The World's Best-Selling Single
This historic double A-side release captures two very different sides of Elton John's vocal capability. "Candle In The Wind 1997" is a somber, restrained tribute that requires immense emotional control, while "Something About The Way You Look Tonight" demands a smoother, romantic crooning style.
To sing these songs effectively, you need to master the art of storytelling. It isn't about hitting high notes with power; it's about coloring your tone to match the lyrics. Let's break down the technique.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Conversational)
The song starts in the lower register. The opening line, "Goodbye England's Rose," sits low in the chest voice for most singers. The danger here is "bottoming out" or losing clarity on the lowest notes.
Technique: Keep your larynx neutral. If you try to force the low notes by pressing your chin down, you will lose resonance. Instead, think of speaking the lyrics on pitch rather than "singing" them.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Emotional Lift)
As the melody ascends to "And it seems to me you lived your life," you need to brighten the tone. This is where the song transitions from a private conversation to a public eulogy.
- Breath Support: The phrases are long. Ensure you take a deep, low diaphragmatic breath before "Like a candle in the wind."
- Vowel Shaping: On the word "wind," modify the vowel slightly towards "weh-nd" to keep the throat open and avoid a pinched sound.
Phase 3: Something About The Way You Look Tonight
On the flip side of the record, this track is all about "legato"—smooth, connected singing. The challenge here is the jump in the chorus ("There's something about..."). This typically sits in the "passaggio" (break area) for many male voices.
To navigate this, practice sliding between notes (glissando) to ensure your airflow remains constant. Do not chop the words up; let them flow into one another like a river.