Three Lessons Every Musician Can Learn from the Global Sensation - Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo is a powerhouse of talent and an inspiration to many established and aspiring musicians. From the day I saw her in ‘Harriet’ soulful Negro Spiritual ‘Farewell’ to the marching rocky soundtrack ‘Stand Up’, I felt really drawn to her artistry. With her extraordinary vocal range, compelling stage presence, and unmatched, noticeable commitment and dedication to her craft, the star has become a beacon of excellence in the music industry, one that I believe everyone should be proud of. I decided I’d write about this with the help of AI to articulate my thoughts on her journey as it inspires me daily.
Here are three valuable lessons every musician can learn from her journey. Cynthia Erivo’s career is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, authenticity, and versatility.
1. Commitment to Craft
Cynthia Erivo's dedication to her craft is evident in the confidence and versatility we experience in her performances. Whether she is on stage or in the studio, on a live show or in a movie, she embodies it, bringing an intense focus and commitment to excellence. It not only displays the importance of honing skills, practicing diligently, and continually striving to improve. This woman’s journey underscores that success in music requires more than talent; it demands relentless dedication and effort.
For instance, her portrayal of Celie in the Broadway revival of The Color Purple illustrates her commitment. Her rigorous preparation process included extensive vocal training and character study, allowing her to deliver powerful performances night after night.
Key Points:
Practice Regularly: I know it’s hard but nothing can take that away, it does take practicing consistently as part of your routine to improve and refine your skills.
Seek Feedback: Be open to constructive criticism from mentors and peers to grow as an artist.
Stay Curious: Always be willing to learn and explore new techniques and styles.
2. Authenticity and Emotional Connection
One of Erivo's strengths is her ability to connect with her audience through authentic and emotive performances. She understands the power of storytelling and uses her voice to convey deep emotions, creating a lasting impact on listeners. Musicians can learn from her ability to be genuine and vulnerable, which can transform a good performance into a memorable one.
Her performance of “Stand Up” from the film Harriet, which she co-wrote, is a testament to her ability to evoke emotion. The song, filled with raw passion and honesty, resonated deeply with audiences, showcasing her knack for creating a powerful emotional connection.
Key Points:
Tell Your Story: Use music as a medium to share your personal experiences and connect with your audience.
Be Vulnerable: Don’t be afraid to express genuine emotion in your performances.
Engage with Your Audience: Build a rapport with listeners through eye contact, body language, and interactive performances.
3. Versatility and Adaptability
Cynthia Erivo's career spans multiple genres and platforms, showcasing her versatility as an artist. From Broadway to film and music, her ability to adapt and excel in various environments is commendable. Musicians can learn the importance of versatility, which allows them to explore different musical landscapes and reach broader audiences.
Her role as Aretha Franklin in the television series Genius: Aretha is a perfect example. Erivo seamlessly transitioned between acting and singing, capturing the essence of the legendary singer and earning critical acclaim.
Key Points:
Expand Your Repertoire: Experiment with different genres and styles to broaden your musical horizons.
Embrace Change: Be open to new opportunities and challenges that come your way.
Collaborate: Work with artists from different backgrounds to gain new perspectives and skills.
If there is one artist that we have seen lately just blow through like a wind, unapologetically, professionally and powerfully, it is Cynthia Erivo. I want to embody these practices, and I am super sure that the growth will be evident. If what you want is to enhance your artistry and create a more profound impact with your music, Cynthia Erivo’s career is a testament to what can be achieved with dedication, authenticity, and versatility.
