The Ultimate Pop Vocal Workout
Released in 2014 as part of the My Everything album, "Break Free" (feat. Zedd) marked a shift for Ariana Grande into electronic dance music. The song is deceptive; the driving beat hides a technically demanding vocal line that sits relentlessly in the upper middle register (passaggio) before exploding into high belts.
To sing this well, you need endurance. The chorus requires you to sustain power notes while navigating rapid melodic changes. Let's break down how to tackle this EDM powerhouse.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Ariana is famous for her unique, sometimes slurred diction to facilitate better resonance. However, our analysis shows that users score higher when they slightly over-enunciate the consonants in the verses to maintain rhythmic precision against the electronic beat.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low Control)
The song begins in G Minor. The opening lines ("If you want it, take it") sit in a lower, more conversational range (G3-Bb3). The challenge here isn't pitch, but tone. You want a breathy, confident texture without losing volume.
The Trap: Don't get too comfortable. The verses are short, and the pre-chorus ramps up quickly. Keep your soft palate raised to be ready for the ascent.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Climb
The lyrics "I only want to die alive" mark the transition. You are climbing out of the chest voice and into a mixed voice. This section builds tension.
- Resonance: Shift your resonance from your chest to your "mask" (nose/cheekbones).
- Dynamics: Don't give 100% volume yet. Save your air for the drop.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (High Energy)
This is the workout. The line "This is the part when I say I don't want ya" requires a strong, sustained belt hitting D5 and peaking at E5.
To hit the E5 safely, you must engage your core (breath support) heavily. Do not reach up with your chin; keep your head level. Imagine singing down onto the note rather than reaching up for it. This mental trick helps prevent throat constriction.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note in the main melody is an E5. There are ad-libs and harmonies that go higher, but mastering the E5 is key for a high score.
Ariana is a Soprano, but Mezzo-Sopranos can handle this with a strong mix. If you are an Alto or Male vocalist, try transposing the song down -3 or -5 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app.
The phrases are long. Plan your breaths. Take a quick, deep "catch breath" after "want ya" and "stronger" to refuel without breaking the flow.
