From "Arcane" to Vocal Anthem
Released as the title track for the Arcane series, "Enemy" blends alternative rock with rapid-fire hip-hop. Dan Reynolds delivers a moody, tension-filled performance that explodes into a belt, while JID provides a highly technical rap verse that challenges breath control and diction.
This song is a workout for your diaphragm. The key is managing the dynamic shift between the suppressed anger of the verses and the explosive release of the chorus.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Timing
The most common mistake on "Enemy" isn't pitch—it's rhythm. The verses are sung slightly behind the beat (laid back), while the rap section requires razor-sharp precision. Use the app's visualizer to lock in your timing.
Phase 1: The Staccato Verse
The song starts with "Look out for yourself." This sits comfortably in the chest register (around A2 to B3). The delivery should be punchy and staccato (detached notes).
The Trap: Don't get too "breathy" here. While the mood is dark, the vocal cords need to remain adducted (closed) to create that sense of suppressed tension. If you add too much air, you will run out of breath before the phrase ends.
Phase 2: The Chorus Belt
When the line "Oh the misery" hits, the energy shifts. This is a classic Imagine Dragons shout-belt. You need to access your mixed voice to hit the higher notes with power without straining.
- Resonance: Place the sound forward in the "mask" of your face.
- Vowels: Modify the vowels to be more open. "Misery" should feel more like "Meh-seh-ry" to help you sustain the note.
- Dynamics: This should be forte (loud). Don't hold back.
Phase 3: JID's Rap Verse
This is the technical hurdle. JID uses a triplet flow that speeds up significantly. Clarity is more important than speed here. If you slur the words, the rhythm falls apart.
To practice this, recite the lyrics slowly while exaggerating the movement of your lips and tongue. Gradually increase the speed only when your articulation is perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal belt reaches a B4 on "Everybody wants to be my enemy." There are falsetto ad-libs and harmonies that reach up to D5.
Map out your breaths. Mark exactly where you will inhale on the lyrics sheet. Taking small "sips" of air quickly is more effective here than trying to take one giant breath.
The singing sections are intermediate, but the rap section is advanced. You can use the Singing Coach AI app to isolate just the singing parts if you aren't ready for the rap verse.
