Understanding Frank Sinatra’s Great Phrasing in Singing

Frank Sinatra's legendary status as a vocalist is often attributed to his unparalleled phrasing when singing. This unique ability to convey emotion and connect with the audience goes beyond simply sticking to the written lyrics. Sinatra's mastery of phrasing defines his concerts, recordings, and overall legacy in the music industry.

Timing and Rhythm

First and foremost, Sinatra's sense of timing was unparalleled. He had a unique rhythm that allowed him to stretch or compress phrases, adding a personal touch that made each performance feel natural and conversational. Sinatra's phrasing included stretching notes and even starting or stopping half a beat off the true note, which further enhanced his ability to convey the essence of the lyrics.

Emphasis and Expression

One of the most notable aspects of Sinatra's singing was his ability to emphasize certain words or syllables, thereby conveying the mood and message of the lyrics. His expressive delivery was key in connecting with the audience on an emotional level, allowing him to resonate with listeners and tell a compelling story through his performances. This was evident in his rendition of classic songs, where each word and each syllable was used to evoke a specific emotion.

Breath Control

Another essential element of Sinatra's phrasing was his incredible breath control. He was able to sustain notes and phrases effectively, giving him the freedom to shape his performances dynamically. This allowed him to create suspense or resolution through his breath, which in turn impacted the perception of the lyrics. For example, Sinatra could hold a long note and then seamlessly transition to the next line with no break in breath, a skill he honed through his unique training methods, including swimming underwater to improve his lung capacity.

Interpretation and Personal Touch

Sinatra brought his own interpretation to songs, often adding subtle variations in his phrasing that made each performance unique. This personal touch helped him to transform songs into memorable experiences for his audience. His ability to bring authenticity and relatability to the lyrics he sang was one of his standout qualities as a vocalist. Each performance by Sinatra was a testament to his ability to understand and convey the underlying emotions and themes of the lyrics, making his phrasing feel both meaningful and impactful.

Phrasing Beyond Lyrics

Phrasing goes beyond just the words. As a singer, Sinatra was a great actor, able to deliver the lyrics in a way that resonated with both the music and the intended emotion. This is particularly challenging in the context of a song, where rhythm and timing play crucial roles. Words must not only make sense musically but also convey their intended meaning effectively. While some lyrics might lack literal sense, a great vocalist will still communicate the song's intent, making their performance stand out.

Not all singers focus solely on the musical aspect; some view lyrics merely as a collection of words or syllables to be lovingly delivered. However, the best singers strike a balance between musicality and effective communication. They are not just delivering the song but telling a story, making each word and note count towards conveying the song's message. This is what sets great singers apart from good ones.

Conclusion

Frank Sinatra's great phrasing is a testament to his exceptional talent as a vocalist. His ability to stretch, compress, emphasize, and breathe freely on the breath not only showcased his technical skills but also his emotional connection to the lyrics. Sinatra's unique interpretation of songs and his mastery of phrasing allowed him to create unforgettable performances that continue to inspire and move listeners to this day.