Here are my tips for singing and singing while sick;

If you are feeling sick, the best thing to do is cancel your gig or performance; however, if this is not possible here are some tips for singing if you are sick.

REST REST REST: If you have a gig in the evening then get as much rest as you can the night before and the morning before. Your voice is your instrument. If you are tired then your vocal muscles will not be able to produce their best possible sound.

HYDRATION BEFORE THE GIG: Drink room temperature or even warm water as often as you can to keep your throat muscles hydrated. This will keep your voice from being startled or stressed by cold temperatures. Try to avoid coffee or tea as they will dry your voice out. If you have one, try using a humidifier while you sleep and even consider adding some eucalyptus oil to the water (just a few drops) as it will help open your airways.

HYDRATION DURING THE GIG: Avoid drinking anything with bubbles or anything cold during your performance. Bubbles tend to make you burp and make you feel bloated and cold water will contract the vocal muscles which will lead to muscle tension. I personally use a mix of warm water in a thermos with a slightly unusual mix of;

1 tsp of baking soda

1 pinch salt

1 tsp of honey

Also avoid alcohol, as it dries your throat. However if you must have a tipple, then try a spirit that will warm the throat like whisky or rum (neat)

NO SMOKING: If you can’t quit the cigarettes then at the very least, try not to smoke for the few days leading up to the gig.

DON’T TALK TOO LOUD: In fact, try not to speak at all before or during the gig asides from singing. If we have a long multi-set gig then I will sometimes sit backstage or away from the crowds while the rest of the band meets with the audience and fans. I’m not being snobby - it’s to save my voice. Also crowds often have a smoker amongst them and it’s best to avoid cigarette smoke.

THROAT SPRAYS, THROAT LOZENGES AND TEAS: Sprays such as vocal-eze can help, but consult your doctor to make sure it is safe for you and that you don’t have any allergic reaction. Lozenges such as Vocalzone can help, but consult your pharmacist for the right lozenge for you. Vocalzone also have a great selection of vocal teas which can relax and warm the throat. I use Vocalzone as they ship worldwide.

SET-BREAKS: If you are playing a long gig, then try shortening your sets to include breaks. For example rather than playing 2 x 45 minutes sets, then switch to 3 x 30 minute sets. Your voice is your most prized instrument. Like any instrument it needs to be looked after to increase its longevity.