Mastering the Modern Funk Duet
"Brand New" is a standout track from Pharrell Williams' 2014 album G I R L, featuring Justin Timberlake. The song is a masterclass in modern funk, drawing heavy inspiration from the vocal stylings of Michael Jackson. It is characterized by its infectious groove, tight rhythmic phrasing, and extensive use of the upper register.
To sing this track effectively, you need more than just pitch accuracy. You need "pocket." The vocals act almost like a percussion instrument, weaving in and out of the beat. The main challenge lies in maintaining a clean, sustainable falsetto for nearly five minutes without sounding thin or breathless.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Airflow
A common mistake on "Brand New" is pushing too much air on the high notes. This creates a "breathy" tone that lacks definition. Focus on a focused, "buzzy" feeling in your nasal resonance to keep the falsetto bright and piercing.
Phase 1: The Verse Groove
The song starts with a rhythmic vocal delivery. When Pharrell sings, the notes are short and staccato. You shouldn't drag the vowels out. The key is in the consonants—make them crisp and sharp.
The Trap: It's easy to get lazy with the timing. The AI Coach detects if you are singing "behind the beat." Stay right on top of the snare drum hits to capture that energetic funk feel.
Phase 2: The Falsetto Chorus
The chorus lifts into a sustained high register. This is where the Michael Jackson influence shines. The challenge here is consistency. You are hovering around E4 and B4, often flipping up to E5.
- I feel brand new: This phrase needs to soar. Keep your soft palate lifted (like you are suppressing a yawn) to create space for the sound.
- Harmonies: There are tight harmonic layers here. If you are singing lead, focus on the top line. If you are practicing backing vocals, lock into the thirds.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Beatbox
The song features a breakdown where the rhythm becomes even more syncopated. Justin Timberlake's entry adds a smoother, R&B texture compared to Pharrell's sharper delivery. When singing the bridge, try to relax the jaw and allow for a slightly warmer tone, while still keeping the placement high in the mask of the face.
Frequently Asked Questions
The melody frequently hits an E5 in falsetto. There are ad-libs that may go even higher depending on the specific run.
For this style, yes. Singing this in a heavy chest voice (belting) would ruin the "light and funky" vibe of the track. If you struggle with falsetto, use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the song down.
Pharrell uses a very forward, nasal placement. Try smiling while you sing (the "smile technique") to brighten your tone naturally.
