A Masterclass in Vocal Vulnerability
"Can I Go On?" from the movie adaptation of The Wiz is a pivotal moment where Diana Ross (as Dorothy) faces her deepest despair before finding the strength to continue. This song requires more than just hitting notes; it requires acting. It transitions from a quiet, almost spoken self-interrogation to a powerful, belted declaration of intent.
To sing this effectively, you must balance breathiness with resonance. The song starts intimately, drawing the listener in, and slowly builds tension until the final release. Let's break down the vocal journey.
AI Coach Tip: Control Your Breath
In the opening verses, focus on a "breathy onset" to create intimacy. However, don't let too much air escape, or you'll run out of breath before the end of the phrase. Keep your support engaged even at low volumes.
Phase 1: The Question (0:00 - 1:20)
The song begins in a lower, conversational register. The lyrics "Is there a future?" and "What am I doing here?" should be sung with a sense of confusion and fragility. Keep your larynx neutral and allow a slight "cry" or "sob" in your voice to convey the emotion.
The Trap: Singers often start too loud. Trust your microphone technique. Lean in closer and sing quietly, preserving your power for the later sections.
Phase 2: The Realization (1:20 - 2:15)
As the instrumentation builds, so should your vocal intensity. You need to transition from a breathy tone to a clearer, more connected chest voice. The melody begins to climb, and you should start using a "mixed voice" to navigate the bridge without flipping into a weak falsetto.
- Clarity: Focus on crisp diction. The audience needs to understand every word of Dorothy's internal monologue.
- Resonance: Move the sound forward into the "mask" of your face to get a brighter tone that cuts through the music.
Phase 3: The Climax (2:15 - End)
This is the moment of triumph. The repeated question "Can I go on?" turns into a rhetorical assertion. You will need to belt here, reaching up to C5 and D5.
To sustain these high notes safely, anchor your body and use your diaphragm for support. Avoid squeezing your throat. Instead, think of "calling out" to someone across the street. This mental image helps engage the correct muscles for a healthy belt.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest sustained belt notes reach a D5 during the emotional climax of the song.
While Diana Ross has a distinct Soul/Pop style, this song borrows heavily from Musical Theatre. Focus on the emotional arc and clear storytelling, and it will sound authentic in any voice type.
Cracking usually happens due to lack of support. Even when singing quietly, your abdominal muscles should be engaged. Practice the "far away" exercise in the Singing Coach AI app to master support at low volumes.
