Vocal Coach Analysis: Janelle Monáe – Come Alive [Live at The Oscars 2020]

Janelle Monáe is a name synonymous with innovation, artistry, and vocal excellence. Her performance of “Come Alive” is a testament to her extraordinary talent and ability to captivate audiences with her unique sound.

The Vocal Mastery of Janelle Monáe

1. Exploring the Head Voice

Janelle Monáe’s use of the head voice is nothing short of spectacular. Her ability to manipulate thin vocal folds allows her to produce a sound that is both ethereal and powerful. This technique involves a thyroid tilt, which is crucial for achieving the head voice’s distinct quality.

• Vibrato Control: Janelle’s vibrato is a defining feature of her vocal style. It adds depth and emotion to her performance, showcasing her exceptional control over her voice.

2. Janelle Monáe: Seamless Transitions Between Vocal Registers

One of the hallmarks of Janelle Monáe’s singing is her seamless transitions between different vocal registers. She effortlessly moves from head voice to chest voice, maintaining clarity and resonance throughout.

• Avoiding Breathiness: Janelle expertly avoids the common pitfall of breathiness when transitioning between registers, ensuring her sound remains full and vibrant.

3. The Art of Belting by Janelle Monáe

Belting is a technique that requires precision and control, and Janelle Monáe masters it with ease. Her ability to belt without straining her voice is a testament to her vocal prowess.

• Controlled Yell: Janelle’s belting involves a controlled yell, adding intensity to her performance without compromising vocal health.
• Mouth Positioning: Her strategic mouth positioning enhances vocal quality, allowing her to achieve the desired sound effortlessly.

Vocal Health and Technique of Janelle Monáe

1. Managing Vocal Strain

Janelle Monáe’s performance highlights the importance of managing vocal strain. Her technique ensures that she maintains breath pressure and vocal fold closure, avoiding any discomfort or damage to her voice.

• Larynx Control: Controlling the larynx height is essential for achieving different vocal qualities, and Janelle demonstrates this with finesse.

2. Overcoming Vocal Challenges

While Janelle Monáe’s vocal performance appears effortless, it is the result of meticulous technique and practice. Her ability to overcome vocal challenges is an inspiration to singers everywhere.

• Acid Reflux Awareness: As noted in the transcript, some singers face challenges like acid reflux, which can affect vocal quality. Janelle’s performance serves as a reminder of the importance of vocal health.

Janelle Monáe’s Impact on the Music Industry

Janelle Monáe is not only a vocal powerhouse but also a trailblazer in the music industry. Her presence as a black, queer artist is a beacon of representation and diversity, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their identities and share their stories through music.

1. Celebrating Diversity

Janelle Monáe’s performance at the Oscars is a celebration of diversity in the music industry. Her ability to connect with audiences from all walks of life is a testament to her universal appeal and the power of music to transcend boundaries.

2. Inspiring Future Generations

Janelle Monáe’s artistry continues to inspire future generations of singers and musicians. Her commitment to storytelling and representation paves the way for a more inclusive and vibrant music industry.

Conclusion

Janelle Monáe’s “Come Alive” is a masterclass in vocal excellence and artistic expression. Her ability to captivate audiences with her unique sound and powerful message is a testament to her extraordinary talent. Whether you’re an aspiring singer or a music enthusiast, there’s much to learn from Janelle Monáe’s performance.

We invite you to share your thoughts on Janelle Monáe’s performance and her impact on the music industry. Let us know which artist you’d like us to explore next, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more insights into the world of music and vocal techniques.