In the realm of avant-garde and experimental music, few artists have pushed the boundaries of vocal expression as boldly as Catherine Ringer. As the co-founder and lead singer of the iconic French band Les Rita Mitsouko, Ringer has long been celebrated for her eclectic style, blending punk, electronic, and cabaret influences. One of the most intriguing aspects of her vocal prowess is her use of scat singing, a technique that has become a signature element of her performances. This article delves into the art of scat singing as practiced by Catherine Ringer, exploring its historical context, her unique approach, and its impact on contemporary music.
The Origins of Scat Singing
Scat singing, a form of vocal improvisation using nonsense syllables instead of lyrics, has its roots in the early 20th-century jazz scene. Pioneers like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald popularized the technique, using it as a way to mimic the sound of instruments and create spontaneous melodies. Scat became a hallmark of jazz, symbolizing freedom and creativity within the genre. Over time, scat singing transcended jazz, influencing a wide array of musical styles, from bebop to rock and beyond.
Catherine Ringer’s Unique Approach to Scat
Catherine Ringer’s incorporation of scat singing into her work is a testament to her versatility as an artist. Unlike traditional scat, which often adheres to jazz conventions, Ringer’s scat is deeply intertwined with her punk and electronic sensibilities. Her scat passages are not mere improvisations but carefully crafted elements of her songs, adding layers of texture and emotion.
Ringer’s scat is characterized by its raw energy and playful unpredictability. She often alternates between melodic phrases and guttural sounds, creating a dynamic contrast that keeps listeners engaged. Her ability to seamlessly transition between sung lyrics and scat syllables showcases her exceptional vocal control and artistic intuition.
Notable Examples in Les Rita Mitsouko’s Discography
One of the most striking examples of Ringer’s scat singing can be found in Les Rita Mitsouko’s 1986 album The No Comprendo. Tracks like “C’est Comme Ça” and “Andy” feature her scat passages, which serve as both rhythmic hooks and emotional outbursts. These moments are not just embellishments but integral parts of the songs’ structure, highlighting Ringer’s role as a co-composer and innovator.
Scat as a Tool for Emotional Expression
While scat singing is often associated with technical virtuosity, Ringer uses it as a vehicle for emotional expression. Her scat passages can convey joy, frustration, or even surrealism, depending on the context of the song. This emotional depth sets her apart from many scat singers who focus primarily on technical prowess.
“Catherine Ringer’s scat is not just about sounding good—it’s about feeling good, or bad, or everything in between. She uses her voice as a canvas, painting emotions that words alone cannot capture.” – Music critic, *Le Monde*
The Influence of Cabaret and Vaudeville
Ringer’s scat singing is also influenced by her love for cabaret and vaudeville traditions. These genres, known for their theatricality and humor, have shaped her approach to performance. Her scat often incorporates exaggerated vocal inflections and dramatic pauses, reminiscent of early 20th-century entertainers. This blend of cabaret and punk aesthetics creates a unique sonic experience that defies categorization.
Scat in the Context of Electronic Music
Les Rita Mitsouko’s fusion of electronic music with organic instrumentation provides an innovative backdrop for Ringer’s scat. The synthetic textures of synthesizers and drum machines contrast with the raw, human quality of her voice, creating a compelling dichotomy. In tracks like “Marcia Baïla,” her scat passages interact with the electronic beats, adding a layer of warmth and spontaneity to the otherwise mechanical soundscape.
Ringer’s scat singing in electronic music demonstrates how traditional vocal techniques can be reimagined in modern contexts. Her work challenges the notion that electronic music must be devoid of human emotion, proving that the voice can be a powerful instrument in any genre.
The Legacy of Catherine Ringer’s Scat
Catherine Ringer’s contributions to scat singing have left an indelible mark on the music world. Her fearless experimentation has inspired a new generation of artists to explore the boundaries of vocal expression. Bands and singers across genres, from indie rock to experimental pop, have drawn inspiration from her unique approach to scat.
Pros of Ringer’s Scat Style
- Innovation: She has expanded the possibilities of scat singing, blending it with diverse musical styles.
- Emotional Depth: Her scat passages convey complex emotions, enriching the listener’s experience.
- Versatility: She demonstrates how scat can be adapted to both traditional and modern contexts.
Cons of Ringer’s Scat Style
- Acquired Taste: Her unconventional approach may not appeal to listeners accustomed to traditional scat or straightforward lyrics.
- Complexity: The layered nature of her scat can sometimes overshadow other elements of the music.
Conclusion: A Voice Beyond Words
Catherine Ringer’s scat singing is more than a technical skill—it is a form of artistic expression that transcends language and genre. Her ability to infuse scat with emotion, innovation, and theatricality has made her one of the most distinctive vocalists of her generation. As Les Rita Mitsouko’s legacy continues to inspire, Ringer’s scat remains a testament to the power of the human voice as an instrument of creativity and rebellion.
What is scat singing?
+Scat singing is a vocal improvisation technique using nonsense syllables instead of lyrics, often associated with jazz but found in various musical genres.
How does Catherine Ringer’s scat differ from traditional scat?
+Ringer’s scat is infused with punk and electronic influences, often serving as an emotional and structural element rather than mere improvisation.
Which Les Rita Mitsouko songs feature Catherine Ringer’s scat?
+Notable examples include “C’est Comme Ça,” “Andy,” and “Marcia Baïla” from the album The No Comprendo.
Why is scat singing important in music?
+Scat singing allows vocalists to express creativity and emotion beyond the constraints of lyrics, adding spontaneity and innovation to music.
How has Catherine Ringer influenced modern music?
+Ringer’s unique approach to scat and her blend of genres have inspired artists across indie rock, electronic, and experimental pop to explore new vocal techniques.
