Ep. 63: Why Can't I Stop Crying When I Sing?

Today, I'm tackling a heartfelt topic that many singers experience but hesitate to talk about—crying while singing. I see it ALL the time, and I'm here to assure you that crying mid-performance is more common than you might think. Let's explore why this happens and how you can embrace it without letting it hinder your performance.

Permission to Feel

First things first, let's dismiss the notion that showing emotion while singing is a negative trait. Crying delivers a realness and vulnerability that can deepen your connection with the audience. Think of it as an emotional punctuation mark—it's a sign that you're truly pouring your heart into the song.

The Emotional Triggers

There are multiple reasons singers might cry when they perform. Your tears might spring from the overwhelming beauty or sadness of the music, a gut reaction to anxiety, or deep connections to personal memories linked with the lyrics. Perhaps you're part of a singing environment, like faith-based or spiritual settings, where such emotional expressiveness is even encouraged.

Navigating Tearful Moments

Acknowledge Your Feelings: During practice sessions, allow yourself to feel everything that comes up. Rather than suppressing your emotions, explore them—cry if you must. This helps in turning your nervous energy into a powerful performance aspect rather than a hindrance.
Prepare Somatically: Engage in physical exercises that activate your vagus nerve and promote calmness, like pinching your earlobes or gentle neck massages. Square breathing is another great technique—breathe in for four counts, hold for two, and exhale for six.
Visualize Success: Picture yourself delivering the song exactly as you want to, imperfections included. Genuine artistry involves your whole being—not just your vocal cords—and preparing mentally is just as vital as any vocal warm-up.
Performance Realities

Even with preparation, you might have emotional moments on stage. Here’s the twist—embrace them! Don’t view tears as a failure but allow them to humanize your performance. Imagine opening up to the audience with a phrase like, “This song gets me every time,” which could invite them to share in the emotional journey with you.
Trust Your Process
Remember, your performance is not an attempt at perfection but a mastery of self-expression honed over time with commitment and vulnerability. If tears flow, let them—because ultimately, what truly captivates an audience is your authenticity, your ability to live the story you’re singing and let it resonate.
Join the Conversation

In my Passionate Performer Program, we explore the marriage of mental preparation and vocal prowess. Want in on the journey to artistic confidence? We’d love to have you join us! CLICK HERE for more info.
Let’s remember, my friend: your performance is not just about hitting the right notes. It's about sharing your story, raw emotions, and the very essence of who you are as an artist. Keep connecting, keep singing, and trust the process.
Other sources:
The Body Keeps The Score Dr. Nicole LePera

Dr. Jon Skidmore
Ep. 62: Can I Create My Own Cabaret? with Gina Morgano MUSIC: "It's Time"By: Melissa V. CartwrightAll rights reserved © 2025