The Defining Ballad of a Generation
"Shallow" is the standout track from the 2018 film A Star Is Born. It won the Oscar for Best Original Song and became an instant classic due to the raw chemistry between Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. Musically, it blends folk, country, and rock, shifting from intimate acoustic verses to a massive, roaring crescendo.
To sing this well, you need versatility. You must master the conversational, grounded tone of the verses and the open-throated power of the bridge. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Don't Rush the Power
Many singers push too hard too early. Our analysis shows that keeping the verses breathy and intimate creates a stronger contrast for the bridge, increasing your overall dynamics score.
Phase 1: The Verses (G2 - A4)
Bradley Cooper starts the song in G Major. His section ("Tell me somethin', girl") requires a rich, chest-dominant resonance. It should feel like speaking on pitch.
The Trap: When Gaga enters ("Tell me somethin', boy"), singers often try to belt immediately. Keep it contained. Use a clear tone but save the volume. Listen to how Gaga scoops into notes gently rather than attacking them.
Phase 2: The Chorus (Harmonies)
The chorus "I'm off the deep end, watch as I dive in" introduces the main hook. If you are singing solo, you will likely take the melody. If you are singing a duet, balance is key.
- Phrasing: Note the syncopation. The words "watch as I dive in" need to be rhythmic and precise.
- Dynamics: Begin the first chorus at a medium volume (mezzo-forte). Save the full power for the final chorus.
Phase 3: The Bridge Belt (The "Gaga Roar")
This is the moment everyone waits for. The song builds, the drums kick in, and Gaga belts a vocal run starting on "Haaa-aaa-aaa-aaah." This hits a powerful D5 in mixed voice.
To hit this without straining, you need to drop your jaw and use "open throat" technique. Do not squeeze the sound. Think of shouting "Hey!" across a street to engage your diaphragm support. This allows the sound to resonate in your mask (face) rather than getting stuck in your throat.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is a D5 during the bridge (sung by Lady Gaga). The vocal run touches on an E5 in head voice/falsetto.
The song is moderately difficult due to the dynamic range. The verses are accessible, but the bridge requires a developed mixed voice to hit the high belts with power.
Yes! Many singers perform it solo by singing the lower octave for the first verse and the higher octave for the second verse and chorus.
