Singing with a midi file vs singing while playing

[dinapoli]

To all the singers out there.

What are the plus and minus of singing while playing the keyboard VS singing to a midi file?

[mikf]

I can't see any plus to singing while playing. It's what you have to do when performing live, but when recording you have better options and one of them is to separate the performances. Apart from anything else it lets you edit, improve or correct the accompaniment. And it's easier, and pretty much what would happen in any pro studio.
I know there are some who might think there is some kudos in recording "live" so to speak, but that is really a bit of an amateurish viewpoint. People who regularly perform live in front of audiences know they can do it and have nothing to prove. But they also know live performance doesn't have to be perfect because there is no replay. But a recording is different, it can be played over and over, and it's amazing how even a very minor aberration becomes the only thing you hear and a big irritation. So you try to get it as perfect as you can. That's why even top quality performers often spend hours in studios on one song.
Mike

[mikf]

Apologies, I think I misunderstood your question. I assumed you were talking about doing this when recording because that is where I see the choice. But I think you are asking about live performing. To me that is really a question of what you are - a vocalist or a keyboard player who sings.
Mike

[dinapoli]

Thank you Mike,
The question should have been phrased what are the plus and minuses of singing to a midi file or singing while playing a keyboard in a live performance.

[Toril S]

It definitely looks better if you play yourself. But sometimes you want to step close to the audience to get contact with them, and then it would be great to just stand beside the keyboard while singing. Only thing, I have not tried it yet, I am too afraid that will give them the impression that the keyboard is just a recording machine, and that I am not really playihg it even whilst sitting behind it. LOL

[dinapoli]

Toril,

That problem is easily resolved by explaining, briefly, to the audience what a beautiful instrument it is that you have on the stage and when you touch the keys you are producing the sound live!  You will be surprised to learn many know what an Arranger keyboard is.

I prefer to step away from the keyboard instead of faking playing while a midi file is playing.