The vocal folds produce sound when they come together and then vibrate as air passes through them during exhalation of air from the lungs. This vibration produces the sound wave for your voice. In order for the sound to be clear and not raspy or hoarse, the vocal folds must vibrate together symmetrically and regularly.

Is singing bad for your vocal cords?

Certain styles of singing—belting, screaming, anything harsh or unnatural—are more likely to strain your vocal folds. Straining to hit a note that's out of your range—too low is just as bad as too high—can also cause damage.

How do singers damage their vocal cords?

Overuse can damage the vocal cords, and if you often find you have lost your voice by the end of the day or after an hour of singing, your vocal cords may be experiencing tissue damage.