Crooning

Crooning is a style of singing characterized by a soft, intimate, and sentimental delivery, often with a low vocal register. It emphasizes the emotional connection with the listener, employing smooth phrasing, gentle vibrato, and careful enunciation. Crooners typically employ a conversational tone, whispering or murmuring the lyrics, often accompanied by lush orchestration or simple accompaniment. This style flourished particularly in the early to mid-20th century, capturing the hearts of audiences with its romantic and melancholic qualities.

Crooning meaning with examples

• Frank Sinatra's signature sound was characterized by his crooning voice, delicately navigating the nuances of love songs. He used a gentle sway with the microphone creating a sense of closeness. His rendition of 'Strangers in the Night' is a prime example, evoking feelings of longing and romance through his emotive delivery. His crooning style became legendary and established him as a musical icon.
• As the rain fell outside, the singer began crooning a mournful ballad. His voice, warm and velvety, filled the cozy room, drawing the listener in. The quiet intimacy, perfect for a smoky jazz club, created an ambiance of reflection. The words, dripping with heartache, seemed to mirror the wet and gloomy day.
• In a scene from an old Hollywood film, the leading man can be seen crooning a sweet melody to the leading lady. With a suave demeanor, he poured his heart into the lyrics. The subtle gestures, the way he looked into her eyes, all created a feeling of romance. This cinematic presentation highlights the crooning technique's powerful romantic impact.
• The vintage radio played a recording of Bing Crosby crooning his hit song. His calm and soft tones set a mood of ease. The slow tempo and careful phrasing were classic techniques. This style helped make him a superstar, showing how to connect with his audience on an emotional level.