Legit vs. Belt: Understanding the Difference Between Singing Styles

Belt vs legit: what’s the difference?

As singers, we often come across terms like "legit" and "belt" when discussing vocal styles. These two terms refer to distinct approaches to singing that are commonly used in different genres of music. Understanding the difference between these singing styles can help singers develop the versatility and flexibility needed to excel in various musical genres. In this blog post, we will explore the key characteristics of legit and belt singing styles and discuss how they differ from each other.

Legit Singing Style

The term "legit" is short for "legitimate," and it refers to a style of singing that is commonly used in classical music, musical theater, and other theatrical performances. Legit singing is characterized by a clear, pure tone with a focus on proper vocal technique, breath control, and precise diction. Legit singers typically aim for a refined, polished sound that emphasizes the beauty of the melody and lyrics.

One of the key features of legit singing is the use of classical vocal training techniques, such as proper posture, breath support, and vowel placement. Legit singers often sing with a more formal, controlled tone, using a wide vocal range that includes both chest voice (lower register) and head voice (upper register). Legit singers may also utilize vibrato, a slight and controlled variation in pitch, to add expressiveness to their singing.

Legit is a bit of a misnomer, as it implies other types of singing aren’t legitimate ways of singing. This is ABSOLUTELY NOT THE CASE. Legit is shorthand jargon to describe a certain sound, not a condemnation of other singing styles.

Belt Singing Style

On the other hand, "belt" is a term used to describe a powerful, resonant style of singing that is commonly used in contemporary musical genres such as pop, rock, and musical theater. Belt singing is characterized by a strong, powerful tone with a focus on emotion, intensity, and projection. Belt singers typically aim for a more raw, gritty sound that conveys emotion and energy.

One of the key features of belt singing is the use of chest voice, which refers to the lower register of the voice that produces a deeper, richer tone. Belt singers often use a chest-dominant vocal placement and may employ techniques such as twang (a specific vocal resonance) to create a strong, forward vocal projection. Belt singing also often involves the use of vocal fry (a vocal effect produced by adding tension to the vocal folds), which can add a gravelly texture to the voice.

Understanding the Difference

While legit and belt singing styles share some similarities, such as the importance of breath control and vocal technique, they also have key differences that set them apart. Legit singing is typically characterized by a more formal, controlled tone with a focus on classical vocal training techniques and refined vocal qualities. On the other hand, belt singing is characterized by a more powerful, raw, and emotive tone with a focus on chest voice and vocal projection.

It's important to note that both legit and belt singing styles have their unique strengths and are suited for different genres of music. Legit singing is often used in classical music, traditional musical theater, and other formal performances, while belt singing is commonly used in contemporary musical genres such as pop, rock, and musical theater productions with more modern and edgy vibes.

Incorporating Both Styles

As a singer, developing versatility and flexibility in your vocal technique can be incredibly valuable. Incorporating elements of both legit and belt singing styles into your singing can allow you to adapt to different musical genres and styles, and expand your vocal capabilities.

Working with a qualified vocal coach who understands the nuances of legit and belt singing styles can be beneficial in developing the necessary vocal techniques and skills for both approaches. A vocal coach can help you understand the proper breath control, vocal placement, and vocal qualities needed for each style, and guide you in practicing and incorporating both legit and belt techniques into your singing. I can help with that.

Understanding the difference between legit and belt singing styles is essential for singers looking to excel in various genres of music. While legit singing is known for its refined, polished tone, and classical vocal training techniques, belt singing is characterized by its raw, powerful, and emotive tone with a focus on chest voice and vocal projection.

To become a versatile singer, it's beneficial to incorporate elements of both legit and belt singing styles into your vocal practice. Working with a qualified vocal coach can provide guidance and training in developing the necessary techniques for both approaches, helping you expand your vocal capabilities and adapt to different musical genres.

So, whether you're a classical singer looking to add some contemporary flair to your performances, or a pop/rock singer looking to refine your vocal technique, understanding the difference between legit and belt singing styles can greatly benefit your singing journey.