Vocal Coach Analysis: Tones & I x Eyes Don’t Lie (LIVE)

Tones and I’s acoustic rendition of “Eyes Don’t Lie” offers a captivating display of vocal prowess and emotional delivery.

Beyond the raw energy, there are specific technical choices that contribute to her unique sound. This post delves into the vocal techniques at play, exploring how the artist achieves her signature gritty timbre and powerful expression.

The Foundation: A Distinct Vocal Quality

From the outset, the acoustic version presents a sound that departs from Tones and I’s more widely known pop style.

Here, the focus shifts to a thinner vocal fold or head voice sound, creating a different texture. This choice immediately lends itself to a more intimate and raw vocal quality, setting the tone for the emotional journey of the song.

Crafting Resonance and Edge

A key element in achieving this distinct sound is the manipulation of the resonating cavities within the vocal tract. Tones and I employs techniques that create a pressed vocal fold sound, which can contribute to the characteristic crackle often heard.

This doesn’t necessarily mean vocal strain but rather a specific engagement of the vocal folds and surrounding muscles to produce a textured, “grippier” tone.

• Epiglottis Control: The lowering of the epiglottis plays a significant role. This action narrows the space at the top of the larynx, which can amplify certain frequencies and create the perception of increased loudness without a proportional increase in breath pressure.
  
  This allows for a “harder” sounding vocal without necessarily straining the vocal cords themselves.
  
• Vowel Shaping: The choice of vowel shape is crucial. A closed vowel shape can help to maintain energy and focus, particularly on higher notes. As the song progresses, maintaining this tightness, or strategically opening the vowel shape, impacts the overall resonance and perceived power.

Building Vocal Stamina and Performance Nuances

The transcript highlights Tones and I’s background as a busker, a period that undeniably forged her vocal resilience. Singing for hours in varying conditions builds an incredible amount of stamina.

This experience translates into the ability to deliver consistent vocal intensity, even without the ideal support systems of a studio or controlled stage environment.

• Engaging the Body: Singers often use physical cues to support their sound. In this performance, a slight leaning back allows for greater engagement of the core and back muscles. This physical stabilization helps to thicken the vocal folds and enhance resonance, making it easier to sustain loud and high notes.
  
• Muscle Engagement: The vocal production involves more than just the vocal folds. Various accessory muscles engage to create the desired sound. The subtle tightening at the back of the throat and the involvement of other muscles contribute to the perception of a more “pushed” or intense sound.

The Art of Distortion and Clean Tone

A fascinating aspect of Tones and I’s technique is the deliberate use of what can be described as controlled vocal distortion. This often happens above the vocal fold level, affecting the sound as it passes through the pharynx and oral cavity.

• Breath Management: In instances where a lot of pressure is applied, limiting excessive air is paramount. Pushing too much air can lead to vocal fold fatigue. Tones and I demonstrates an ability to manage her breath to support this pressed sound effectively, suggesting good vocal fold closure.
  
• Distortion vs. Clean Tone: The ability to switch between a distorted, textured sound and a clear, clean tone is a mark of a skilled vocalist. Clean tones come from a regular, unimpeded vibration of the vocal folds.
  
  Distortion is then layered on top. This contrast allows for dynamic range and emotional expression, but also highlights the importance of being able to revert to a clear tone to assess vocal health.

Vocal Health Considerations

While analyzing vocal technique, it’s impossible to ignore the implications for vocal health. Persistent vocal fold swelling, characterized by subtle cracks or a slightly “rattly” sound, can be a sign of overexertion or underlying issues.

The transcript mentions that such sounds are often synonymous with swelling or other conditions such as polyps or nodules. It’s crucial for singers to be aware of these potential signs and, if experiencing them consistently, to consult with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist for proper diagnosis and guidance.

While these conditions don’t always require surgery and can often be managed with vocal training, professional medical advice is key.

In conclusion, Tones and I’s acoustic performance of “Eyes Don’t Lie” is a masterclass in using vocal technique to convey deep emotion. Her deliberate choices in vocal fold engagement, resonance manipulation, and breath control, honed through years of performance, create a sound that is both distinctive and powerfully expressive.