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Song guide

How to sing Bad Habits

Analyze your vocal range against Ed Sheeran's synth-pop hit. Get real-time feedback on falsetto transitions, pitch, and timing.

Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran
Bad HabitsEd Sheeran · 2021
Before you sing

Song DNA

Medium Difficulty
B2 - D5 Vocal Range
Tenor Best Voice Type
B Minor Key Signature
3:51 Duration
Falsetto Register Focus

Mastering the Synth-Pop Pulse

Bad Habits marked a distinct sonic shift for Ed Sheeran, moving from acoustic ballads to high-energy dance-pop. Released as the lead single for his album = (Equals), the song relies heavily on a driving bassline and a persistent falsetto hook. It’s not just about hitting the notes; it’s about maintaining energy.

To sing this well, you need agility. The verses are low and conversational, while the chorus jumps high into the head voice. Let's break down exactly how to tackle the vocal dynamics, section by section.

Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Rhythmic)

The song starts in the lower part of a Tenor's range (down to B2). The lines "Every time you come around, you know I can't say no" should be delivered with a chest-dominant, almost spoken quality.

The Trap: Because it's low, singers tend to get "muddy" or lose volume. Keep your diction crisp and articulate the consonants to cut through the heavy synth bass. Think of it as percussive singing.

Phase 2: The Chorus (The Falsetto Hook)

This is the signature of the song. The line "My bad habits lead to wide eyes stare into space" requires an immediate switch to falsetto or a light head voice.

  • Placement: Feel the sound vibrating in your forehead/mask. If you try to belt this in full chest voice, it will sound too aggressive for the style of the track.
  • Pitch Accuracy: The melody moves quickly. The AI Coach often detects sliding pitch here. Aim to hit the notes squarely in the center rather than sliding up to them.
  • Volume: Keep the volume consistent with the verses. Don't let the falsetto drop too quiet.

Phase 3: The Ad-libs and Outro

Towards the end, Ed adds high vocal runs and ad-libs reaching up to D5. These should be loose and playful. If you are struggling with the range, you can simplify the melody and stick to the main chorus line, which is perfectly acceptable for a cover performance.

Questions answered

Frequently asked questions

What is the highest note in Bad Habits?
The highest note is a D5, found in the ad-libs and falsetto harmonies. The main chorus melody tops out around B4/C#5 in head voice.
Can I sing this if I have a deep voice?
Yes! The verses are actually quite low (B2), which suits Baritones well. For the high chorus, you can either develop your falsetto or transpose the song down -2 or -3 semitones using the Singing Coach AI app.
Head voice vs. Falsetto: Which one?
Ed Sheeran uses a "breathy" falsetto for stylistic effect here. However, for better stability, try using a reinforced head voice (connected cords) so you don't lose too much air.
Put it into practice

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Record this song in Singing Coach AI for feedback on pitch, timing, breath support and technique.

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