In this session, I provide a comprehensive guide to vocal warm-ups tailored for singers on the road. Emphasizing the importance of gentle warm-ups, key techniques such as SOVTs, resonance placement, and the necessity of quick warm-ups before sound checks. I also share valuable resources for maintaining vocal health while touring, including products from Vocal Zone.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Vocal Warm-Ups
00:56 New Chapter
01:26 Key Techniques for Effective Warm-Ups
08:22 Exploring Resonance and Placement
15:18 Vocal Health and Support Resources
Takeaways
Focus on gentle warm-ups to wake up the voice.
SOVTs are essential for safe vocal warm-ups.
Resonance placement is crucial for vocal alignment.
Quick warm-ups are beneficial before sound checks.
Trust your voice and listen to its needs.
Movement and flexibility are more important than perfection.
Use tools like straws for effective warm-ups.
Vocal health products can aid in maintaining voice clarity.
Warm-ups can be done in short time frames.
Resources are available for singers on the road.
Feel free to check out the line of amazing Vocalzone Products HERE.
Be sure to follow @rockitvocalstudios on social for more tips and to keep up to date with all the latest info.
Join the mailing list for offers, and updates as well as exclusive info.
How to Keep Your Voice Healthy During Festival Season
Festival season is a blast — but for singers, speakers, and performers, it can be brutal on your voice if you’re not careful. In this episode, we’re covering 5 essential tips to help you protect your vocal cords and keep performing at your best all summer long.
What You’ll Learn:
Why hydration is your secret weapon (and how to do it right)
The quick warm-ups and cool-downs that keep your cords healthy
How to rest your voice even in noisy, busy festival environments
How to handle dry air, dust, smoke, and other outdoor challenges
Why knowing when to say no can save your voice for the next gig
Whether you’re playing a single show or a back-to-back festival run, these practical strategies will help you stay strong, sound amazing, and avoid burnout.
Next up: In Part 2, we’re heading backstage — I’ll share my favourite quick warm-ups you can do behind the curtain, plus smart ways to protect your voice when you’re chatting with fans or working a noisy greenroom.
Get ready with Your Backstage Pre Show Schedule.
Check out the line of products from Vocalzone Here.
Access the My Voice Health eBook Here
In this episode I dig into the beautiful tones and dynamics used in this song by an artist who is local to me, by the name of Maryiah Stokes.
The minute I heard the song Biggest Fan I immediately fell in love with the melody and the vocal on it, and had to learn it.
I figured before I dig in further myself, I'll share the observations along the way and show you how I pick out different techniques and styles from a song while putting them into action.
Thank you so much Mariyah for creating this masterpiece!
I hope this is of value to anyone writing songs and singing their hearts out.
Be sure to follow Mariyah Stokes on instagram, https://www.instagram.com/mariyastokes
and check out the song on Spotify.
Starting your day with a tired, sluggish voice?
Whether you’re heading into a long day of talking, teaching, singing, or shouting over noise — your voice needs support before you hit go.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through a simple, gentle morning vocal warm-up that sets your voice up for success — so you can speak and sing with clarity, power, and confidence all day long.
🎤 Perfect for:
✅ Touring artists doing early soundchecks, or radio promo, interviews etc
✅ Voice teachers and classroom educators
✅ Flight attendants in loud aircraft cabins
✅ Servers working busy restaurants or bar shifts
✅ Podcasters and speakers prepping for a big recording
✅ Anyone using their voice all day in a demanding environment
What we’ll cover:
✔️ Gentle vocal wake-ups to ease into phonation
✔️ Resonance and articulation boosters
✔️ Vocal “stretch” without strain
Wherever your voice is taking you today — this quick episode will help you arrive ready to rock.
🎧 Press play, warm up with me, and give your voice the head start it deserves.
Let’s connect on Instagram: @rockitvocalstudios
Need ongoing voice support? Learn more www.rockitvocalstudios.com
In today's episode I'm joined by Country Music artist Josh Stumpf.
He shares about his launch in the industry, what it's like to tour the country to promote music to radio, settling in with his new label and being ready for all the opportunities that lie ahead.
You can follow Josh on Instagram at @joshstumpfofficial
https://www.instagram.com/joshstumpfofficial/
His latest single Highway Money is now streaming on all platforms.
Pro vs Passion: What Really Sets Top Singers Apart + Vocal Health Insights from Cutting-Edge Training
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on some of the most advanced vocal training I’ve been diving into lately – including my work with Mindy Pack, my certifications in Applied Neuroscience and the Voice, and Trauma and the Voice. These trainings are transforming how I approach vocal coaching, vocal health, and performance stamina – and I can’t wait to share some of the key takeaways with you.
🎤 PLUS – a big question from one of my clients:
“What’s the difference between singers who make it, and those who don’t?”
Whether you're a professional artist, a dedicated hobbyist, or somewhere in between, we dig deep into the mindset, habits, and behind-the-scenes realities that separate the pros from the outliers who never quite break through.
You’ll learn:
What I’m learning from the world’s top voice experts
How trauma and the nervous system affect vocal performance
The most critical habits and qualities of successful singers
How to develop your voice like a high-performance athlete
Why talent alone isn’t the deciding factor in success
This episode is for serious singers who want to go beyond just sounding good – it’s about building resilience, consistency, and confidence for the long game.
🎧 Listen now and tag me with your thoughts on Instagram @ rockitvocalstudios
The Singer & Songwriters Retreat is Filling UP!
Join us in invermere, BC, Canada July 24-29
All the details are available at www.rockitvocalstudios.com/retreats
Big thanks to the sponsor of our songwriting mentor sessions Craig Senyk Initiatives
Shout out to The 97 South Song Sessions Challenge Sponsors
And our lunchtime fuel for the week from Smokehouse 93!
🌟 If you loved this episode, leave a review and share it with your fellow vocalists! Reviews and ratings help other singers like YOU find this podcast!
Thank you as always for listening!
Today I'm throwing it back to my conversation with Robert Ott in celebration of the upcoming 97 South Song Sessions on April 12th at the O'Rourke Family Estate, Lake Country BC.
This years event will feature
Kim Mitchell
Marc Jordan
Lee Thomas Miller
And Wendell Mobley
We throw all the way back to episode 62 where Robert shares insights of his experience in the music industry and in depth knowledge of music publishing specifically, making for a thoroughly fascinating conversation about how someone's love of music and songs can lead to sharing songs throughout the world and the launch of Ole, one of the world’s largest independent music publishing, recorded music and rights management companies.
Robert and his wife have teamed up to produce the 97 South Song Sessions, a music performance event in British Columbia’s picturesque Lake Country and growing international wine destination region. Shows feature award winning, multi-genre Songwriters and Recording Artists sharing the stage ‘in the round’, entertaining the audience with tales of the creative journey that inspired their hit songs which they perform throughout the evening.
This years event is taking place April 12 at the O’Rourke Family Estate, Lake Country BC, Canada.
Tickets are available now!
https://97southsongsessions.com/
In this episode, we explore the three states of growth: receiving, transmitting, and resisting. Are you open to learning and abundance? Are you stepping into your power to share what you’ve learned? Or are you unknowingly resisting opportunities and keeping yourself stuck? We’ll dive into how to recognize which state you’re in, what might be holding you back, and practical ways to shift into alignment with your personal and professional growth.
Big shout out to Kate Northrup and her Podcast PLENTY.
Big thank you to Kathy Heller for her insights and stories.
What’s the quickest way to level up your voice?
The answer depends on your learning style!
In this episode, we’re breaking down the different paths to reaching your vocal goals—whether you thrive in 1:1 coaching, group programs, independent study, or immersive experiences like retreats.
The pros and cons of different learning styles:
✅ 1:1 coaching – When you need personalized, rapid progress.
✅ Group learning over time – How consistency and community can push you further.
✅ Independent study – The benefits and challenges of going at your own pace.
✅ Immersive retreats – Why stepping away from daily life creates the ultimate breakthrough.
Why Immersion is the Fastest Track to Success
I share why retreats are a game-changer for vocalists, songwriters, and performers and have been life changing for me too—How combining expert coaching, deep practice, and creative inspiration in a way no other learning format can.
Join Me in Invermere for the Ultimate Vocal Retreat!
This retreat is designed for singers ready to transform their skills, performance, and career with hands-on coaching from industry pros. You’ll get:
✨ Exclusive VIP coaching to refine your voice & artistry.
✨ Songwriting feedback and 1 on 1 coaching with Aaron Goodvin & a masterclass and personalized insights from Nashville publisher Victoria Goodvin.
✨ Training in stage presence, performance confidence, and career strategy from yours truly (Emma Harding).
✨ A supportive, inspiring space to connect, grow, and create.
📢 Limited Spots Available – Secure your place with just a $299 deposit. Payment plans are also available.
Apply to join us using this link! As I mention in the episode, I want to make sure this is absolutely the right investment for you. So the application helps me to learn a bit about your experience so that we know it's a good fit.
Please feel free to book a quick call to chat about it or email me if you have questions!
🎟 Learn more about the Invermere Retreat in beautiful BC Canada.
📩 DM me on Instagram with any questions!
💬 What’s your fastest track to vocal success? Let’s chat—send me a message or share your takeaways from today’s episode!
Thank you to Liz for this request for a vocal cool down after leading her show choir, and also for days when her voice is tired from teaching kids at school!
This cool down will help anyone after a show, long vocal training session, rehearsal or a hard day at work that requires you to use your voice in loud environments like a classroom, gym, restaurant etc.
Please reach out if you have any requests for topics or training sessions and be sure to check out the free trial of Rockit's Voice Coaching Club over on Patreon.
Your membership supports the growth of this podcast and the development of your vocal skills too! Win Win!
To learn about private coaching or to join one of my retreats, visit the website!
In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Noeline Hofmann, a singer-songwriter from rural alberta who's career is one to be noted.
Noeline shares her journey—from playing small-town venues to recording her songPurple Gas with Zach Bryan—and offers a raw, honest look at the highs and the challenges of navigating the music industry as a young artist.
We dive into how she got started, what its like to be on the road, and the importance of building a strong, trustworthy team.
Noeline opens up about the pressures of the industry, the joy of making music, and the strategies she’s using to maintain her voice as well as her mental wellness along the way.
Whether you're an aspiring musician or just love a behind-the-scenes look at an artist’s journey, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and real talk about what it takes to carve out a successful career in music.
Check out Noeline'sInstagram Page Here.
Today's episode celebrates the Jan 24th release of Jess' new single 'Life For Me', and is packed full of valuable insights about the music industry, keeping your voice healthy and training as a singer.
We talk about writing in Nashville and the evolution as an artist with many influences and goals.
Jess shares about stepping into management and working with artist Savannah Jade (See episode #145)
There's also a lot of vulnerable truth about what it takes to train as a singer, and Jess shares her suggestions on how to embark on building a great relationship with your voice and your voice coach!
You can listen to Life For Me Here
Follow Jess on Instagram and TikTok
and check out her website here too.
In this episode I talk with country artists Savannah Jade.
Her new single, More Like It is out January 17th, as a follow up to her debut single He's The One.
We talk about her journey from Opera to Country and how she is now managed by one of her own favourite country singers, Jess Moskaluke.
More about Savannah Jade can be found here.
Check out her new single Here.
This episode is a little bit of a throwback, as I'm sharing the first episode of the Weekly Vocal Workout, in which we look at the foundations of singing and all of the elements that are important to maintain a strong, healthy and consistent voice.
In this guided session you'll dig into placement, pitch, power and range as well as take a good look at singing in a strong and healthy way.
This is great for beginner singers as well as experienced vocalists, as its a wonderful refresher on your vocal foundation.
I hope you enjoy this session, and remember you can join the Weekly Vocal Workout at any time.
The High Performance Coaching Club offers access to the weekly vocal workout as well as live training with me twice a month. You can sign up here!
The first 7 days are always free to try, and there is no long term commitment for any of these programs. Cancel any time.
WELCOME!
If you are just starting your vocal journey and want to learn more about singing and your voice, you are in the right place!
This episode has 5 top tips to start singing in a healthy way, while learning how to think of your voice as your 'instrument', free your range and access higher notes without restriction pushing or forcing.
You’ll learn about:
Breath
Placement
Using sounds
Warming Up
And how to access your confidence.
Please join me as we start the online beginner singers program January 9th!
The class runs for 8 weeks and includes 30 minutes of live training from 5:30- 6pm Mountain Standard Time each week.
There will also be time for Q&A after each session to make sure you are doing everything correctly and to help you get the best from the course.
There are also other options for other levels of singers
The Weekly Vocal Workout is always open to join! For just $15cad per month you’ll get access to weekly downloadable training sessions.
The High Performance Coaching Club is for more experienced singers wanting to develop their skills and maintain or launch careers in the industry. Join any time with no long term commitment. First 7 Days are always free!
Check out the How To Sing - Beginner Singer Masterclass here.
It’s the final day of the 12 Days of Vocal Magic! Today, we’re celebrating the power of your voice to spread joy and inspire others. Whether through music, kind words, or storytelling, your voice has the ability to create connections, uplift spirits, and make the world a brighter place.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
🎤 How the human voice conveys emotion and spreads positivity.
🎶 Practical ways to bring joy through singing and community involvement.
💡 The ripple effect of small acts of kindness using your voice.
🌟 How to carry the magic of this series into your everyday life.
Podcast Show Notes for Day 12: Spreading Joy with Your Voice
Episode Title:
🌟 Day 12: Spreading Joy with Your Voice
Episode Description:
It’s the final day of the 12 Days of Vocal Magic! Today, we’re celebrating the power of your voice to spread joy and inspire others. Whether through music, kind words, or storytelling, your voice has the ability to create connections, uplift spirits, and make the world a brighter place.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
🎤 How the human voice conveys emotion and spreads positivity.
🎶 Practical ways to bring joy through singing and community involvement.
💡 The ripple effect of small acts of kindness using your voice.
🌟 How to carry the magic of this series into your everyday life.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Your voice is a tool for connection and spreading joy—on stage, online, or in everyday interactions.
✅ Small moments of vocal kindness can have a big impact.
✅ Use what you’ve learned in the 12 Days of Vocal Magic to inspire and uplift others.
Thank you so much for joining me for today’s episode!
I’m so excited to kick off the new year with new programs for you!
The doors are now open for the VIP Coaching Program for January.
The 8 week courses include live weekly training with me as well as downloads, workbooks and a strategic plan to help you reach your vocal goals.
There are two options:
The Weekly Vocal Workout is always open to join! For just $15cad per month you’ll get access to weekly downloadable training sessions.
The High Performance Coaching Club is for more experienced singers wanting to develop their skills and maintain or launch careers in the industry. Join any time with no long term commitment. First 7 Days are always free!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!! See you in the new year! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR LISTENING!
In today's episode we talk about why rest is important.
Whether it's vocal rest, mental rest, physical rest or after show rest, it's important to take time for yourself.
Thank you so much for joining me for today’s episode!
I’m so excited to kick off the new year with new programs for you!
The doors are now open for the VIP Coaching Program for January.
The 8 week courses include live weekly training with me as well as downloads, workbooks and a strategic plan to help you reach your vocal goals.
There are two options:
The Weekly Vocal Workout is always open to join! For just $15cad per month you’ll get access to weekly downloadable training sessions.
The High Performance Coaching Club is for more experienced singers wanting to develop their skills and maintain or launch careers in the industry. Join any time with no long term commitment. First 7 Days are always free!
Join me for live training twice a month and get downloadable audio training, access to special workshops as well as the entire catalogue from the Weekly Vocal Workout. Only $50 Cad per month!
Thank you as always for supporting my podcast! It means so much.
See you tomorrow for our special warm up episode!!
Turning your passion for music into a sustainable career is both exciting and challenging. On Day 10 of the 12 Days of Vocal Magic, we’re diving into the essential strategies for monetizing your music. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your income streams, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you succeed.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎧 Why monetizing your music is crucial for building a sustainable career.
🎤 Key revenue streams, including streaming, live performances, and merchandise.
💡 How to grow your fanbase and turn them into loyal supporters.
📜 The importance of protecting your income and rights through copyrights and royalties.
📈 Long-term strategies for scaling your music career.
If you want to dig deeper into your career as a singer / songwriter, check out the next Rockit Retreat in Invermere, BC, Canada, July 24th - 29th 2025. Click here for the application form!
Episode Description:
Improvisation isn’t just for jazz singers—it’s a powerful skill that can elevate your vocal performance, boost your creativity, and deepen your connection to music and your audience. On Day 9 of the 12 Days of Vocal Magic, we’re exploring the art of vocal improvisation and how it can transform your singing.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎶 What vocal improvisation is and its role in different genres.
🎤 The benefits of improvisation, from enhanced creativity to stronger audience engagement.
🎧 Techniques and exercises to get started with improvising your vocals.
💡 Tips for overcoming the fear of improvisation and building confidence in your unique voice.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned performer, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to unleash your vocal creativity.
Check out my conversation with Natalie Weiss on the Rock Your Voice Podcast for more inspiration.
Episode Description:
Recording high-quality vocals is an essential skill for any singer or artist, whether you’re laying down tracks for an album, a demo, or a collaborative project. On Day 8 of the 12 Days of Vocal Magic, we’re diving into the techniques, tools, and strategies you need to record vocals that sound polished and professional.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎤 How to prepare yourself and your space for a successful recording session.
🎧 Tips for setting up equipment like microphones and interfaces for optimal sound quality.
🎶 Mic techniques and vocal delivery strategies for capturing your best performance.
💡 Post-recording essentials, including editing and communicating your artistic vision.
Whether you’re working from a home studio or a professional setup, this episode has actionable advice to elevate your vocal recordings.
What You’ll Take Away:
✅ Confidence in your ability to record vocals that stand out.
✅ Knowledge of the tools and techniques that can enhance your sound.
✅ Practical steps for preparing and delivering a top-notch vocal performance.
Purchase my studio prep guide here, or visit my instagram page, and send me a note to get it send to you for free!
Reach out to info@rockitcalgary.com if you have any questions or would like to book a session to prep for your next recording session.
