Do “Rate My Voice” Websites Help or Hurt Singers?

If you’re wondering, “Am I a good singer?”, you may be tempted to get advice and input from the Internet via one of the many “rate my voice” type of websites. Here, Liz T. explains the pros and cons of going this route…

Many singers are curious to know what kind of feedback they’ll receive if they post a video or clip of themselves singing on a “rate my voice” website, such as midomi.com, singist.com, and even YouTube. I’m here to tell you the pros and cons of these websites and how they can help and hurt your search for feedback.

Pros

• You’ll be getting unbiased opinions from people whom you’ve never met before and therefore are likely to be more honest than your best friend or a family member!
• It’s good experience to get out there and test the waters if you don’t have much experience performing, recording, or making videos (especially if you live somewhere where those opportunities are difficult to find). With these websites, you can upload a video and have an immediate, brand-new audience right in front of you. Some singers may be shy performing live, but this is a way to get comfortable with putting your own voice out there and hearing the reactions you might receive.

Cons

• Many of the people who rate these websites do not have formal vocal training. They may be able to offer you advice on presentation, performance, or song choice, but I would not upload a video to one of these sites looking for instruction on proper vocal technique.
• Many of these websites advertise “$1,000 Cash Prize” or “Instant Recording Contract”. Make sure you do your research before putting your music on one of these websites to make sure they are legitimate. If they are asking you to put down any money, I would not suggest doing so. Rather, spend your money on proper voice lessons with an instructor who can teach you about vocal technique and performance.

So, all in all, I would recommend a “rate my voice” website if you are looking to grow a fan base, promote a video, network with other young singers, or get a feel for the general public’s taste or critique in music. However, I would not use such sites for professional vocal training or guidance. If you’re asking yourself, “Am I a good singer”?, I would recommend studying with a voice teacher who has had training in technique and who has professional performance credits to assist you in your own technique and performance skills. Just as if you were sick and thinking about seeing a doctor to diagnosis you, the same applies to singing!

Remember, everyone has his or her own opinion, and you don’t have to listen to everyone’s advice. Still, be open, and remember that you, yourself, are the best judge of your vocal performance!

Liz T. teaches singing, acting, and music lessons in Brooklyn, NY, as well as online. She is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music with a B.M in Vocal performance and currently performs/teaches all styles of music including Musical Theater, Classical, Jazz, Rock, Pop, R&B, and Country. Learn more about Liz here!

Photo by Felipe Neves