I'm a relatively new guitarist and I'm going to be playing this song comprised of only four chords and a relatively simple strumming pattern, but I just can't sing and play the guitar at the same time, although that's my only option because I can't find a singer better than me who knows the song.
So anybody got any helpful advice or tips on how to sing and strum easier?
It takes some time to actually get this difficult technique down but once you figure it out, its just like riding a bike. I recommend practicing a lot just messing around singing a strumming and one day it will suddenly click for you. There is really no specific method to improve this besides practice.
For me with personal experience I found that playing along with some easy songs helps a lot. For example, go look up one of your favorite songs and play it out loud from your computer and try to play guitar and sing along with it. This will help you get your timing down.
Ultimately, however like I said before the real only way to achieve this skill is through practice. I know it kinda sucks, but whatever you'll be better for it in the end. Just play a lot and have fun while you do it.
One helpful tip…I have found it easier to play and sing once I have practiced the guitar part so much that it almost becomes second nature. So try playing the guitar part of your song over and over again until you can't stand hearing it anymore then try to put your singing overtop it and it should seem easier.
An alternative to this process as well is that you could record the guitar part on your computer and then play that and sing overtop it to see what it sounds like.
Anyways, you've heard enough from me, get to practicing!
Rock on!