Vocal Improvisation in Rock Music

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to highlight the peculiarities of vocal improvisation in rock music. The historical and theoretical aspects of the research problem are characterised, the works of famous rock singers whose vocal improvisation has become an integral part of their musical activity are analysed. Research methodology. To achieve this goal, a set of methods was used, namely: general scientific methods – analysis, synthesis, generalisation, systematisation – were used to develop the problem; specific scientific methods: historical-genetic and retrospective analysis, which clarified the formation and development of rock music; comparative and contrastive analysis, which was used to outline vocal improvisation in rock music; biographical method, which was used to analyse vocal improvisation in the activities of famous rock singers. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that for the first time the features of vocal improvisation in rock music are presented. Conclusions. The article focuses on the concept of “vocal improvisation” (the process of creating music with the voice without pre-prepared musical or textual materials), reveals its essential aspects in rock music, which are hidden in a special tension, energy, emotional load, melody, smooth transitions between notes, the use of a rough voice, special effects such as echo, reverb, vocal filters. The features of vocal improvisation are analysed on the example of the works of Freddie Mercury (rock band “Queen”), Robert Plant (rock band “Led Zeppelin”), Steven Tyler (rock band “Aerosmith”). It has been found that a wide vocal range, the use of high notes, spontaneous vocal phrases and sounds are characteristic of Freddie Mercury (“Bohemian Rhapsody”, “Galileo”, “Someone to Love”). Whereas strong, expressive vocals and the ability to vary vocal riffs characterize Robert Plant (“Whole Lotta Love”, “Dazed and Confused”, “Black Dog”) and Steven Tyler (“Dream”, “Sweet Emotions”, “Mama Kin”). The focus is on vocal improvisation in rock music of the early XXI century, which is characterized by eclectic styles, the use of technology, and variations in lyrics.

Keywords: vocals, improvisation, music, rock, vocal improvisation, rock music, rock band.