Mastering the "Drunk" Aesthetic
Drunk in Love is a masterclass in modern R&B vocal styling. Released on Beyoncé's self-titled 2013 visual album, it combines Trap beats with Middle Eastern-influenced scales and aggressive belting. The challenge isn't just hitting the notes—it's matching the swagger.
To sing this well, you need to be comfortable switching between a "rap-sung" cadence in your lower register and a full-throated mix in the climax. Let's break down exactly how to tackle the specific techniques Beyoncé employs.
AI Coach Tip: The "Slur" Technique
The song is called Drunk in Love for a reason. Beyoncé intentionally slurs words and drags behind the beat. However, maintain your pitch center! Don't let the "loose" feeling make you flat.
Phase 1: The Eastern Scale Run (0:00 - 0:45)
The song opens with the line "I've been drinking, I've been drinking." This melody relies on a scale similar to the Phrygian Dominant or Hijaz scale, common in Arabic music. It requires incredible agility.
The Trap: Many singers rush this run. The AI Coach detects that the melisma (many notes for one syllable) needs to be distinct. Practice the run on a "Nu" sound to keep the placement forward before adding the lyrics back in.
Phase 2: Rap-Singing & Attitude (Verses)
In the verses ("Cigars on ice..."), the melody sits in a low, speech-like register. This is less about melody and more about rhythm.
- Rhythmic Precision: Treat your voice like a percussion instrument. Lock in with the 808 bass drum.
- Vocal Fry: Beyoncé uses a healthy amount of vocal fry (a creaky sound) at the bottom of her range to add texture. Use this sparingly to avoid fatigue.
Phase 3: The Climax & Surfboard (3:30 - End)
The energy explodes in the final section. "We be all night" creates a wall of sound requiring a strong mixed voice up to F5. This is followed by the iconic "Surfboard" line.
On "Surfboard," execute a slow downward glissando (slide). Start with a lot of vocal fry and slide the pitch down while maintaining the "er" vowel sound. It's almost a growl. It requires relaxing the vocal cords while maintaining airflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted chest/mix note is an F5 during the climax ("Love!"). There are background harmonies that go higher into the head voice.
For the vocal score in Singing Coach AI, we focus on Beyoncé's parts. However, learning the breath control for the rap section is excellent training for your rhythmic accuracy.
Slow it down. Use the app's tempo changer to practice the runs at 50% speed. Ensure every note in the run is distinct before speeding back up.
