Nataleen - The Game
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Vocal Coach Analysis: Nataleen – The Game (Melodi Grand Prix/Eurovision Norway)

ByVocal Academy

Natalaleen’s performance of The Game captured Eurovision fans when she placed second in Norway’s national selection. While the song’s melody is deceptively simple, the vocal execution is anything but.

In this post we unpack the key techniques that give the track its dark, low‑chest timbre, the way the mic is used for intimate volume control, and how subtle body cues support a smooth transition between spoken‑style verses and powerful choruses.

Whether you’re a singer aiming to master low registers or a vocal coach looking for fresh teaching material, the insights below will help you understand what makes Natalaleen’s rendition stand out.

1. Lower Larynx Position for a Darker Tone

Natalaleen consistently drops her larynx when hitting the low chest‑voice notes that dominate the verses of The Game. This lowered position adds depth and prevents the sound from becoming thin or “pressed.” To practice the same effect, start on a comfortable pitch and slide down while visualising the larynx moving lower; maintain a gentle stream of breath to keep the tone resonant.

  • Key benefit: Darker timbre without excessive volume.
  • Common mistake: Keeping the larynx high, which leads to a strained, breathy sound.

2. Breath Management and Volume Control

Throughout the song, Natalaleen keeps the volume low while singing the low register, allowing her voice to stay relaxed. She pairs this with a small amount of airflow, creating a full‑bodied sound that never feels cramped. Singers can emulate this by delivering soft “ah” or “oo” sounds on low notes, then gradually increasing intensity only when moving into higher chest‑voice or belt sections.

  • Use a soft, steady breath support rather than a sudden push.
  • Focus on maintaining a consistent air column, especially on longer low phrases.

3. Body Alignment and Arm Movement

A subtle yet effective cue appears when Natalaleen’s arms rise as she descends in pitch. This motion engages the back muscles, relieving tension in the throat and helping the vocal folds stay thick during transitions to higher belts. Incorporating arm‑raise exercises while practicing scales can reinforce this alignment: raise the arms on each descending note, feeling the lift in the rib cage and shoulders.

4. Mouth Shape and Vowel Positioning

Natalaleen’s vowels remain wide and slightly rounded, especially on “o” and “a” sounds, which supports the low larynx and enriches the dark timbre. Consistency in mouth shape also contributes to the seamless shift between spoken‑style verses and sung choruses.

  • Practice singing the word “go” with a wide mouth opening, keeping the shape steady throughout the phrase.
  • Record yourself to compare vowel consistency across the song.

5. Mic Technique for Intimacy

The performer holds the microphone close—typically 3‑5 cm from her lips—throughout the verses. This proximity allows a low‑volume delivery to remain present and intimate without needing additional gain.

The close mic placement also encourages a slight thyroid tilt, which aids in gentle vocal‑fold closure. When rehearsing, experiment with a smartphone mic held near the mouth to replicate this intimate sound.

6. Transition Between Spoken‑On‑Pitch and Singing

In the pre‑chorus, Natalaleen shifts into a spoken‑on‑pitch style that feels conversational yet remains musically precise. This technique creates a “cool, calm, collected” vibe, giving the song a dynamic contrast without sacrificing vocal health. To master this:

  • Speak a line while maintaining a consistent pitch, then blend it seamlessly into a sung phrase.
  • Focus on breath control, as spoken sections often require less airflow than full singing.

7. Overall Musical Structure

The Game relies on a relatively simple melodic contour, but the strategic use of low chest voice, gradual dynamic build‑up, and occasional higher belt notes (up to D5/G5) creates an engaging arc.

The song’s arrangement leans heavily on rhythmic accompaniment and dance elements, allowing Natalaleen’s vocal nuances to sit front and center without the need for excessive vocal gymnastics.

Takeaways for Singers

  • Lower your larynx deliberately when navigating low chest‑voice passages to achieve a dark, resonant tone.
  • Keep volume low on low notes, using steady breath support to avoid strain.
  • Use subtle body cues, such as arm raises, to engage supportive musculature.
  • Maintain wide, rounded vowel shapes for consistency across registers.
  • Position the microphone close for intimacy and better control over low dynamics.

By applying these techniques, you can capture the same blend of restrained power and emotional clarity that makes Natalaleen’s rendition of The Game a standout performance in the Eurovision arena. Happy singing!

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