The Definitive Power Ballad Challenge
Halo is one of Beyoncé's most iconic vocal performances. Released on her I Am... Sasha Fierce album, this track is a masterclass in dynamics, building from a breathy, intimate lower register to a thunderous, stadium-filling belt.
To sing this well, you need more than just high notes. You need control. The song's structure is repetitive, which means your emotional delivery and vocal texture must evolve as the song progresses to keep it engaging. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Vowel Modification
On the high "Halo" notes, modify the "O" vowel slightly towards "Uh" or "Aw". A pure "O" closes the throat, making the high notes feel tight. Opening the vowel creates more resonance and reduces strain.
Phase 1: The Low Verses (0:00 - 0:48)
The song begins in A Major with a focus on the lower register (A3). The line "Remember those walls I built" sits in a comfortable range, but requires breathiness to convey vulnerability.
The Trap: Many singers lose support when singing quietly in the lower range. Keep your diaphragm engaged even when singing softly to avoid going flat on the notes.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Climb (0:48 - 1:10)
As the melody shifts to "Hit me like a ray of sun," the intensity grows. You are moving from chest voice into a mixed voice territory. This section is all about building tension before the release of the chorus.
Focus on forward placement here. Imagine directing the sound to the mask of your face to get that piercing, bright quality that cuts through the reverb.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (1:10 - 1:52)
This is the main event. The word "Halo" is repeated on a descending melody starting from C#5. Beyoncé uses a powerful chest-dominant mix here.
To sustain these notes without damaging your voice, rely on "anchoring." engage your back muscles (lats) to support the sound. Do not push from the throat. The ad-libs in the final chorus reach up to a belted F#5, which requires elite breath support.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is an F#5 during the vocal runs and ad-libs. The main chorus melody stays primarily between A4 and E5.
Yes, Sopranos will find the chorus very comfortable. However, the verses might feel a bit low. Focus on chest resonance to make the low notes audible.
Beyoncé has a fast, shimmer-like vibrato. Practice sustaining a straight tone and then relaxing the larynx to let the natural oscillation happen at the very end of the phrase.
