BAWLING! Vocal Coach Analysis: She Used To Be Mine x Sara Bareilles and Rufus Wainwright
Vocal enthusiasts and aspiring singers, gather around! Today, we dive deep into the music world with a captivating vocal analysis of Sara Bareilles and Rufus Wainwright as they perform “She Used To Be Mine.” This blog post will take you through key vocal techniques and provide insights into what makes this duet a masterclass in emotive singing.
Vocal Emotion Connection
One of the standout elements of this performance is the superb connection to the lyrics. As a vocal coach, I believe that conveying emotion is as vital as hitting the right notes. The way Sara and Rufus express the song’s poignant story makes every word resonate deeply. Their vocal choices paint a vivid picture and evoke emotions that listeners can relate to.
Highlight: Rufus Wainwright’s Technique
Rufus Wainwright brings a unique approach to his performance, staying in a comfortable chest voice and incorporating a delicate vibrato at the end of his phrases. His emotive expression and mastery over vocal techniques are awe-inspiring, showcasing his ability to stress the right syllables and maintain emotional clarity.
Vocal Techniques at Play
Throughout the performance, both Sara and Rufus demonstrate the intricacies of varying vocal dynamics. By employing different thicknesses of vocal folds, they expertly navigate between softer, breathy tones and more robust, full-bodied sounds without relying on excessive volume. This dynamic range helps keep the listener engaged, reinforcing the conversation-like essence of the song.
Understanding the Importance of Vowel Sounds
Vowel manipulation is an interesting technique demonstrated in the performance. Opening up on vowels allows for an increase in expressiveness, further emphasizing the song’s lyrical narrative. This conscious use of vowels contributes to the immersive storytelling that defines “She Used To Be Mine.”
Exploring Harmony
The harmony in this duet is another mesmerizing component. When Rufus’s voice seamlessly blends above Sara’s, it creates a tight, beautiful harmonic interaction. This layer of complexity adds richness to the song, making it feel like a shared journey.
Lessons in Vocal Technique
Breath Control
Effective breath control remains pivotal for any singer. Sara showcases a perfect balance in breath management, transitioning smoothly between chest voice and falsetto while maintaining requisite vocal stability.
Polishing Your Performance
True artistry involves bringing oneself into the performance, going beyond technical perfection to allow vulnerability and genuine emotion to shine through. This concept is emphasized repeatedly and is a core takeaway for aspiring singers.
Enhancing Your Singing Journey
If you wish to master these vocal techniques and incorporate them into your own singing, my online Vocal Academy is here to support your journey. Learn how to manage transitions between chest voice and head voice, find your unique mix, and conquer the passaggio.
Join me for a transformative singing experience, and start leveraging the tools in your vocal toolbox today. Whether through group lessons or personalized one-on-one coaching, elevate your singing and let your voice truly shine.
The Heart of Vocal Performance
Watching Sara Bareilles and Rufus Wainwright perform “She Used To Be Mine” is more than just witnessing vocal talent. It is an experience that transcends music, teaching us the indispensable role emotions play in art. Thank you for joining me on this exploration of vocal craftsmanship. Remember, your voice is your greatest instrument—embrace it, hone it, and let it reflect your emotions.