The Cinematic Jazz Powerhouse
While originally a torch song written for Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Bublé's version of Cry Me a River (famously used as the opening theme for his album Crazy Love) transforms it into a Bond-style cinematic epic. It begins with dramatic brass and suspense, requiring the singer to command the stage immediately.
To sing this well, you need more than just pitch accuracy; you need attitude. The arrangement demands a strong lower register for the verses and a powerful, open-throated mix for the explosive climax. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Dynamics
A common mistake is singing the first verse too loudly. Bublé starts very dark and restrained. Our analysis shows that users who maintain a steady volume in the verse score lower on "Expression" than those who build gradually.
Phase 1: The Intro (0:00 - 1:20)
The song opens in G Minor with a heavy, orchestral feel. The vocal entry on "Now you say you're lonely" sits low in the Baritone range (around G2/A2). You need a rich, chest-dominant resonance here.
The Technique: Focus on legato phrasing. Connect your words smoothly. Avoid "popping" the microphone on the plosive sounds like 'P' and 'B'. Keep the jaw relaxed to ensure the low notes project without sounding gravelly.
Phase 2: The Build Up (1:20 - 2:45)
As the brass section kicks in, you must increase your volume. However, do not shout. Use "appoggio" breath support to increase the pressure from your diaphragm while keeping your throat open.
- Articulation: Bublé uses very crisp consonants here to cut through the big band arrangement.
- Vowel Modification: As you climb higher, narrow your vowels slightly to maintain a crooner tone rather than a rock sound.
Phase 3: The Climax (2:45 - End)
This is the moment everyone waits for. The music swells, and you belt "Come on and cry me a river!" hitting a sustained G#4. This note must be full and resonant.
To hit this safely, think of placing the sound "forward" in the mask of your face (the nose and cheekbones). If you swallow the sound, you will lose pitch. The final sustained note requires significant breath stamina, so take a deep, low breath before the final phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
In Michael Bublé's version, the highest belted chest-voice note is a G#4 during the final climax. There are ad-libs that may go higher depending on the live version.
It is intermediate. The notes themselves aren't extremely high, but the *control* required to make it sound good is difficult. Beginners often run out of breath on the long phrases.
The crooner sound comes from a lowered larynx and good breath support. Imagine you are holding an egg in the back of your throat to create space, resulting in a warmer, darker tone.
