially when haven't practiced with the singer. Here's a clip I did from youtube.

Piano versions

Playing behind a Soloist " I Tried Him and I know Him"

Organ version

Organ version following behind the soloist " I Tried Him and I Know Him"

[under13]

I love that organ clip Sam!


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As I was saying before, you have to know how to follow. In the clip below, notice how the organist waits until the singer gets to the next change, before he plays it, especially at around 2:10 when he paused.

I Won't Complain

[betnich]

At the beginning of slower songs, I like to follow the singer - but -

Sometimes, when the singer is unsteady, you do have to set a beat to push them along...

[T-Block]

T-Block's #1 rule of accompanying: DON'T BE A CARBON COPY OF THE SINGER (or other instruments)!!!

[jude63]

Thanks for all the responses....and those great examples...