Episode 81

Pretty is a Matter of Opinion

Published on: 17th July, 2026

The “pretty” singing you've been praised for might not be the only kind of singing you're capable of. It might not even be the best singing you're capable of.

In this episode, I explain

  • What’s appealing about the breathy sound of pop recordings, and why we want to emulate it.
  • Why that sound isn’t sustainable long term (and what it’s doing to your body).
  • Why you shouldn’t be intimidated when you make a new sound that your ears find odd, but feels really good in your body.
  • How focusing on functionality can unlock the real potential of your unique voice.

If you'd like to join the waitlist for my group class, The Self-Sustaining Singer, email me at letters@mvmusik.com with GROUP in the subject line. I'll make sure you receive all the registration information as soon as it's ready.

Michèle Voillequé is a singer and a voice teacher living in Berkeley, California.

Yes, you can sound better! Opt-in for a free video training on my website: https://mvmusik.com

A transcript of this episode is available at mvmusik.com/blog/cant-wait-to-hear-you-episode-81. You can subscribe to Can’t Wait to Hear You wherever you get podcasts. If you have a question about your voice or how you’re using it, please email letters@mvmusik.com. To learn more about Michèle or to subscribe to her newsletter, visit mvmusik.com.

Our music is thanks to Katya and Ada.

The show is edited by K.O. Myers at Particulate Media.

Transcript

A transcript of this episode is available at https://mvmusik.com/blog/cant-wait-to-hear-you-episode-81.

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About the Podcast

Can't Wait to Hear You
with Michèle Voillequé
Does singing feel so difficult, painful, or embarrassing that you hide it from the people you love? Does speaking feel scratchy, exhausting, breathless, or forced?

It doesn't have to be that way. Your voice can sound and feel amazing, even in stressful situations. You just need to know how to use it.

Singer and voice teacher Michèle Voillequé teaches the art and science of sounding and feeling the best you can. If you love the sound of your ideas, but hate the sound of your voice, be sure to subscribe to Can’t Wait to Hear You.