MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best across a wide range of subjects, starting today Mariah Carey will teach a class on how to use the voice as an instrument.
For the first time ever, MC will bring members into the Butterfly Lounge, her mobile studio, to show how they can use their voice not only to sing but also to write and produce melodies, lyrics and instrumentation that blend genres and break barriers. Members will be the first to hear the reimagined version of “The Roof” with award-winning artist Brandy, and see Mariah in action as she directs Brandy on background vocals. Her class is now available exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 150+ instructors with an annual membership.
With a five-octave range and soaring whistle tones, Mariah Carey reigns as the “Songbird Supreme.”
In her class, MC reveals how the voice can be used as an instrument on its own and how it can be an extension of the pen as a writer, making it possible for anyone to be a music producer. From communicating melodies to a string ensemble to turning personal stories into iconic soundtracks, Mariah will provide an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at her music-making process.
“I’ve never let cameras in when I am creating—not when I’m writing, and especially not when I’m singing,” Mariah stated. “But now I’m taking MasterClass members into my studio to show them how they can write and produce music using their voice and become anything they want to be as long as they create, re-create, reimagine and reinvent.”
Taking members into the Butterfly Lounge as she works on a reimagined version of her beloved hit “The Roof” with award-winning artist Brandy ,Mariah will examine the importance of background vocals in making music, and how to build a song with a choir of voices versus a wall of sound. Mariah will teach members how to use their personal experiences as inspiration for writing music and telling a story. Sharing how Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Part II” inspired her writing on “The Roof,” she will show members how to listen beyond genres and use samples as building blocks. MC will also reflect on the challenges she faced in the music industry and provide tips for navigating the industry and maintaining creative control. Members will leave the class inspired to find their own voice, whether that means advocating for their own creative desires or honing it as an instrument.
7 Video Lessons (1 hrs 44 min)
1. Meet Your Instructor: Mariah Carey
2. Producing With Your Voice
3. Lyricism: Write About the Realness
4. Writing With Samples
5. Background Vocals, Part 1 (featuring Brandy)
6. Background Vocals, Part 2
7. Instrumentation and Emotion
8. Taking Care of Your Voice
9. Surviving in the Music Industry
