The Cure frontman Robert Smith has defied time with his unmistakable voice, and it’s more evident than ever in the band’s latest release, “Alone.” Fans have been blown away by how youthful and vibrant Smith sounds on the track, leaving many wondering how he’s managed to maintain such a powerful and ageless voice well into his 60s.
Quitting Smoking Early
One of the biggest factors in Smith’s ability to retain his youthful sound is likely his decision to quit smoking years ago. While many rock stars of his era succumbed to the harsh effects that smoking can have on a voice, Smith made a conscious choice to protect his vocal cords.
By quitting early, he likely avoided much of the long-term damage that can cause voices to become raspy or strained over time. While quitting smoking didn’t necessarily mean leading a completely clean lifestyle—Smith has been open about his history with drinking and drugs—saving his voice from the harmful effects of tobacco may have been one of his most significant choices as an artist.
Another crucial factor behind Robert Smith’s enduring vocal quality is how he treats his voice as an instrument. Professional singers know the importance of vocal warm-ups and tuning, and Smith is no exception. While it’s easy to assume that rock singers don’t put much effort into technique, Smith likely incorporates practices like warming up his vocal cords before performing or recording, ensuring his voice stays flexible and resilient.
Smith’s voice, often described as hauntingly beautiful and ethereal, has remained largely unchanged since the band’s early days. His distinctive tone was never about power or aggressive vocals; instead, it relied on emotional depth and subtlety. This particular style has helped him maintain the quality of his voice over the years. By not straining his voice with heavy belting or harsh techniques, Smith’s vocals have aged gracefully, allowing him to sound just as good live as he does in the studio.
The Role of Production
While Robert Smith’s natural talent and care for his voice are undeniable, it’s also worth noting that modern production techniques can play a role in enhancing vocal performances. Some fans initially believed that Smith’s youthful sound on “Alone” was due to studio magic, but as soon as they heard him perform the song live, it became clear that the ageless quality of his voice is genuine. The production may polish the sound, but Smith’s raw talent shines through on stage, where he sounds almost identical to the studio version.
A Timeless Voice That Transcends Age
At 65 years old, Robert Smith continues to defy expectations with a voice that sounds as fresh and youthful as it did decades ago. His ability to transport listeners back to The Cure’s early days is nothing short of remarkable, and it’s no wonder that fans are continually captivated by his performances. Whether it’s a result of vocal care, a natural gift, or a combination of both, Smith’s voice remains one of the most iconic and enduring in rock history.
In a time when many rock legends have lost the vocal abilities that once defined them, Robert Smith stands out as an artist who has preserved the magic of his sound. “Alone” serves as a powerful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to true musical talent.
