Can sing but can't sing a song

[Johnny Mac]

The problem seems to be accurate pitch memory rather than breath or range limitations.

If I play the melody on piano or guitar she sings fine. If I switch back to chords, she immediately sings flat and quickly looses it completely, switching to drone mode.

ahaaa, well why didn't you say so in first place. Then she needs to PRACTICE, and also needs to LISTEN to herself while she sings. I think it can be fixed pretty fast, if persistent.

I agree. She must be able to hear herself. Try turning down the volume on your music when your singing in the car and you will hear what i mean!  :lol:

[mikeluke]

Few suggestions - assuming that you really want her as your singer....

Monitors - in-ear would help her to get instant feedback...

She is trying too hard....

Try a different song - I have some songs that are a complete mental block - fine in the car - $hite at rehearsals!

If all that fails, get a new singer!  One of my mates is in a band that had a singer/keyboard player - they eventually realised after a lot of audience feedback that she had to go.... Just could not sing!

[FernandoDuarte]

The problem seems to be accurate pitch memory rather than breath or range limitations.

If I play the melody on piano or guitar she sings fine. If I switch back to chords, she immediately sings flat and quickly looses it completely, switching to drone mode.

Normal... it's harder to find the tone when you play a chord instead of the note itself.... practice is the way... and listening what she is singing... try to record some things, could be good