I. Understanding the Mic

  1. The SM58 is a cardioid dynamic microphone
  2. It picks up sound mainly from the front
  3. It rejects sound from the back
  4. Cupping the grille changes the pickup pattern and causes feedback

II. How to Hold the Microphone

  1. Hold the shaft/body, not the grille
  2. Use a relaxed grip — do not squeeze
  3. Do not hold it by the cable
  4. Never cup the top (“ice cream cone” grip)

III. Proper Distance

  1. Standard position: 1–2 inches from your mouth
  2. Closer = stronger, warmer sound
  3. Farther = softer, thinner sound
  4. Pull the mic away slightly on loud or high notes
  5. Bring it closer for soft or intimate phrases

IV. Angle & Position

  1. Avoid singing directly into the mic at 90° all the time
  2. Hold it at a slight angle (20–45°)
  3. Angle helps reduce harsh “P,” “B,” and “T” sounds (plosives)

V. Movement & Stage Awareness

  1. Move the mic with your head — never let your voice drift off-mic
  2. If you turn your head, turn the mic with it
  3. Keep speakers in front of you, not behind you
  4. Be aware of stage monitors to avoid feedback

VI. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Cupping the grille
  2. Letting the mic drift too far from your mouth
  3. Pulling the mic away on soft notes instead of loud ones
  4. Looking away from the mic while singing
  5. Holding the mic at chest level instead of mouth level

VII. Professional Standard

  1. Good mic technique makes you sound confident and polished
  2. Poor mic technique makes even strong singers sound amateur
  3. Judges and audiences may not comment on mic technique but they absolutely hear when it’s wrong