The Ultimate "Friend Zone" Anthem
"Friends" is a masterclass in attitude. Released in 2018 by Marshmello and Anne-Marie, this track blends EDM beats with an acoustic guitar loop. Vocal-wise, it’s deceptive. It sounds easy because it is conversational, but maintaining that "talk-singing" style without falling off pitch or losing rhythm is a challenge.
To sing this well, you need to channel frustration and sass. The lyrics are direct—you are spelling it out (literally) for someone. Let's break down exactly how to tackle the verses, the spelling-bee chorus, and the ad-libs.
AI Coach Tip: Diction is Everything
Because the song is fast, many singers slur the words. Our analysis shows that users who over-pronounce their consonants—specifically the 't's and 'd's—score 15% higher on timing accuracy.
Phase 1: The Verses (Conversational Tone)
The song begins in A Minor. The opening lines ("You say you love me, I say you crazy") sit in a low, comfortable range (G3-C4). The goal here is not to sound "pretty"—it is to sound real.
The Trap: Many singers try to add vibrato here. Don't. Keep the tone straight and dry. Treat it almost like spoken word poetry over a beat.
Phase 2: The Spelling Chorus (Rhythm)
This is the hook: "F-R-I-E-N-D-S." This section requires rhythmic precision. You are acting as a percussion instrument here.
- Staccato: Each letter needs to be short and detached. Think of a typewriter.
- Breath Control: You don't have much time to breathe between the spelling and "That's how you f***ing spell friends." Take a quick, silent sip of air before the spelling starts.
- Pitch: Even though you are spelling, there is a melody. Ensure you aren't just shouting the letters; stay locked into the A Minor scale.
Phase 3: The High Energy Ad-libs
Towards the end of the song and in the post-chorus, Anne-Marie introduces higher ad-libs ("Ah, ah-oh") reaching up to E5. These should be sung with a "mix" voice—a blend of chest and head resonance.
If you push your chest voice too hard here, it will sound like yelling. Instead, think of placing the sound forward in your "mask" (the front of your face/nose area) to get that piercing, bright pop quality without the strain.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is an E5 during the ad-libs. The main melody mostly stays below C5.
Smile slightly while singing and focus on sharp consonant attacks. Imagine you are actually arguing with someone who won't take a hint.
Yes, but the verses might feel a bit low. Focus on good breath support to keep the low notes audible. You'll shine on the high ad-libs.
