The Unbalance of Covers: Why Female Vocalists' Songs are Harder to Cover by Males

When it comes to the genre of song covers, there’s a notable imbalance in the gender dynamics between covers of female and male vocalist songs. This article delves into the various factors that contribute to this discrepancy, from vocal range to the depth of the song’s message. We will also explore the personal rules and preferences of a hard rock/metal vocalist when it comes to covering songs.

Understanding the Vocal Range and Melody

One of the primary considerations when deciding to do a cover of a song is the vocal range. For instance, a song sung by a woman with a contralto voice presents a unique opportunity for another vocalist, particularly if that vocalist has a similar vocal range. A tenor and a contralto share overlapping ranges, making it a suitable match for a cover. However, if the original song features a vocalist with a very unique or specific voice, it can be challenging to find an appropriate fit for a cover.

For an imperfect analogy, imagine adapting a novel from a first-person perspective to a third-person narrative. While it’s possible to do so, the essence and intimacy of the original piece might be lost. Similarly, with music, the authenticity and spirit of a song are often tied to its original vocalist, particularly one with a distinctive voice.

Message and Topic of the Song

Shifting focus from vocal range to the message and topic of the song is just as crucial. The theme of the song can resonate deeply with the listener, making it more or less likely to be chosen for a cover. For example, if a female vocalist's song primarily deals with themes of love, longing, and empowerment, the song might be harder to adapt for a male version. The emotion and depth that a female vocalist brings to the song can be challenging for a male vocalist to replicate accurately.

We can draw an analogy here to translating literature. While it’s possible to translate a text, the nuances of the original author’s tone and emotional context might not be captured by a different translator. The same applies to music; the emotional intensity and nuances of a song can be difficult to convey when the perspective changes significantly.

Rules and Preferences of a Hard Rock/Metal Vocalist

With a personal touch, I will present the guidelines and rules that a hard rock/metal vocalist follows when it comes to choosing a song to cover. My criteria are rather strict, and here’s a breakdown of them:

Outside of my genre: Covering songs within the same genre as one's own is typically out of the question. For a hard rock/metal vocalist, covers from the same genre often don't fit the performance style or the intended audience.

Less well-known: Choosing a cover that is less well-known or not an anthem of the original artists often provides a fresh perspective. While this rule can be occasionally bent, particularly for anthemic songs, it’s more about finding that unique song that stands out.

Bring something new: A cover should offer a new experience, not just a copy of the original. Minimal changes in arrangement, instrumentation, or delivery can make a significant difference in the final product.

No changing the words: If the original song’s words are good, they remain good. Incorrectly changing “he” to “she” can alter the meaning and context of the song, making it unsuitable for a cover.

Using these rules, I have a few personal favorites in mind that I would be more than willing to cover. For instance, Alison Moyet's emotionally charged songs such as “All Cried Out” and “Getting Into Something” perfectly fit these criteria and would certainly invoke a fresh interpretation within a different genre or context.

Case Study: Alison Moyet's "All Cried Out" and "Getting into Something"

Alison Moyet's songs often touch on themes of love, longing, and empowerment, making them perfect for a reinterpretation. Take for example "All Cried Out," a song that explores deep emotions and delivers a powerful message about vulnerability and resilience. My singing style being that of hard rock/metal, a cover of this song could translate its emotional depth into a raw, powerful delivery.

"Getting Into Something" follows a similar trajectory, emphasizing themes of empowerment and introspection. The raw, emotional depth of these songs aligns with what a hard rock/metal vocalist can bring to the table, making them compelling candidates for a new perspective.

In conclusion, the challenge of covering a female vocalist's song is multifaceted, involving vocal range, song message, and personal preferences. However, when done right, these covers can bring new life and depth to timeless songs, often leading to a richer musical experience.