There’s a good chance you’re shy like I was.
Well, not so much shy as lacking self-confidence.
The bad part about this whole singer-songwriter thing is that singing is literally in the job title. And it’s difficult sing while lacking confidence, especially starting out.
So what you’re going to need is an empty house.
This will be when you’re in your teenage years, but I suppose it will work at any age. You just have to be old enough that your parents will allow you to stay home alone.
Then, as soon as everyone has left, I suggest locking the doors for added security. The last thing you want is to traumatize your mother by walking in on you singing Worlds Apart by Jars of Clay at the top of your lungs. Keep in mind, you’re in junior high and haven’t said anything to her in the last eight months. The juxtaposition will be troubling.
Yeah, I know. Locking the door seems suspicious, but that’s part of the deal. Be ok with the fact that your family thinks you locked it for more obvious junior-high-boy reasons. At this point in your life, that reason is better than singing.
Next, put your headphones on and crank the volume. You want it loud because you want to feel immersed, like you’re on stage singing to thousands of people. You also want it loud so you can’t hear yourself singing.
Not hearing yourself singing? That, my friend, is where your confidence begins.
Let’s save “recording and hearing yourself” for another day.