Mastering Melancholy and Precision
"Here Comes the Rain Again" is a masterclass in controlled emotion. Released on Eurythmics' 1983 album Touch, the song blends the cold, mechanical feel of synthesizers with the warmth of an orchestra and Annie Lennox's soulful voice. The track is set in A minor, creating a naturally somber but beautiful atmosphere.
Unlike power ballads that rely on high belts, this song requires a grounded, resonant chest voice. You need to focus on sustain, straight tone, and subtle vibrato at the end of phrases. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Phrasing is Key
Annie Lennox uses very specific phrasing. She often starts phrases slightly behind the beat and uses a 'talk-singing' quality in the verses. Don't rush the lyrics; let them sit in the groove.
Phase 1: The Haunting Verses
The song opens with the iconic line "Here comes the rain again." This sits in the lower part of the female range (A3). The goal here is clarity without heaviness.
The Technique: Use a light chest voice. If you push too hard, you'll sound angry rather than melancholic. Think of the sound resonating in your sternum (chest bone) but keep the diction crisp, especially on the 't' and 'k' sounds.
Phase 2: The Chorus (Open Up)
When the line "So baby talk to me" arrives, the melody lifts. The vowels need to open up vertically.
- "Talk to me": Drop your jaw slightly more than you would in speech. This creates the space needed for the resonance to bloom.
- "Like lovers do": Be careful not to close your throat on the 'oo' vowel. Keep the soft palate lifted (like a yawn) to maintain a warm tone.
- Dynamics: This section should be sung at a mezzo-forte (medium loud) volume, contrasting with the softer verses.
Phase 3: The Bridge and Ad-libs
As the song progresses, Lennox adds more intensity and improvisation. The bridge allows for more grit and volume. The repetition of "Here comes the rain" towards the end should vary in intensity.
Experiment with your mix voice here. You want the power of chest voice but the ease of head voice to navigate the C5 notes without straining.
Frequently Asked Questions
The core melody reaches up to a C5 in the chest/mix voice. There are ad-libs and harmonies that may float slightly higher depending on the version.
Annie Lennox is generally considered a Contralto or a low Mezzo-Soprano. Her voice is known for its rich, dark low end and powerful belt.
It's a balance called "aspirated onset." Practice starting the note with a tiny bit of air (an 'h' sound) before the vocal cords come together fully. The Singing Coach AI app can visualize your breath flow to help you master this.
