A Masterclass in Vocal Contrast
Feel Good Inc. is defined by the stark contrast between two vocal styles: the melancholic, "radio-filtered" singing of 2D (Damon Albarn) and the aggressive, high-energy rap of De La Soul. Released on the 2005 album Demon Days, this track requires you to be a shapeshifter.
To score high on this track, you need to master the "lazy" articulation of the verses without losing pitch accuracy, and then instantly switch gears to rhythmic precision for the laugh and rap sections.
AI Coach Tip: The "Megaphone" Effect
2D's vocals sound distant because they are EQ'd like a telephone. When singing the verses, do not belt. Keep your volume low and your tone flat to mimic this compression naturally.
Phase 1: The Verses (City's Breaking Down)
The verses are sung in a lower register with a distinct lack of energy—this is intentional. The melody hovers around the E♭ minor pentatonic scale. The challenge isn't hitting high notes; it's staying perfectly in time with the bassline while sounding bored.
The Trap: Singers often over-enunciate here. Relax your jaw. Let the words blur slightly into one another ("Windmill, windmill for the land"). Ideally, use a breathy chest voice.
Phase 2: The Acoustic Chorus
During the "Windmill" section, the heavy bass drops out for acoustic guitars. Here, you should switch to a lighter, clearer tone. This provides the emotional lift of the song. Focus on pure vowels and sustained notes, contrasting the staccato nature of the rest of the track.
Phase 3: The Rap & The Laugh
De La Soul's entry is iconic. It starts with a manic laugh that must be rhythmic. Don't just laugh randomly; the laughter acts as a percussion instrument on the downbeats.
- Breath Control: The rap section is dense. "Love forever, love is freely / Turned forever, you and me." You need to take quick, snatch breaths between couplets.
- Rhythm: The rap flows slightly behind the beat (layback) to give it a funky feel. If you are too rigid, it will sound robotic.
Frequently Asked Questions
The melodic singing reaches up to a G4 in the chest/mix voice during the chorus harmonies, though much of 2D's part sits comfortably in the 3rd octave.
To perform the full version, yes. However, Singing Coach AI allows you to select "Melodic Only" mode if you want to focus solely on 2D's singing parts.
Engage your diaphragm violently, almost like you are coughing. It should come from the belly, not the throat, to avoid irritation.
