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Darren Altman

Voice Over Artist & Impressionist

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A Freelancers Guide To Staying Sane During COVID-19

01/04/2020 By Darren Altman

COVID-19 - A Freelancers Guide

COVID-19 - A Freelancers Guide If you’re a freelancer working for yourself, being on Lockdown can be an incredibly stressful situation. Here are my thoughts on how to keep busy and stay sane, in A Freelancers Guide To Staying Sane During COVID-19.

I used to worry about work a LOT, but realise that there is little point. When talking to colleagues, you find that we’re all in the same boat as freelancers and have good days and bad, ups and downs. Talking to friends and keeping in touch with colleagues when you work alone is a great comfort and shared experience can help ease anxiety.

Use Social Media To Create Great Content

There are several ways that I’ve been staying positive and upbeat during these tough times and I thought I’d share a few thoughts as to how I’m coping. Firstly, the key is to keep busy! As a voiceover artist and impressionist I’ve been keeping busy during the inevitable lean periods by creating content for social media, lots of content which I’ve been putting out to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok. One impression I get asked to voice a lot (as you can well imagine!) is Boris Johnson and I’ve been doing a daily Boriscam! Short videos, all less than 2 minutes to keep people smiling. These have been shared and reTweeted far and wide, which is great for the profile and for getting content out.

Keep Up To Date

When work is sparse, it’s a great opportunity to make sure that your website is looking good and up to date. If you’re a creative, make sure that your Youtube account is current, with your latest work, which links back to your website and is all tagged properly. This may seem like a stupid thing to say, but give your office, studio or workspace a spring clean and also do the same to your computer! We have a tendency to leave tonnes of files on our desktops and not organise ourselves. Spend a little time cleaning up your Mac or PC, so it’s all organised and is no longer a pain to work on!

Get Out And Get Active!

Get out and exercise! I know that everyone is banging on about this at the moment, but for me it’s vital. I got for runs, create circuits to do at home or just go for a long walk. It gets the dopamine firing and as well as keeping fit and healthy and it’s valuable time to myself listening to podcasts and interviews.

Finally, don’t stress! Remember that as a freelancer a lot of people will be in the same boat, so there’s little point in thinking that your hirers don’t want you anymore and don’t take it personally!

If you’d like to know more about my voiceover services, or would like me to deliver a celebrity impression, please do get in touch and I’ll be happy to help you get the exact style you require.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are you rates for radio adverts?

A: In the UK, I work to the latest Equity rate card. If your commercial is for transmission abroad, please let me know all the information, so I can quote accurately.

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment details are on the bottom.
As well as bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal, which will incur a 6% charge to cover their fees.

Boris Johnson – The Coronavirus Rap

26/03/2020 By Darren Altman

Boris Johnson, Coronavirus rap

Boris Johnson, Coronavirus rap

The Coronavirus Rap

Why create The Boris Johnson Coronavirus Rap?! As I write this, the Coronavirus is sweeping the world. The United Kingdom and several other countries around the globe is in lockdown, due to the unprecedented number of deaths caused by this horrific disease.

The phrase “strange times” is being used daily, to describe the horrific state we are currently living in. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered all bars, pubs, restaurants, leisure centres and gyms to close and the people only to leave the house if they are Key Workers going to do their jobs, on a brief shopping trip for food supplies or taking daily exercise. Gatherings of people are strictly prohibited and we must now practice “social distancing,” a phrase which until now had not been in our lexicon. Cinemas and theatres have closed, as well as major department stores. Yes, very strange and frightening times indeed. Members of my own family, as well as close friends have now got the virus and it is a deeply disturbing state of affairs.

Government Health Advice

As we are being given daily updates as to how we can combat this virus and stop it spreading, I wondered what I could do to help those who perhaps until now have not quite understood the seriousness of the situation. Some people seem to be ignoring the advice given by the WHO – World Health Organisation and the daily government advice, which is being given to to us by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his leading health officials. Incredibly, despite the gravitas of the Coronavirus and the dozens of people dying from the disease on a daily basis, they are going about their lives as normal. Maybe they haven’t been directly affected as yet?

Boris Johnson Impression

As an impressionist, I’m regularly asked to impersonate Boris Johnson for web videos, tv and radio adverts, so it was a no-brainer for me to put pen to paper, write a rap and record Boris with The Coronavirus Rap.

The Coronavirus Rap

I chose a backing track Drop It Like It’s Hot by Snoop Dog and mashed it up with Sweet Home Alabama, by Lynyrd Skynyrd. Why? Don’t ask me! Because it sort of worked and it sounded quirky! Anyway, here’s the results.

I hope that in a time of uncertainty and worry for people who are forced to stay indoors, The Boris Johnson Coronavirus Rap will bring a smile.

If you’re interested in my voiceover services and would like me to deliver a celebrity impression, please do get in touch and I’ll be happy to help you get the exact style you require.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are you rates for radio adverts?

A: In the UK, I work to the latest Equity rate card. If your commercial is for transmission abroad, please let me know all the information, so I can quote accurately.

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment details are on the bottom.
As well as bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal, which will incur a 6% charge to cover their fees.

DeepFake Boris Johnson

12/11/2019 By Darren Altman

DeepFake Boris

DeepFake Boris I’ve impersonated Boris Johnson in lots of radio adverts and for lots of different companies, but when I was contacted by the guys at Future Advocacy for this project, I knew that it was a bit special. It was to be a DeepFake Boris Johnson!

The brief was to impersonate Boris, but they wanted me to go into a studio in London to be filmed while performing the impression as they had to capture my exact mouth movements. The weren’t interested in capturing anything else, except my mouth!

The Process

A camera was positioned in the voiceover booth and I had to face it, while holding my script. Normally when I work on a celebrity impression, I try to capture all the facial expressions and mannerisms of a person in order to get as much detail of their personality as possible. However, for the DeepFake Boris Johnson my eye and facial movements were not relevant. When studying Boris, It’s interesting to note that he has a particular was of annunciating his “S’s” and when mimicking this, the mouth shape alters, so this was a great help in making the character real. I’ve also noticed that Boris has a slight underbite in his jaw, so his bottom teeth tend to protrude slightly. Again, highlighting this adds to the essence of his character and adds more detail.

We must have read the script 10 times, as the producers took notes on each take and we found that the one used had great spirit and captured Boris’ personality the best! I was also free to make a couple of silly noises and add some random latin at the end, so as as the piece progressed, the viewer would become aware that this may not be real!

DeepFake Boris Johnson

Here’s the final piece.


Behind The Scenes

While in the studio The BBC sent their own film crew to capture the whole process for the Victoria Derbyshire Program. It really is fascinating. Click on the image below to watch the incredible behind the scenes footage of how it was all created.


If you would like any more information about my Boris Johnson impression, or my impression or voiceover work in general, do get in touch and let me know how I can help.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are your charges?

A: If you are buying air time in the UK, then you will know the TVRs. When you give me that information, I’ll be happy to quote accurately for you. Any foreign TV commercials will be subject to the international rates on www.usefee.tv

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment are on the bottom and as well as cheque and direct bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal.

Check out this Murray Walker Impression!

26/09/2019 By Darren Altman

Murray Walker Impression As a professional voiceover artist and impressionist, one voice I get asked to impersonate is that of the legendary Formula One racing commentator, Murray Walker.

Murray Walker’s Commentating Style

Murray is well renowned for his passion and enthusiasm when commentating on Formula One. He will tend to begin his commentary in a very controlled and measured manner and can explode at any second when action happens, such as overtaking or if a car crashes! It almost sounds like he loses control, as he yells and bellows out his commentary! His enthusiasm for the sport is incredible.

Audio And Video Examples

A promotional video for Nova Innovation

Radio ad for Tom Marshall Productions

https://www.darrenaltman.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Mauuray-Walker_mixdown.wav

If you require a Murray Walker impression for your promotional or corporate video, radio or tv advert or animation, please do get in touch and let me know how I can be of help. I look forward to hearing from you.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are you rates for radio adverts?

A: In the UK, I work to the latest Equity rate card. If your commercial is for transmission abroad, please let me know all the information, so I can quote accurately.

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment details are on the bottom. I accept direct bank transfer and can also be paid via Paypal.

Check Out This Great Nigel Farage Impression!

23/05/2019 By Darren Altman

Nigel Farage Impression

Nigel Farage ImpressionAre you looking for an impression of Nigel Farage? As a voiceover artist specialising in character voices and celebrity impressions, I have voiced the current leader of the Brexit Party Nigel Farage, for videos and even parody songs!

The Nigel Farage Voice

Nigel was born in Kent and educated in Dulwich college, so has a south east England accent. Due to his love of beer and cigars, he has quite a gruff and weathered tone to his voice. As he’s often campaigning in front of large crowds or yelling, in order to be heard over belligerent politicians and interviewers, he has no trouble in raising his voice and accenting words and phrases, to illustrate his point!

Examples of my Nigel Farage impression

This is a video that I voiced, leading up to the European elections, as Nigel

This is a parody song that I sang as Nigel!

What next?!

If you would like me to voice a project for you as Brexiteer Nigel Farage, then please get in touch and let me know how I can help you.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are your charges?

A: If you are buying air time in the UK, then you will know the TVRs. When you give me that information, I’ll be happy to quote accurately for you. Any foreign TV commercials will be subject to the international rates on www.usefee.tv

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment are on the bottom and as well as cheque and direct bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal.

Check out this great Peter Alliss impression!

17/04/2019 By Darren Altman

Peter Aliss impression

Peter Aliss impressionAre you looking for an authentic Peter Alliss Impression? In sport there are a handful of commentators, whose voices really conjure up the spirit and essence of the sport. The great Peter Alliss is one man who when you hear his voice, not only is it instantly recognisable, but it immediately puts you on the golf course! It’s no wonder that he has earned the title “The Voice Of Golf!”

How To Do A Convincing Peter Alliss Impression

Peter has a distinctive voice. He’s a very laconic man and his hushed tones typify the sport, as one cannot shout while on the hallowed golf course! He has a gentle speaking voice and although he clearly gets animated when a good shot has been played, his voice is always measured and calm.

At the time of writing this post, Peter is 88 years of age and as a consequence, his voice has aged considerably. It is low in pitch and there’s gravel in his tones and a slight gruff sound. When a shot has been played and the ball is on the way to the hole, you can hear him willing it to go in!

He also has a few stock phrases that he uses when commentating, such as “never up, never in!” “There she goes!” and “well played sir!” All these expressions really help to capture the spirit of Peter.

An Example of my Peter Alliss Impression

Here’s a fun example, capturing the spirit of Peter.

If you’re looking for an impression of the great Peter Alliss, for your advert, web video or presentation, just let me know and I’ll be happy to help.

Yes, I'd like to know a bit more about this service...

  • To learn a little more about this service and how easy it is to get started on a new project, simply complete the brief form below and Darren will be in touch within a few hours.
 

FAQ About My Voiceover Services

Q: What am i getting for my money?

A: When you book me to voice for you, you’re not just paying for my voiceover, but the reassurance that it will be broadcast quality with no erroneous room noises for you to have to worry about.

Q: Will I have to edit or do anything to the voiceover?

A: Unless you’re a producer or prefer me to send you the raw file, you can be assured that I’ll edit my read for you, so you receive a finished, high quality file.

Q: How long will my voiceover take?

A: I pride myself on a fast turnaround and will always endeavour to send you back your file within 24 hours.

Q: I’m not entirely sure how to explain the voice, character or style I need, can you help?

A: Of course! I’m more than happy to chat over the phone with you your requirements and won’t hit record until we’re both happy that I’ll be voicing in the style that suits your read or character.

Q: Can I be directed during the recording?

A: Yes! If you prefer to listen in to the recording process and direct me, then I’m available on Skype, ISDN, ipDTL and Source Connect. I’m also happy to travel to studios for sessions.

Q: Do you charge for revisions?

A: Any mistakes made by myself will be corrected free of charge. Any script changes that occur after I have sent my recording will have to be charged. The fee will depend on the length of the read and number of changes.

Q: What are your charges?

A: If you are buying air time in the UK, then you will know the TVRs. When you give me that information, I’ll be happy to quote accurately for you. Any foreign TV commercials will be subject to the international rates on www.usefee.tv

Q: What are your payment terms?

A: Upon receiving your voiceover, you’ll also receive my invoice. My terms are 30 days net and all my payment are on the bottom and as well as cheque and direct bank transfer, I can also be paid via Paypal.

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