Top 22 Slang For Sing – Meaning & Usage

Everyone loves a good sing-along, but did you know there’s a whole world of slang for singing that can add some flair to your vocal performances? From belting out tunes to hitting those high notes, we’ve got you covered with a list of trendy terms that will have you singing in style. Get ready to level up your singing game and impress your friends with this fun and informative guide!

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1. Belt it out

To sing with great energy and volume. This phrase is often used when someone is singing with a lot of emotion or power.

For example, “She really belted it out during her solo.”
A performer might be encouraged to “belt it out” during a high-energy song.
Someone might say, “I love it when he belts it out during concerts.”

2. Croon

To sing in a smooth and gentle manner, often with a focus on the lyrics and emotional delivery. This term is often associated with romantic songs or ballads.

For instance, “He crooned a love song to his partner.”
A singer might be described as having a “crooning voice.”
Someone might say, “I enjoy listening to him croon old jazz standards.”

3. Warble

To sing with a slight wavering or trembling in the voice. This term is often used to describe a bird’s song, but can also be applied to human singing.

For example, “The bird warbled a beautiful melody.”
A singer might be praised for their “warbling voice.”
Someone might say, “I love how she warbles during the chorus of that song.”

4. Serenade

To sing or perform music for someone, often as a romantic gesture. This term is often associated with someone singing to their love interest.

For instance, “He serenaded her outside her window with a guitar.”
A person might say, “I want to serenade my partner on our anniversary.”
Someone might ask, “Have you ever been serenaded before?”

5. Jam out

To play or sing music with a lot of energy and passion. This term is often used when someone is really getting into the music and enjoying themselves.

For example, “They were jamming out on stage during the concert.”
A person might say, “I love jamming out to my favorite songs in the car.”
Someone might describe a live performance as, “They really jammed out during their set.”

6. Harmonize

Harmonizing is the act of singing along with someone else or a group, creating a pleasing blend of musical tones and chords.

For example, in a choir performance, the singers harmonize with each other to create a rich and balanced sound.
In a duet, the two singers might harmonize by singing different notes that complement each other.
A vocal group might practice harmonizing by singing scales together, focusing on blending their voices.

7. Busk

Busking refers to the act of performing music or other entertainment in public spaces, usually on the street, in exchange for donations or tips.

For instance, a singer might set up a small stage on a busy street corner and sing for passersby.
A guitarist might busk by playing popular songs and inviting people to listen and contribute.
A group of musicians might form a band and busk together, creating an impromptu concert for anyone who happens to be nearby.

8. Jam session

A jam session is an informal gathering of musicians who come together to play music, often improvising and experimenting with different styles and genres.

For example, a group of friends might get together in someone’s garage and have a jam session, taking turns playing different instruments and creating music on the spot.
Musicians at a jazz club might participate in a jam session, taking solos and trading musical ideas with each other.
A jam session can also refer to a recording session where musicians collaborate and create music without a pre-determined structure or arrangement.

9. Vocal gymnastics

Vocal gymnastics describes the use of intricate and acrobatic vocal techniques while singing, often involving impressive vocal range, agility, and control.

For instance, a singer might perform vocal gymnastics by hitting high notes, executing fast runs, and performing complex vocal ornaments.
In a singing competition, a contestant might showcase their vocal gymnastics to impress the judges and the audience.
A vocal coach might teach their students vocal gymnastics exercises to improve their vocal skills and flexibility.

10. Vocal chops

Vocal chops refers to a person’s singing skills or abilities, particularly their technical proficiency and talent in singing.

For example, a singer with impressive vocal chops might be able to hit high notes, sustain long phrases, and perform challenging vocal runs.
In a music review, a critic might praise a singer for their exceptional vocal chops and expressiveness.
A singing teacher might assess their students’ vocal chops and provide guidance on how to improve their singing technique.

11. Vocal power

This term refers to the ability to sing with strength, control, and range. It is often used to describe singers who have a commanding presence and can hit high notes with ease.

For example, a judge on a singing competition might comment, “That contestant really showcased their vocal power in that performance.”
A fan might say, “I love listening to artists who have incredible vocal power.”
A vocal coach might advise a student, “Focus on developing your vocal power by practicing proper breathing techniques and vocal exercises.”

12. Perform

This term encompasses the act of singing or entertaining an audience through music. It can refer to a live performance, a recorded performance, or even a casual jam session.

For instance, a concertgoer might say, “I can’t wait to see my favorite artist perform live.”
A musician might announce, “I’ll be performing at the local coffee shop this Friday.”
A friend might ask, “Can you perform that song you wrote for us?”

13. Rock out

This term is often used to describe a lively and energetic performance, where the singer or musician is fully immersed in the music and giving it their all.

For example, a concert review might state, “The band really rocked out on stage, and the crowd loved every minute of it.”
A fan might say, “I always feel so energized when I rock out to my favorite songs.”
A musician might encourage the audience, “Come on, let’s rock out together!”

14. Trill

This term is commonly used in vocal music to describe a technique where a singer rapidly alternates between two adjacent pitches. It adds a dynamic and ornamented effect to the singing.

For instance, a vocal coach might say, “Try incorporating a trill in that section of the song for some added flair.”
A singer might demonstrate, “Listen to how I trill between these two notes.”
A music student might ask, “Can you teach me how to trill properly?”

15. Groove

This term refers to the ability to sing or play music with a strong and infectious rhythm. It often involves finding and locking into a musical groove, where the performer feels in sync with the beat and creates a cohesive sound.

For example, a band member might say, “Once we found the groove, the song came together beautifully.”
A listener might comment, “I can’t help but groove along to this catchy tune.”
A music producer might advise, “Focus on finding the groove of the song before adding any additional elements.”

16. Duet

A duet is a performance or musical composition that features two singers or musicians. It is a collaboration between two individuals who sing or play together.

For example, “They sang a beautiful duet at the talent show.”
In a discussion about music, someone might say, “I love listening to duets because of the harmonies.”
A music critic might write, “The duet between the two artists showcased their vocal chemistry.”

17. Acapella

Acapella refers to singing without any instrumental accompaniment. It is a style of vocal music where the melody and harmonies are produced solely by the human voice.

For instance, “They performed an acapella version of the song at the concert.”
During a music competition, a judge might comment, “Your acapella performance was impressive.”
A member of a choir might say, “We’re practicing an acapella arrangement for our next concert.”

18. Vocal riff

A vocal riff is an elaborate and intricate melodic phrase or pattern sung by a singer. It involves improvisation and showcases the singer’s vocal skills.

For example, “She added a vocal riff to the end of the song, impressing the audience.”
In a discussion about vocal techniques, someone might say, “Vocal riffs are often used to add flair and creativity to a performance.”
A vocal coach might instruct a student, “Try adding some vocal riffs to make the song your own.”

19. Lay down a track

To lay down a track means to record a song in a studio. It refers to the process of capturing and creating a musical recording.

For instance, “They spent the whole day laying down tracks for their new album.”
During a music production workshop, a presenter might say, “Today, we’ll learn how to lay down tracks using professional recording software.”
A recording artist might post on social media, “Excited to head to the studio tomorrow to lay down some new tracks!”

20. Screech

Screech is a slang term used to describe a high-pitched and piercing vocal sound. It often refers to a loud and shrill singing or vocal performance.

For example, “The singer hit a screech during the chorus of the song.”
During a karaoke session, someone might comment, “Watch out for that screech in the song, it’s a tough one.”
A music critic might write, “The screech in the singer’s performance added an edgy and intense element.”

21. Let it rip

This phrase is used to encourage someone to sing with full force or enthusiasm. It implies that the person should let go and give it their all.

For example, during a karaoke session, someone might say, “Come on, let it rip! Show us your singing skills!”
In a music competition, a judge might comment, “You really let it rip on that high note. Great job!”
A friend might say, “Don’t hold back, just let it rip and sing from your heart.”

22. Pipe up

This phrase means to start singing or speaking loudly and confidently. It suggests that the person should speak up or sing with more volume.

For instance, in a choir rehearsal, the conductor might say, “When it’s your part, don’t be afraid to pipe up and make your voice heard.”
During a group sing-along, someone might encourage others by saying, “Come on, everyone, pipe up! Let’s make some noise!”
A teacher might tell a shy student, “Don’t be afraid to pipe up and share your beautiful singing voice with the class.”