Mastering the "Celtic Soul" Style
Released on the seminal album Too-Rye-Ay, "Old" captures Dexys Midnight Runners at their most expressive. While not as vocally acrobatic as some rock anthems, this song presents a different challenge: conveying deep emotion through very specific, idiosyncratic phrasing. Kevin Rowland's delivery is part singing, part pleading, and part conversation.
To sing this successfully, you need to abandon "pretty" technique in favor of raw, authentic expression. The track relies heavily on the interplay between the vocals and the punchy brass section.
AI Coach Tip: Articulation is Key
Kevin Rowland often enunciates consonants sharply while letting vowels bend emotionally. Our analysis shows that users who over-smooth the lyrics score lower. Keep the diction crisp and rhythmic.
Phase 1: The Conversational Verse
The verses in "Old" are delivered almost like spoken word but with a definite melody. The range sits comfortably in the mid-range for Tenors and high Baritones. The challenge here is rhythm.
The Trap: Rushing the lyrics. The words come fast, but they need to sit in the pocket of the groove. Focus on the downbeats and let the syllables flow naturally toward them.
Phase 2: The Brass-Supported Chorus
When the horns kick in, the vocal energy must lift. You aren't necessarily singing much higher, but you need more "squillo" (brightness) in your tone to cut through the mix. This requires engaging your abdominal muscles for support.
- Tone Color: Think "bright" and "forward." Place the sound in the mask of your face.
- Dynamics: Step up the volume from mezzo-piano to forte instantly when the chorus hits.
Phase 3: The Emotional "Cry"
Rowland uses a technique often called a "sob" or "cry" in the voice. This involves a slightly lowered larynx and engaging the vocal fry slightly at the beginning of phrases. It creates that yearning, desperate sound characteristic of the genre.
Be careful not to overdo this, or it becomes a caricature. It should feel like an emotional crack in the voice, not a deliberate affectation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The melody generally tops out around G4, though ad-libs can go slightly higher. It is very accessible for most male voices without needing falsetto.
Don't be afraid to sound "imperfect." Rowland's charm is in the grit and the raw emotion. Practice speaking the lyrics with high emotion first, then add the pitch.
Yes. Because the range isn't extreme, it's a great song for beginners to practice rhythm, phrasing, and emotional delivery without straining their vocal cords.
