Vocal Coach Analysis: Jessie J x Living My Best Life

Jessie J’s performance of “Living My Best Life” is more than an empowering anthem—it’s a showcase of modern pop vocal technique.

After a recent surgery, the star demonstrates how to keep vocal health intact while delivering powerful, high‑energy moments

This analysis breaks down the key techniques she uses, offers practical exercises you can try, and explains why the song works so well for singers looking to boost their own repertoire.

Why the Song Stands Out

The track blends pop‑belt intensity with subtle gospel flair, creating a dynamic range that demands both control and emotional delivery. Jessie J’s vocal choices—especially the way she transitions from a soft chest‑voice into brighter head‑voice notes—provide a blueprint for singers who want to sound big without straining.

Core Techniques Highlighted in the Analysis

• Chest‑voice up‑sweep – Rather than a full belt, Jessie J pushes her chest tone upward, keeping a speech‑like quality while extending her range. This requires thicker vocal folds early in the phrase, then a gradual lightening as she rises.
• Thyroid tilt and slight larynx lowering – Dropping the larynx a fraction and tilting the thyroid cartilage adds warmth and darkens the timbre. The subtle shift also cues a natural vibrato on key words such as “best life.”
• Controlled breath support – Each line begins with a clear, quiet breath that fuels the phrase without causing wobble. Diaphragmatic support is evident in the steady exhalation before every chorus hook.
• Mouth shaping (trumpet position & vowel rounding) – Rounded vowels and a slightly narrowed mouth help project the higher notes, while the “trumpet” shape maintains resonance throughout the line.
• Micro‑vibrato and gospel wobble – Jessie J introduces a gentle vibrato on the phrase “best life” and adds a brief gospel‑style wobble on “take the pain,” giving emotional depth without overwhelming the melody.
• In‑ear monitoring for self‑awareness – Though not shown on screen, the coach notes that using molded in‑ear monitors lets the singer hear subtle changes in tone, allowing precise adjustments on the fly.

Step‑by‑Step Breakdown of Signature Sections

Opening Verse – “You ride it till the wheels fall off”
The goal here is a soft chest voice with a breathy edge. Singers should start with a deep diaphragmatic inhale, keep the vocal folds thin, and round the “o” in “roll” to keep the sound forward and relaxed.

Pre‑Chorus – “No more tears, finally living my best life”
This moment marks the transition from chest to a lighter head‑voice blend. Lift the larynx slightly at the start, then drop it a fraction as you reach the apex of “best life.” The slight thyroid tilt encourages a natural vibrato, while maintaining a speech‑like tone prevents strain.

Chorus – “Watch me dance and lose control”
A pop‑belt feel is achieved without full belting. Thick vocal folds and strong core support provide power, while a trumpet‑shaped mouth keeps the sound bright. The singer should avoid pushing for volume; the focus is on a confident, speech‑like projection that feels energetic yet safe.

Gospel‑Inspired Bridge – “Take the pain and turn it to deeper love”
Here, a relaxed larynx and added darkness to the timbre create a soulful wobble. Let the vibrato expand gradually, letting the throat relax just enough to let a subtle gospel‑style shake emerge.

Practical Warm‑Up Checklist

• Diaphragmatic breathing: 4‑4‑8 pattern (inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 8) – three.
• Lip trills on a five‑note slur – two minutes to smooth vocal‑fold transitions.
• Sirens (glissando) from low chest to high head – five repetitions to master larynx control.
• “Oh” in trumpet position – slide from low to high on the vowel “oh,” eight reps to lock in mouth shape.
• Micro‑vibrato drill – sustain a note, then add a gentle wobble for the final two seconds; six repetitions per pitch.
• Speech‑like belt practice – sing a short phrase (“I’m so happy”) on a comfortable middle range, gradually increasing volume while keeping the tone conversational.

Finish with a gentle humming descent to cool down the vocal folds.

How These Techniques Benefit Singers

Applying the discussed methods helps you:

• Maintain vocal health while tackling high‑energy pop songs.
• Blend chest and head registers smoothly, creating a seamless sound across the range.
• Add emotional color through controlled vibrato and strategic timbre changes.
• Improve self‑monitoring by using in‑ear monitors or headphones to hear subtle tonal shifts.

Take the Next Step

Start integrating these exercises into your daily routine and experiment with the song’s key sections. Pay attention to breath support, larynx positioning, and mouth shape as you move through the verses and choruses.

By practicing the techniques highlighted in this analysis, you’ll develop a stronger, more versatile voice that can handle the dynamic demands of “Living My Best Life” and beyond.

Live your best vocal life—just like Jessie J.