Lip Syncing

WHAT IS LIP SYNCING?

Lip syncing is when a singer/artist moves their lips silently with a pre-recorded soundtrack in order to make it look like they are singing live. As well as the music industry, lip syncing can also be used for films, games, apps, etc.

WHEN IS IT APPROPRIATE?

The technique of lip syncing is useful for artists when creating music videos, it allows them to focus on the filming and incorporate a variety of shots and locations without having to perform the song live every time. However artists have been known to use lip syncing for the wrong reasons, such as live performances. Audiences pay good money with the intention to see an artist perform live, therefore should not be provided with a pre-recorded sound track during a performance. Although it makes life easier for the singer, it portrays a lack of talent.

LIP SYNCING GOOD VS BAD

American singer-songwriter Ashlee Simpson was put too alot of embarrassment on FOX News when she started lip syncing a different song to the track being played. To pass time she began a very awkward dance before eventually leaving the stage and making an apology at the end of the show. The mistake went viral and marked a fall in her musical career; it was the beginning of the end.

In contrast, American musical reality competition series "Lip Sync Battle" brings us examples of more accurate lip syncing. Despite the show being comedy based, the celebritities battle with success and show how lip syncing should really be done. Will Ferrell's performance of Beyonce's Drunk In Love and Disney's Let It Go is shown on the right.