For solo artists preparing to record in a London recording studio, vocal health is one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of the process. Whether you're laying down a simple vocal track or recording a full single, your voice is your instrument—and keeping it in top condition can make the difference between an average session and an incredible one. As recording studios across London continue to offer world-class equipment and production in 2025, arriving vocally prepared will help you make the most of your time, confidence, and creativity.
Watch What You Eat and Drink
Many singers don’t think deeply about their diet before a session, but certain foods can significantly affect vocal performance. As a general rule, avoid spicy food the day before and on the day of your recording, as it can cause irritation or acid reflux, both of which can make singing more difficult.
Always bring plenty of room-temperature bottled water with you. Tap water in some studios may vary in taste or purity, and your hydration is too important to risk. Never drink ice-cold water before or during the session—cold temperatures can tighten and constrict your vocal cords, making them less flexible. Room-temperature hydration keeps the voice supple and ready for demanding takes.
Why You Should Avoid Chocolate Before Recording
Chocolate is a common pre-session craving, but it’s one of the worst options for singers. Dairy, sugar, and even certain types of spices can increase mucus production, leading to throat clearing, a clogged feeling, and inconsistent tone. Excess mucus can also make it harder to hit pitches cleanly, causing vocal strain or fatigue. Many singers are sensitive to dairy or sugar without realising it, so cutting these foods before recording can dramatically improve vocal clarity.
Sleep, Warm-Ups, and Staying Energised
A good night’s sleep is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your voice. Fatigue affects breath support, pitch stability, and tone—so try to approach your recording session well-rested and relaxed.
On the day of your session, always bring a light lunch or healthy snacks. Studio days can be long, depending on how many hours you’ve booked, and singing on an overly full stomach can be uncomfortable. Opt for easy-to-digest foods that won’t weigh you down.
Make sure to do a proper vocal warm-up before your session begins—gentle stretches, lip trills, soft scales, and breathing exercises can get your voice ready without straining it. Between takes, sip on warm herbal or fruit teas, which help maintain warmth and comfort in the vocal cords. Avoid caffeinated teas and coffee, as caffeine can dehydrate you and reduce vocal flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your voice in the days leading up to your studio session is essential for achieving a clean, expressive, professional recording. By paying attention to diet, hydration, rest, and warm-ups, solo artists can walk into any London recording studio in 2025 feeling confident, prepared, and ready to perform at their very best.