How to Choose the Right Vocal Coach for Your Genre
By Roxie Francis | Founder, I Heart My Voice
Let’s get real:
Not all vocal coaches are created equal.
And even fewer truly understand what it takes to be a pop artist in today’s music world.
If you’ve ever sat in a voice lesson thinking, “This feels more Broadway than Billboard,” or “Why does my coach want me to sing opera when I’m trying to sound like Tate McRae?” — this post is for you.
Whether you're just starting out or you're in the messy middle of artist development, finding the right vocal coach for your genre is a game-changer.
Here's how to spot the right fit — and why it matters more than you think.
First, Why Genre-Specific Coaching Matters
Every genre speaks a different vocal language.
A pop singer’s voice needs to move people in 30 seconds or less. You’re not just aiming for technical perfection — you’re chasing vibe, emotion, nuance, connection. It’s about style, phrasing, timing, texture — all those subtle things that make a Billie, a Sabrina, or a Dua instantly recognizable.
If your coach doesn’t understand pop as a genre — or worse, tries to coach you like a jazz singer or Broadway lead — you’ll start to feel stuck, overcorrected, or like you're singing in someone else’s voice.
And that’s not the vibe. Ever.
What to Look for in a Pop-Savvy Vocal Coach
Here’s what to pay attention to when choosing your next (or first) coach:
✔️ They specialize in pop vocal style, not just technique
Anyone can run you through scales. But can they teach you how to slide into a note like Olivia Rodrigo or phrasing that lands emotionally like SZA? That’s the difference.
✔️ They coach emotion and delivery, not just pitch
Pop music is personal. If your coach isn’t asking you about what the lyric means to you, you’re missing the entire point of the performance.
✔️ They know what today’s industry expects
This isn’t 1997. Your voice lives on TikTok, Reels, Spotify — not just on stage. You want someone who gets what now sounds like, and where the industry is heading.
✔️ They help you discover, not just mimic
You’re not here to sound like someone else. You’re here to become unforgettable in your own way. Your coach should pull you out of your voice — not push someone else in.
The Mistake I See Most Often
So many talented pop singers come to me after spending years with the wrong type of coach.
They’ve got solid breath support, a pretty vibrato, maybe a couple of songs under their belt. But no idea who they are as an artist — and their voice doesn’t feel fun anymore. It feels like pressure.
Sound familiar?
That’s usually a sign that you’ve outgrown generic training… and you’re ready for something genre-aligned, identity-driven, and career-focused.
What Happens When You Work With a Coach Who Gets Pop
Let me tell you what we do differently at I Heart My Voice.
When someone joins our Pop Vocal Coaching Program, we don’t just teach them how to sing a song.
We help them:
Develop their own sound — one that’s authentic, stylized, and emotionally resonant
Learn how to sing for the studio, stage, and screen
Build confidence for content creation, auditions, and live gigs
Create a voice that supports their brand, vision, and message
It’s personal. It’s powerful. It’s pop — and it’s built for right now.
❤️ Final Word from Roxie
If singing is your life’s purpose, you deserve a vocal coach who meets you at your level of calling.
Pop is one of the most dynamic, vulnerable, and ever-changing genres — and you need a coach who honors both the art and the artist.
Whether you’re just stepping into your voice or you’re prepping for your next single, trust your gut. If something feels off, it probably is.
When you’re ready to grow with a coach who gets you and your goals, I’d love to meet you.
Let’s find the voice only you were born to have.
FAQs: Choosing The Right Vocal Coach
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Look for a coach who understands pop phrasing, emotional delivery, and current vocal trends. They should help you develop your unique sound, not just teach technique.
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Not always, but it can slow your growth. A coach who doesn’t understand your genre may train you with the wrong style or focus on skills that don’t support your goals.
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Yes, the right coach will guide you to discover your tone, style, and vocal identity. Genre-specific coaches are trained to shape voices for commercial success.
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If you’re aiming for a pop career or to release pop music, working with a coach who specializes in pop can help refine your phrasing, delivery, and emotional dynamics.
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If your growth has stalled, you’re not excited to train, or your coach doesn’t “get” your sound or goals, it might be time to explore a more aligned coaching option.
Ready to work with a vocal coach who gets your pop sound?
Apply now for your first session with our Pop Vocal Coaching team. We’ve helped artists go viral, book national gigs, star on network singing shows, and most importantly — find their voice.
Let’s make some magic.
With heart,
Roxie
At I Heart My Voice, we help singers unlock their full potential through online singing lessons, vocal coaching, and artist development programs.
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to go pro, our award-winning team has guided singers to Broadway, Disney, Nickelodeon, major labels, and viral success.
