Analyzing Voice Clues in The Masked Singer Betting
The Masked Singer is a hugely popular singing competition show where celebs perform covers of famous songs while wearing elaborate costumes that conceal their identities. Part of the fun for viewers is trying to guess the identity of the masked singers based on small clues given in video packages and the singers’ performances.
Some of the craziest singer costumes include the following:
- The Baby Ailen from Season 4
- The Jester from Season 6
- The Squiggly Monster from Season 4
- The Deer from Season 1
- The Serpent from Season 4
Voice clues can be very helpful when trying to figure out who is under the mask. Here are some tips for analyzing voice clues when betting on The Masked Singer:
Listen for Distinctive Vocal Qualities
Pay close attention to the masked singers’ voices and listen for any distinctive vocal qualities that could point to a particular singer. For example, a raspy or gritty vocal tone could indicate a rock or country singer. Bret Michaels was unmasked in Season 12, after singing Avhy Breaky Heart, Sweet Home Alabama, and Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door, among others.
Powerful belting and runs point to a diva or Broadway star. Gladys Knight appeared as The Bee in Season 1 while Michael Bolton appeared as Wolf in Season 9.
A soft, breathy tone may reveal a younger pop star. The age, genre, vocal range, and quality of the voice can all provide clues as to the singer’s identity.
Compare Voices to Celebrities
As you listen to the masked singers, try to compare their voices to those of celebrities you know. The celebrity under the mask could simply be using their normal singing voice with little alteration. So, if a voice sounds similar to Gwen Stefani or Jared Leto, it may actually be them. Take note of any similarities between the masked singers and famous vocalists to narrow down your guesses.
Listen for Speech Patterns and Accents
Pay attention to how the masked singers talk, not just how they sing. Speech patterns, accents, and vocal inflections while speaking can identify nationality, region, and other details about the celebrity. For instance, a strong southern accent points to a country music star. A British or Australian accent reveals an international celebrity.
Australian NFL star Jordon Mailata shocked viewers when he was unmasked as the Thingamabob on Season 7 of the US version of the Masked Singer. Fans had no idea Jordan had hidden vocal talents away from the football pitch. His rendition of Ed Sheeren’s Perfect was described as ‘spine tingling’.
Even slight vocal tics or familiar speaking styles may remind you of a particular famous voice.
Identify Genre Clues in the Vocals
The musical genre and style of singing can provide clues about a performer’s identity and background. For example, a masked singer that tackles pop, R&B, and soul classics likely has experience in those genres. Powerful Broadway-style belting suggests a theater performer. Masked singers comfortable with rap, hip hop, or beatboxing have an urban music background. Think about what genres and vocal styles come most naturally to each singer.
Consider Vocal Range and Ability
Pay attention to vocal control, range, breathing, and ability to determine if the masked singer is an amateur or professional. Celebrities known for singing will likely exhibit excellent technique, while those with just moderate musical experience may sound strained. A wide vocal range spanning octaves points to a seasoned pro. Weak breathing control or staying in a limited range indicates an untrained singer. The level of vocal prowess can help identify if the celebrity is mainly known for singing or not.
Listen for Vocals That Don’t Match Appearance
Sometimes the costumed appearance of a masked singer doesn’t seem to match the voice. For example, a petite female character singing with a deep, booming voice or a large imposing costume hiding a gentle soprano. This disconnect between look and vocals can mean the celebrity has an appearance, gender, or background vastly different from their voice.
Follow These Tips for Smarter Bets
By carefully listening for all of these vocal clues – quality, accent, genre, range, ability – you can make much smarter predictions on the identities of the masked singers. Compare their voices to those of known celebrities and singers. And pay attention when the voice doesn’t seem to fit the character.
Analyzing the voices on The Masked Singer takes time and focus but is one of the best ways to catch the clues needed to place informed bets on who is under each mask.