The Ultimate "Feel Good" Anthem
"I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz is more than just a catchy ukulele tune; it's a masterclass in relaxed vocal delivery and rhythmic phrasing. Released in 2008 on the album We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things., it holds the record for the most weeks spent on the Billboard Hot 100.
To sing this well, you need to abandon the need for power and focus entirely on groove. Mraz sings with a conversational tone, often playing with the timing by singing slightly behind the beat (back-phrasing). Let's break down exactly how to tackle the reggae-pop style.
AI Coach Tip: Don't Rush
The number one mistake users make is rushing the tempo. The song sits at 76 BPM with a swung reggae feel. Focus on landing your consonants exactly on the off-beat chops to maintain the pocket.
Phase 1: The Verses (Conversational Tone)
The song starts in B Major. The opening lines, "Well, you done done me and you bet I felt it," come fast. You must use light chest resonance.
The Trap: Because there are so many words packed into each bar, singers often run out of breath or sound frantic. Keep your jaw loose and prioritize crisp articulation over volume. Think of it as rhythmic speaking on pitch.
Phase 2: The Chorus (Falsetto Flips)
The chorus ("I won't hesitate...") brings in the melodic hooks. The key technique here is the "flip."
- Falsetto Transitions: Mraz frequently flips into his head voice for single notes to add texture, particularly on words like "free" or melodic turns.
- Open Throat: Keep the larynx neutral. If you raise your chin to reach the notes, you lose the warm, acoustic tone required for the style.
- Vowel Modification: Round out the "O" in "Open up your mind" to keep the tone resonant rather than nasal.
Phase 3: The Scat Bridge (2:55 - 3:15)
This is the hardest technical part of the song. The bridge breaks down into a scatting section ("Do do do do..."). It requires instrumental precision from your voice.
To nail this, treat your voice like a trumpet. Keep the air pressure consistent but use your tongue to stop and start the sound rapidly. The intervals jump quickly between chest and head voice, so keep your mix light to stay agile.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest chest/mix note is generally a G#4, though Mraz uses falsetto flourishes that go higher (around B4). Ideally suited for Tenors or high Baritones.
Range-wise, it is accessible (Medium difficulty). The challenge lies in the rhythm, breath control, and the relaxed 'style' which is easy to rush if you aren't careful.
Mraz uses a technique called 'back-phrasing,' where he sings slightly behind the beat to create a relaxed groove. Don't rush the lyrics; let them sit in the pocket.
