In this case study episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace breaks down the distinctive qualities and vocal techniques that defined Ray Charles as a legendary singer and performer. Discover how he balanced a raw, unpolished grit with a deeply rooted chest resonance and forward placement to create an incredibly emotive and timeless sound. The episode explores his masterful, unpredictable phrasing that rejected a square, predictable rhythm in favour of emotional storytelling. Grace also highlights his intentional use of vocal imperfections—such as breaks, cries, and audible breaths—to drive the narrative of a song rather than simply showing off vocal acrobatics. Packed with practical, joy-driven exercises you can try at home, this episode offers actionable insights into incorporating bluesy colours, pentatonic scales, and genuine emotional intent into your own unique voice.

To hear these techniques in action, you can access the curated YouTube playlist matching the order of the songs discussed in this episode here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxmpDkAsBTotUBLX5IoKQWHu0bcw1jU5Q

Key Topics

• Ray Charles' vocal tone and placement
• Phrasing and timing in singing
• Adding bluesy colour and emotion
• Vocal resonance
• Breath control and emotional delivery
• Using imperfections for authenticity
• Pentatonic and blues scales mastery
• Expressive embellishments and riffs

Takeaways

Ray Charles' tone combines roughness and refinement, rooted in chest resonance.

Phrasing is about storytelling—artistic fluidity with the rhythms and being lead by the emotion.

Bluesy colour comes from a solid internalisation of the minor pentatonic and blues scales.

Emotions are conveyed through tone colour, dynamics, and intentional imperfections.

Breath and timing are crucial for emotional impact and authenticity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ray Charles' Vocal Techniques

00:54 Trying out Ray's Tone and Placement

05:05 Riffs and Bends: Get The Bluesy Signature Sound

10:24 How to Use Vocal Imperfections for Emotional Connection

14:06 How to Communicate Emotion Only Through Vocal Tone

17:43 Conclusion: Character Over Perfection

Resources:

Youtube Playlist with songs mentioned: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxmpDkAsBTotUBLX5IoKQWHu0bcw1jU5Q

Songs mentioned:

I Gotta Woman

Georgia

A Fool For You

The Night time is the Right Time

I Can’t Stop Loving You

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

Vocal fitness is not a topic to store away for later life. On this episode of Curious Vocalists, Dr. Rebecca Moseley-Morgan, researcher, educator, and incoming President of the British Voice Association, breaks down the physiological shifts that begin in our late 20s and 30s. Using insights from voice science and organology, she outlines the early structural changes affecting our respiratory muscles and vocal folds. Dr. Moseley-Morgan shares highly practical prehabilitation techniques—including sirens, straw-phonation hacks, and tongue-root tension releases—designed to fit effortlessly into a busy, modern routine. Whether you are gigging nightly, teaching, or speaking on mic, this conversation delivers essential lifestyle habits and data-backed tools to stop early vocal strain and protect your long-term acoustic health.

Key Topics

• Vocal aging misconceptions
• Impact of aging on respiratory muscles and vocal folds
• Effective vocal exercises and techniques
• Importance of hydration and breath control
• Recognising early signs of vocal strain and damage

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Vocal Health and Aging

02:14 Rebecca's Journey from Opera to Research

03:43 Understanding Vocal Changes Over Time

06:38 Easy Daily Techniques for Vocal Health

10:39 How to Care For Your Voice in Your 20s/30s

14:39 Recognising Vocal Issues Early

15:13 Exercises to Improve Breathy Voices

18:58 The Stigma Attached to Vocal Injury

20:22 Effect of Emotion on Voice Function

22:01 Managing Vocal Load and Care

24:56 Establishing a Vocal Routine

26:31 Managing Tension in Singing

29:07 How to Harness Power From the Belly

34:51 Menopause and Myths About Vocal Changes

38:54 Maintaining Vocal Range with Age

40:02 Key Takeaways for Singers

Resources:

Rebecca’s Website: www.singstrongerforlonger.com

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, we step into the studio with Kimberly Shires, a classically trained clarinetist turned independent music producer, audio engineer, and owner of Hear Me Roar Studios. Kimberly shares powerful insights from her recent festival panel about breaking down technical barriers and eliminating the gatekeeping that often leaves artists feeling lost during the production process.

We explore why walking into a session relying solely on emotion can lead to miscommunication, as human feelings are entirely unique. Kimberly explains how artists can use reference tracks as a translation tool to dissect songs, identify specific sonic elements, and communicate effectively with engineers without needing to know complex technical jargon. The conversation also covers practical studio preparation—from the necessity of practicing with a metronome and marking breathing points on lyric sheets, to the psychological benefits of fixed-price recording sessions that eliminate the pressure of the clock.

Finally, Kimberly discusses the realisation that led her to launch Hear Me Roar Studios as a dedicated, welcoming environment for women, queer, and gender-expansive creators. Describing her role as "part music producer and part empowerment," Kimberly explains why a successful recording session often requires the skills of a therapist—building deep trust, reading an artist's hesitation, creating a space where it is safe to say "no," and ultimately helping vocalists access a level of confidence and power they never knew they possessed.

Key Topics

• Studio environment barriers and solutions
• Using reference tracks to communicate sound
• Empowering artists through language and collaboration

Chapters

00:00 Empowering Artists in the Studio

02:57 Navigating Emotions and Reference Tracks

06:03 How to Communicate Vision and Sound

10:17 How to Keep the Vision You Want for A Song

14:34 Co-Creation Rather Than Blind Trust

18:15 Bringing Out the Best in Reserved Artists

22:15 Navigating Creative Pressure

22:41 Preparing for A Studio Session

25:13 Mastering Timing and Rhythm

26:46 Prep for Voice and Lyrics Performance

30:26 No Music Theory Knowledge? - No Problem

31:36 The Journey to Empowerment in Music Production

34:21 The Studio As A Safe Space for Connection and Creation

36:41 Get In Touch With Kimberly

Mentions:

Kimberly’s Studio: hearmeroarstudio.com

Follow her on Instagram: instagram.com/hearmeroarstudio/

Kimberly’s Free Guide to Recording Vocals From Home: https://hearmeroarstudio.com/free-vocal-guide

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, life coach Tom Fogg joins a relaxed, conversational, yet profound exploration of the the relationship between truth, authenticity, and creativity. Rather than a structured interview, this is an open dialogue centred on the concept of truth and its foundational role in maintaining creative wellbeing. They discuss practical techniques for embracing self-compassion, overcoming creative blocks, and living in harmony with the natural flow of life, inspired by philosophies like Taoism.

The conversation is honest, personal and explores psychologically grounded ways to navigate the inner critic we all have, moving past superficial solutions to examine what happens when we face our internal voices with absolute honesty.

This episode offers an unhurried, substantial look into the psyche, making it a perfect match for those who appreciate meaningful, psychological exploration rather than a bit of light listening.

Key Topics

• The relationship between truth and creativity
• The three capabilities of autonomy: awareness, spontaneity, intimacy
• Techniques for entering flow state and overcoming creative blocks
• The role of self-compassion and acceptance in artistic work
• The influence of Taoism and the Tao Te Ching on creative practice

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Authenticity and Creativity

05:21 Navigating the Creative Process

13:06 How Creativity Can Be Stifled as a Child

18:25 Overcoming Stigmas Around Being an Artist

21:56 Our Thoughts as Self-inflicted Suffering

26:30 Allowing Creativity Rather Than Forcing It

31:41 Compassionate Living and Acceptance

33:06 Navigating Creative Blocks

36:33 Lower Your Expectations But Never Your Standards

42:24 Confronting the Inner Critic

44:56 The Power of Sharing Your Truth

49:16 The Courage to Share

Resources Mentioned:

The Games People Play - Book by Eric Burn

The Creative Act - Book by Rick Rubin

The Tao Te Ching - Book (translation by Stephen Mitchell)

Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway - Book by Susan Jeffers

Dr. K’s The Healthy Gamer podcast - Episode title: Your Standards are Way Higher Than They Should Be

The Blind Boy Podcast

Tetragrammaton - Rick Rubin’s Podcast

Get in contact with Tom: Instagram - instagram.com/tomfoggcoach/

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

What happens when the music stops and it is time to talk to the crowd? For many musicians and vocalists, bridging the gap between songs is the most nerve-racking part of the show. In this episode of Curious Vocalists, Grace sits down with comedian, author, and comedy workshop leader Logan Murray—who has taught the likes of household names like Greg Davies and Rhod Gilbert.

Logan shares invaluable insights into transforming performance anxiety into focused energy, treating the audience like your mates, and tapping into the power of the conversational afterthought. Whether you are an introverted performer looking to connect more naturally or someone looking to inject a bit of playful humour into your set, this conversation explores how to get out of your own head and step into the flow zone.

To learn more about Logan's work, books, and upcoming creativity workshops, visit his regular comedy hubs or check out his sessions at the Museum of Comedy in London.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Stage Nerves and Performance Anxiety

04:54 Connecting with the Audience: Treating Them as Friends

08:12 The Art of Conversation in Performance

11:31 Rehearsed vs Spontaneous

12:14 The Importance of Playfulness in Performance

17:13 Workshop Techniques To Find Your Inner Idiot

21:05 All Comedy is A Reaction

23:01 The Impact of Nutrition on Performance

25:39 How much to Prepare for Audience Interaction

27:31 Logan's Various Comedy Workshops

29:03 How to Turn Fear into Playfulness

34:58 The Balance of Stupidity and Cleverness in Comedy

39:31 The Importance of Play in Art and Performance

39:59 Exploring Logan's Creative Ventures

42:02 The Quickfire Round

Mentions/ Resources:

Info on Logan’s comedy courses: https://loganmurray.com/news

Logan’s Book: Get Started in Stand-Up Comedy - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Started-Stand-Up-Comedy-Teach-Yourself/dp/1473607183

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In the second half of this special two-part series on the compelling speaking voice, the focus shifts from the physical foundations of voice to the art of delivery and leadership presence. This episode explores how to move beyond a monotone or repetitive delivery to find a voice that commands authority while maintaining a genuine connection with your audience.

Through practical exercises and mindset shifts, the discussion covers:

• Pitch Variety and Emotional Truth: Learning to use intentional inflection to avoid the repetitive patterns of news reporting and ensure your message lands with gravitas.
• Projection and Pacing: How to fill a room without shouting by utilising supported breath and forward resonance.
• The Power of the Pause: Embracing silence to create tension, show self-assuredness, and allow your audience to lean in.
• The Inner Game: Mindset tools to shift from self-judgment to a focus on service, allowing for a magnetic combination of vulnerability and strength.

Whether you are introducing a song on stage, leading a rehearsal, or presenting in a professional setting, these tools are designed to help you integrate your technical skills with a grounded, authentic presence.

Chapters

00:00 Foundations of Authentic Speaking

00:36 Exploring Pitch and Variety

06:38 Projection and Pacing Techniques

16:31 The Power of Pauses

21:29 Building Confidence and Stage Presence

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this first instalment of a special two-part series, Curious Vocalists shifts the spotlight from the singing voice to the speaking voice. While musicians spend countless hours perfecting their melodies, the words spoken between songs—introductions, workshop instructions, and audience gratitude—are just as vital for establishing authority and authentic connection.

Grace guides you through the essential physical pillars of a confident stage presence: posture, breath, and resonance. This episode is designed to be interactive, featuring three specific exercises you can perform in real-time to reset your posture, anchor your breath for steady delivery, and find your natural resonant "home" voice. Learn how to stop speaking from the throat and start commanding the room with a tone that is both warm and authoritative.

In this episode, you will:

• Learn a 45-second posture reset to instantly feel more powerful on stage.
• Discover how to avoid speaking on residual air by using a supported breath anchor.
• Practice finding your resonant chest tone to move away from nervous, thin, or throat-based speaking.
• Explore the difference between performing a persona and delivering your natural, unencumbered voice with intention.

Featured Exercises:

• Exercise 1: Posture Reset (03:31)
• Exercise 2: Breath Anchor (07:46)
• Exercise 3: Finding Your Resonant Home Voice (19.43)

Takeaways

• Good posture and diaphragmatic breathing are essential for confident speaking.
• Recording yourself helps identify and correct breathing habits.
• Engaging the body through exercises like yoga and handstands reduces tension.
• Your speaking voice starts in your body, not your throat.
• Hum and vocal warm-ups stimulate nitric oxide and improve resonance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Confident Speaking

01:25 Engaging the Diaphragm and Body Awareness

06:41 Exercises for Better Breath Support

11:11 Why Handstands Help Your Voice

14:38 Tone, Resonance and Authenticity

Resources

Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer: Nervous System Regulation with Emily Kennedy-Barnes - Curious Vocalists Episode 25 For The Anxious Performer

More info on the health benefits of humming, nitric oxide and its roles in your health - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVoGbaq8xos

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

https://www.instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

http://www.facebook.com/gracehancockmusician

In this episode of Curious Vocalists, RTT Practitioner and Hypnotherapist Laura Paton joins the show to de-mystify the world of hypnotherapy. She clarifies that the process is far from the freaky stereotypes of swinging clocks or losing consciousness; instead, it is a grounded method of relaxing the nervous system where the individual remains fully in control. The conversation explores how subconscious beliefs dictate our confidence and how to handle those moments when you feel like you’re in so much of a negative ‘funk’ that you BECOME the funk! Laura shares specific somatic techniques to shift out of those heavy mental states, offering performers practical ways to move through self-doubt and find their most authentic voice.

Key Topics

• What is Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) and how it works
• The role of subconscious beliefs in self-identity and confidence
• Techniques for overcoming performance anxiety and self-doubt
• The importance of self-acceptance and somatic practices in healing
• How RTT can help creatives and performers find their authentic voice

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Laura Paton

03:47 Exploring Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT)

12:01 The Process of RTT and Client Experience

13:56 How Unpicking Past Experiences Can Help Your Identity as a Performer

18:45 Navigating Identity and Self-Worth in Creativity

26:50 The Impact of COVID-19 on Personal Growth

30:02 Finding Courage and Passion in Creativity

31:40 Turning a Negative Funk into Creative Flow

40:48 Future Projects and the Power of Audio Therapy

Resources/ Mentions

Laura Paton, RTT Hypnotherapist on Instagram - instagram.com/rtthypnotherapist/

Tree of Life Centre in Hove - www.tolcentre.com/

Muswell Health Centre in North London - www.muswellhealth.uk/

Dr Gabor Mate 3-7-8 breathing

Marisa Peer - the founder of the Rapid Transformational Therapy (RTT) method - https://marisapeer.com/

About the Host

Grace is a seasoned singer-pianist, vocal coach and composer. Over the past decade she has dedicated her life to music and creativity, performing aboard luxury cruise ships across the world and composing for theatre and short films. Her original compositions have been recognised by festivals such as the Paris Film Awards and Only the Best International Film Awards. She strives now to determine how to cultivate authentic expression in music and the importance of it for mental health and human connection.

Contact Method

gracehancockmusic@gmail.com

www.gracehancockmusic.com

instagram.com/gracehancockmusic

facebook.com/gracehancockmusician