Mastering Emotional Rawness
Released on the 2013 album Bangerz, "Wrecking Ball" is one of the defining power ballads of the 2010s. It showcases Miley Cyrus's transition from teen idol to a mature artist with a gritty, powerful vocal signature. The song is deceptive; it starts intimate and fragile but explodes into a stadium-sized chorus.
To sing this well, you need more than just power. You need control over the "break" in your voice and the ability to navigate from a low F3 up to a belted Bb4 without straining. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Low Notes
Many singers go flat on the verses because the key is quite low (D minor). Ensure you have enough breath support even on the quiet notes like "We clawed, we chained" to maintain pitch accuracy.
Phase 1: The Verses (F3 - A4)
The song begins with a minimal arrangement. Miley uses a very spoken, chest-heavy tone here. The challenge is clarity at a low volume.
The Trap: Don't fry your voice too much. While Miley has a natural rasp, trying to force a "growl" on the low F3 notes can damage your vocal cords. Aim for a clean tone first, then add texture stylistically.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (Building Tension)
The line "Don't you ever say I just walked away" marks the shift in energy. You need to begin lifting your soft palate here.
- Breath Control: Take a deep, low breath before "I will always want you."
- Placement: Move the resonance from your chest slightly forward into the "mask" of your face to prepare for the higher notes coming in the chorus.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (Bb4)
This is the iconic moment. "I came in like a wrecking ball" hits a powerful Bb4. This is a high belt for many alto and mezzo singers.
To hit this note safely, drop your jaw vertically to create space. If you smile too wide, you will tighten your throat. Modify the vowel sound on "Ball" towards "Ah" or "Uh" (like "Wrecking Bull") to keep the larynx neutral and the tone full.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted chest-voice note in the chorus is a Bb4. However, the vocal melody touches D5 in head voice/falsetto moments during the ad-libs and harmonies.
Yes, it is considered difficult due to the wide dynamic range. It requires a strong lower register for the verses and powerful breath support for the sustained belting in the chorus.
Miley has a natural rasp, but you can simulate it safely using "vocal fry" at the onset of phrases in the low register. Do not grind your throat to force the sound; if it hurts, stop immediately.
