A 90s Alternative Anthem
High and Dry is a staple of Radiohead's 1995 album The Bends. While the instrumentation is acoustic and straightforward, the vocal performance by Thom Yorke is iconic for its emotional vulnerability and technical precision. The song relies heavily on the contrast between the grounded verses and the soaring, falsetto-driven chorus.
To sing this well, you need to master the "flip" into your head voice without losing volume or intensity. It requires a delicate balance of breath support and relaxation in the throat. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Pitch Jumps
The transition from the pre-chorus to the chorus involves a significant jump in register. Our analysis shows users often go sharp when anticipating the high note. Relax your jaw and let the air do the work.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:56)
The song begins in E major. The verses ("Two jumps in a week...") sit in a comfortable mid-range for Tenors, hovering around G#3 and B3. The key here is a conversational tone.
The Trap: Many singers try to add too much "grit" too early. Thom Yorke's delivery is clean and slightly weary. Keep the volume at a moderate level (mezzo-piano) to allow room for the chorus to grow.
Phase 2: The Chorus (0:56 - 1:24)
This is the signature moment. The line "Don't leave me high, don't leave me dry" requires a clean switch to falsetto (head voice), hitting an E5. This is the emotional peak of the song.
- The Vowel Shape: Modify the "High" vowel to be slightly taller (more like "Hah-ee") to help access the upper register without squeezing.
- Falsetto Strength: This isn't a weak, breathy falsetto. It needs core support. Engage your diaphragm to keep the tone ringing and clear.
Phase 3: The Outro (3:25 - End)
The song concludes with repeated lines and sustained notes. The challenge here is breath control. As the energy of the song fades, ensure you don't run out of air at the end of phrases. Keep the support engaged even as you sing softer.
Listen closely to how the guitar solo interacts with the vocal melody, and try to match the melancholy vibe of the instrumentals.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest note is an E5, sung in falsetto during the chorus. The verses stay much lower, mostly in the third octave.
You can try, but it will change the character of the song significantly. The vulnerability of the falsetto is key to the song's emotional impact. If it's too high, try transposing down -2 semitones in the app.
Cracking happens when the muscles around the larynx tighten during the register switch. Practice the jump from the pre-chorus to the chorus slowly on a "Lip Trill" to smooth out the bridge between chest and head voice.
