Afternoon, everybody, I just wanted to ask this question because I am going to learn to sing classical South Asian music from a coach very soon. I don't normally sing in front of people, because put plainly, I can't do it well. People say I sound like a boy most of the time. Is there any way I can sound more soft and "sugary"?
I'm 12 years old, by the way.
Also, is it true that it's best to sing on a (near) empty stomach?
There is no need to sound soft an sugary. Your voice is your own and I believe you will do much better if you take it where it is poised to go. Usha Uthup (formerly known as Usha Iyer), has a rich, contralto voice that can be mistaken for male. It didn't stop her from becoming one of the foremost singers in India. In a land where movie playbacks dictate success, for her to eschew that route, sing in English and still be phenomenally successful says something.
Never be afraid to sing your heart out, whether in the bathroom or in front of people. You were given a voice. Release it. Let it soar.
"Also, is it true that it's best to sing on a (near) empty stomach?"
It prevents burping, that's all it does, and even that can be controlled after a while. I've sung in public after quaffing pints of beer, not a burp in sight.
Go for it. I look forward to hearing your wildly successful record soon.