The Anthem of Inner Turmoil
"Demons" is one of Imagine Dragons' most enduring hits, known for its slow-building tension and explosive chorus. Dan Reynolds delivers a performance that balances vulnerability in the verses with raw power in the hook.
To sing this well, you need to master dynamic contrast. If you sing the verse too loudly, the chorus won't have the impact it needs. The track sits in Eb Major and relies heavily on a chest-dominant mix to achieve that signature "stadium rock" sound.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Breathing
The chorus lines are long and sustained. Our analysis shows singers often run out of air before "kingdom come." Take a deep, low breath from your diaphragm right before the line "When you feel my heat."
Phase 1: The Verse (0:00 - 0:48)
The song begins in a lower register (Eb3). The goal here is intimacy. Keep your larynx neutral and your volume low (mezzo-piano).
The Trap: Many singers lose clarity when singing softly. Ensure you are enunciating the consonants in "When the days are cold" so the lyrics don't sound mumbled. Think of this as storytelling.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (0:48 - 1:07)
The energy shifts on "Don't want to let you down." You need to start adding vocal compression here. The pitch rises slightly, and the intensity should grow to prepare the listener for the drop.
- Rhythm: The phrasing becomes more staccato. Lock in with the drum beat.
- Volume: Increase from mezzo-piano to mezzo-forte.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (1:07 - 1:44)
This is the centerpiece of the song. "This is my kingdom come" hits a powerful Bb4. This is a classic rock belt.
To hit this safely, do not yell. Use "twang" (a brighter, brassier tone quality) to help your voice cut through the mix without forcing air through your vocal cords. Engage your core muscles to support the sustained notes on "Demons" and "Hide."
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal hits a Bb4 during the chorus belt. Background harmonies and ad-libs may go higher, but the core melody tops out there.
This song is perfect for Baritones and lower Tenors. It sits right in the "money zone" for a Baritone's high belt, allowing for a powerful, thick tone.
If your throat hurts, you are likely pushing from your throat instead of your body. Try practicing the chorus on a "Nay" sound to find the right placement before singing the lyrics.
