Karaoke Singing

The smile technique, taught by many teachers is actually detrimental to vocal health and good vocal sound. Yes, it does make the sound brighter and somewhat louder but this is just a quick fix solution. In actual fact the sound will also become very thin and tinny, with no 'bottom end' or lower harmonics - I call it the chipmunk sound! Scientific studies using fiberoptic research has demonstrated that the smile technique raises the larynx, lowers the soft palate, moves the jaw forward and prevents proper closure of the vocal cords - all of which are detrimental to good singing.

So if you'd like to sound like a pro singer instead of a chipmunk, the correct technique is to smile inwardly by lifting the soft palate, without spreading the lips into a smile. If you look in the mirror whilst you do this you'll see the (zygomatic) muscles at the top part of your cheeks lift up very slightly. You may feel a sensation of being very light in the head, like you're on the moon with less gravity! Once you become used to the concept of smiling inwardly, which can take time to develop, you'll realise just how awkward and ineffective the old smile technique was