Range extension and, Is this normal?

Hi Camille,

       I am confused on what is the best way I can learn to sing higher notes without belting too much. I am trying to practice my head voice, and I made a goal to learn how to sing the note D5. I try to hit that nite in this sing I am practicing, but when I do that I try to belt it, and push for it. I know I shouldn't push for high notes but I'm unclear on what else to do. Do I need to belt notes to extend my range higher? I heard someone say if you belt you should try a mix belt, but I'm still working on my head voice. I feel like I don't know what I'm doing with any of this singing stuff.

       Also, I notice that when I practice, it is easier for me to sing before I do my warmup, which I use the "daily warmups" exercises for, than after. Is that normal? Why do I sound worse after I warm up? 

Approaching high notes in head voice first is perfect - rather than singing on lyrics, try singing the melody on a vowel like OO or a lip trill (whatever is easiest for you to find head voice with)!

I think you'll like this series: https://www.30daysinger.com/tutorial/developing-each-vocal-register/1

I'm not sure without hearing you, but I'd experiment with a different warmup (perhaps a shorter warmup, or one targeted for a different vocal range, like tenor or baritone/bass, whichever is an easier fit for you)!