24/11/2024
*V o c a l H e a l t h*
Victor Adenola Emaba Morrison Dickson Dare Isaac Elizabeth Morenikeji Oluloseyifunmi Olufemi Oluwafemi Kirk Franklin Temitayo Okunsanmi
The food you consume plays a crucial role in both your prowess and well-being. Your dietary choices can influence the condition of your vocal cords, your overall singing performance, and the clarity of your voice. Additionally, inadequate rest can negatively impact your vocal abilities. Think of your voice as a finely tuned machine; neglecting proper care and maintenance could result in disappointment when your voice falters during important presentations. Much like handling delicate eggs, it's essential to handle your voice with care and intentionality to ensure its longevity and optimal .
A few years back, I received an invitation to participate in a held in Lagos, Nigeria. Prompted by this, I rallied my team to prepare for the event. However, during this period, I was also juggling the management of two concurrent music workshops, leaving me swamped with tasks. Regrettably, amidst the hectic schedule, I neglected both my dietary habits and my health.
Upon arrival at the venue with my band, we were warmly greeted and escorted to a reserved area. As the moment approached for me to take the stage, I realized that I was the sole major guest minister in attendance, raising the expectations to an immense height.
Just moments into my performance, I noticed a decline in the quality of my voice. Initially attributing it to a potential spiritual interference, I soon realized the reality of the situation. With an hour left on stage and my voice failing me, two members of my team hurried backstage to intercede in prayer, hoping for a miraculous restoration. In a swift decision, I passed the microphone to one of my key backup singers and retreated to play one of the pianos on stage. It was an incredibly humiliating moment as my voice practically ceased to cooperate despite attempts to hydrate.
This was an unprecedented occurrence for me, one that tarnished what could have been a significant platform. Unfortunately, the organizers did not extend another invitation to me and my team for subsequent events.
Perhaps you've encountered a similar setback, or found yourself on the brink of one. Upon reflection on my experiences and circumstances, I uncovered the following insights:
: I often find myself engaged in lengthy conversations, singing sessions, or teaching sessions, sometimes spanning several hours, without pausing to hydrate. It's not until I begin to sense a slight discomfort in my voice that I remember to drink water. However, maintaining proper hydration is crucial for preserving vocal health. Dehydration can dry out the vocal cords, reducing their flexibility and increasing the risk of vocal strain, ultimately impairing the production of clear and resonant sounds. Opting for water or herbal teas is highly recommended to keep the vocal cords moisturized and flexible.
: I have a preference for enjoying cold tea, typically made with milk and Milo. A habit of mine involves cutting bread into pieces and submerging them in the tea, allowing the bread to soak up the liquid. I might indulge in this ritual more than twice a day, with yogurt being another favored option. However, it's important to note that for some individuals, these dairy-based treats can stimulate mucus production. Excessive mucus can lead to a congested feeling in the throat, which can hinder clear singing. If you notice an increase in mucus production after consuming dairy, it could impact your vocal performance. Therefore, my recommendation is to either abstain entirely from dairy or consider reducing your intake before performances to maintain optimal vocal clarity.
Options -
If you're acquainted with Lagos city, you'll notice the abundance and easy accessibility of junk food options. I recall indulging in combinations like fried yam and akara paired with Pepsi, or occasionally opting for indomie with fried egg from street-side vendors, or even treating myself to puff-puff with a cold sobo drink. However, it's crucial to recognize that a diet centered around fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats offers essential nutrients that are vital for both overall health and vocal wellness. These nutrient-rich foods can help sustain energy levels, reduce inflammation, and provide the necessary nourishment to keep vocal cords healthy and functioning optimally.
- I recall one of my backup vocalists; he had an insatiable appetite. This individual could devour eleven wraps of fufu and follow it up with a serving of garri without skipping a beat. On the night of the event in question, before heading out from home, I myself indulged in a hearty meal of four wraps of fufu accompanied by goat meat peppersoup. Unfortunately, this decision led to an unfavorable outcome by the end of the event. Consuming large meals right before singing can result in discomfort and hinder diaphragmatic support, making it difficult to maintain control and vocal freedom. It's advisable to opt for a light meal or snack well in advance of any singing engagements.
- Avoid making commitments to be present everywhere at once. Allocate time for genuine rest and carefully manage your engagements. Personally, I often find myself transitioning from one training session to another, sometimes conducting workshops for various choirs across different locations consecutively. Whether it's through Zoom, Teams, or WhatsApp sessions, I've been continuously occupied without allowing myself a break. Reflecting on this, I recall a lady whose voice consistently sounded strained. Whenever we scheduled voice recording sessions, we struggled to capture clear audio. Her schedule was packed, moving swiftly from rehearsals to events, outreach programs, and then to praise nights without pause. I felt compelled to advise her to prioritize self-care and take a more measured approach to her commitments.
To wrap up, your dietary choices can significantly influence your singing performance by impacting the health of your vocal cords, your hydration levels, and your overall vocal comfort. It's crucial to maintain a well-rounded diet, ensure proper hydration, and be mindful of how certain foods can affect your voice. If you're unsure about how your diet may be impacting your singing, it's advisable to seek advice from a nutritionist or vocal coach for tailored recommendations. Additionally, it's important to manage your commitments effectively to avoid becoming too overwhelmed to prioritize your vocal health. Make a deliberate effort to care for your voice.
