Why You’re Not Improving as a Singer (And How to Fix It)

Have you ever felt like you're practicing but not getting anywhere? Like no matter how many scales you sing or how many songs you attempt, your voice isn’t improving the way you want? You're not alone!

Excerpt
Have you ever felt like you're practicing but not getting anywhere? Like no matter how many scales you sing or how many songs you attempt, your voice isn’t improving the way you want? You're not alone!
Do not index
Do not index
Ready to Publish
Ready to Publish
Publish Date
Feb 8, 2025
Tags
Have you ever felt like you're practicing but not getting anywhere? Like no matter how many scales you sing or how many songs you attempt, your voice isn’t improving the way you want? You're not alone!
Many singers get stuck in what I like to call The Vocal Plateau - where progress feels slow, frustrating, and discouraging. But don’t worry! The good news is that there’s always a way forward. Let’s break down the five biggest reasons singers struggle and how you can break through to the next level.

1. You're Practicing the Wrong Way

Singing for hours every day won’t make you better if you’re reinforcing bad habits. Instead of just running through songs, focus on intentional practice.
Try this: Instead of singing a song from start to finish, pick one problem area (a high note, a tricky run, breath support, etc.) and work on it specifically. Record yourself, analyse what’s happening, and adjust!

2. You’re Ignoring Your Breath

Your voice is powered by your breath. If you don’t have control over it, your singing will always feel unstable.
Try this: Place one hand just above your belly button and produce some bursts of breath of a “vvv” sound. The belly should move inwards and upwards on the sound. Then, be mindful to relax and release the muscles to let the air back in. The repeat and explore different “bursts” (i.e. 2 short pulses and 4 longer holds, or 3 quick bursts and 1 long hold, etc).

3. You’re Not Using Vocal Straw Exercises (Seriously, Why Not?!)

Straw phonation (aka singing through a straw) is one of the best ways to warm up, reset your voice, and improve vocal balance. It helps reduce strain, improve airflow, and smooth out vocal breaks.
Try this: Use a singing straw (like Resono Pro, wink wink 😉) and vocalise through it for a few minutes before singing. You’ll feel an instant difference in how your voice responds!

4. You Haven’t Found the Right Songs for Your Voice

Singing songs that don’t match your current vocal ability can make progress feel impossible. Finding the right repertoire can make all the difference.
Try this: Choose songs that sit comfortably within your range but have one or two slightly challenging moments to stretch your skills. (Need help? My Evita platform can help you find new repertoire tailored to your voice!)

5. You’re Stuck in the Same Vocal Routine

If you’re always doing the same exercises and warm-ups, your voice might be getting bored! Your vocal muscles need variety to keep developing.
Try this: Switch up your warm-ups every few weeks. Play with different vowel shapes, dynamics, and tempos. Challenge yourself with new styles and vocal textures.

Final Thoughts

If you’re feeling stuck, don’t be discouraged. Every singer goes through this! The key is to be intentional, switch things up, and use the right tools. Keep working smart (not just hard), and you’ll start noticing real vocal breakthroughs.
Need additional help? Have singing lessons with me: orenboder.com
 

Start loving Mondays again.

Sign up to receive our Monday morning portion of curated articles, resources, and voice tips to help get you inspired, master and love your voice, and unleash your vocal potential. Look forward to emails again. Join 15,000 readers every Monday

Subscribe
Oren Boder

Written by

Oren Boder

Founder of Rayvox