Modernized Hymns: Hymns, or Contemporary Songs with Old Words?

If the lead vocals are sung with an affected, pseudo-emotional, or commercial style, instead of more clear, pure, neutral vocal production, you’re singing contemporary songs with old words.

Alice Parker, composer, arranger, conductor, and enduring champion of good congregational singing, notes that congregations sing best when led by a vocalist who is not about putting their own personal spin on the performance, but who can sing clearly in tune, with good vowels and a pure inflection. This singer, quite honestly, does none of those things.

We’re not looking for the grandest operatic voice here, but one that can support voices by giving all necessary musical and textual information.