How can I work to become a good singer (sound clip included)?

I know I can't sing very well...at all. I have a very small range and I just thing my voice doesn't sound very good. But I still love singing and I would love so much to be able to sing well. I can't afford a vocal coach and I am not joining choir because I am not a fan of the music they sing, and our choir teacher is horrible. I know I can't ever be an amazing singer, but what can I do on my own to sound better?

Here is a clip of me singing. http://www.bestsharing.com/f/dNZ21374722 just click the download button, you can just delete after.

In addition to the tips above (both of which are *great*), try looking at your local library for instructional books, CDs, and DVDs. You may be able to find pre-recorded exercises and tips from actual voice teachers.

Also, explore different avenues of singing and find the one that works best for you (i.e., you like it and you like the way you sound when singing that way). There's classical, jazz, pop, metal, etc. Good luck!

I listened to your clip, and I have 2 suggestions.

1. Try to open your mouth wider. If you watch choirs, you will notice their mouths are often shaped like an egg is in it.

2. Practice something I learned in respiratory therapy, abdominal breathing. Practice making your stomach expand when you breathe in, like you're filling it with air. Try not to let your shoulders raise. All singers breathe like this. It makes your lungs, and therefore your voice, more full, and your voice will carry better.

That's all I can think of right now.
I think you're brave to put yourself out there like that. People might say rude things, try not to pay attention.

you might want to stop imitating the way Haley sings and try to sing Misery Business YOUR way. I'll see if I can figure out how to upload a small version of me sing the song my way, no one sounds a like so most people may sound bad when they sing Misery Business. I might edit this post later so watch out if not then sorry...

You do have potential, but you're singing from only your mouth and throat and bit of your nose. Try it thru your diaphragm. Also, I don't think Paramore music is your type. A softer type of music would be better like Ashley Tisdale. Or you could be amazing at "Emergency" by Paramore. It also sounds like you're barely opening your mouth. Articulate all words. Like if you are singing the word "Emergency", your mouth should be shaped like a square for that partcular word. Look at my other answers to see what I have said about diaphragms.

http://www.vocalist.org.uk/ is the best online singing help page on the net in my opinion. Check it out it will help at least one thing that runs through your mind at any givin time about singing. Also check this video out on youtube this guy describes using the diaphram to a T. http://youtube.com/watch?v=U3vpuOJsIks

If you get a chance you can also listen to my music at www.myspace.com/70sfunk

try to practice alot and never let anyone step on your dream and if you want to be a superstar try to atract some one in a mall by dancing or singing who knows the one that will see you may bea director or a singer that needs a partner1