Vocal Coach Analysis: Lizzo & Kelly Clarkson x Someone Like You
When two powerhouse vocalists like Lizzo and Kelly Clarkson join forces on a classic ballad, the result is a masterclass in technique, tone, and emotional delivery.
Their rendition of “Someone Like You” offers a fascinating contrast: Lizzo’s rhythmic, speech‑like phrasing sits opposite Kelly’s seamless, belt‑filled lines.
In this post we break down the key vocal concepts that make their performance stand out, explain how you can apply them to your own singing, and share essential health tips for sustainable vocal growth.
Vocal‑Technique Highlights
Both artists display distinct approaches that stem from the anatomy of the voice. The thyroid cartilage—the “Adam’s apple”—can be tilted forward to create a true singing quality, while the cricoid cartilage beneath it can tilt back to thicken the vocal folds for powerful belting.
Lizzo keeps her thyroid in a more vertical position, giving her lines a conversational, almost spoken‑on‑pitch feel. Kelly, on the other hand, leans into a slight cricoid tilt during her higher passages, producing a richer, louder sound that blends chest and head voice seamlessly.
Phrase‑Style Differences
Lizzo’s delivery breaks the melody into short, punchy segments, allowing her to inject rhythm and a touch of “creak” before each note—a technique that adds tension and emotional weight.
Kelly prefers longer, legato phrases that flow uninterrupted, showcasing her ability to sustain notes with controlled breath and subtle vibrato. This contrast demonstrates how phrasing choices can dramatically affect a song’s mood and energy.
Belting vs. Head Voice
Understanding when to belt and when to transition into head voice is crucial for any vocalist. Belting relies on a tilted cricoid, which thickens the vocal folds and amplifies the acoustic output without straining the throat.
Head voice maintains a neutral cricoid, keeping the folds thinner for a lighter, airy tone. Kelly’s performance illustrates a smooth mix of both: she belts the chorus with powerful chest resonance and gently shifts into head voice for higher, sustained notes. Lizzo stays closer to a head‑voice quality throughout, preserving clarity and agility.
Practical Tips to Emulate Their Styles
- Thyroid‑Tilt Exercise: Start with a gentle “talk‑sing” on a low pitch, then gradually tilt the thyroid forward while keeping the throat relaxed. Feel the shift from speech to singing.
- Cricoid‑Tilt for Belt: On a comfortable high note, engage the diaphragm and imagine the cricoid cartilage tilting back. Notice the added thickness and volume.
- Vowel Shaping: Open the jaw slightly for fuller resonance (Kelly’s method) or keep the vowels narrower for a tighter, more rhythmic sound (Lizzo’s method).
- Add Controlled “Creak” before a note to build tension, then release smoothly into the pitch.
- Phrase Length Practice: Alternate between short, spoken‑like bursts and longer, connected phrases to develop flexibility.
Vocal Health Essentials
A sudden scratchy voice after high, loud notes can signal dryness or vocal‑fold irritation. If the scratch persists for more than a day, it’s wise to consult an ENT specialist. Regular hydration, daily warm‑ups (lip trills, humming, sirens), and annual voice check‑ups are essential habits for preserving vocal longevity—especially for singers who frequently belt or explore the upper range.
Why Study This Dual Performance?
Analyzing Lizzo and Kelly’s collaboration offers a real‑world example of how two contrasting techniques can coexist within a single arrangement. By dissecting their use of thyroid tilt, cricoid control, vowel shaping, and phrase styling, singers gain actionable insights that can be applied across genres—from pop and R&B to rock and musical theater.
Takeaways
- Lizzo’s speech‑like phrasing and vertical thyroid position create a rhythmic, intimate delivery.
- Kelly’s longer phrases, slight cricoid tilt, and open vowels produce a powerful, resonant belt that blends seamlessly into head voice.
- Mastering both techniques expands vocal versatility and allows singers to tailor their sound to any song’s emotional needs.
- Consistent vocal health practices safeguard the voice against strain and ensure long‑term performance quality.
Ready to elevate your own singing? Apply these exercises, stay mindful of your vocal anatomy, and keep your voice healthy. The next time you tackle a classic ballad, you’ll have the tools to bring both the conversational charm of Lizzo and the soaring power of Kelly Clarkson to your performance. Happy singing!
