The Ultimate Survivor's Anthem
I’m Still Standing is a definitive 80s pop-rock hit from Elton John's Too Low for Zero album. Unlike a slow ballad, this song is a test of vocal agility and stamina. The driving rhythm means there is very little space to breathe, making breath management your top priority.
To sing this well, you need to combine the resonance of a Baritone with the punchy attack of a rock singer. The song sits comfortably in the chest voice but demands consistent energy from start to finish. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the tempo is fast (approx 174 BPM), singers often slur words in the verses. Our analysis shows that crisp consonant articulation on lines like "blood like winter freezes" improves timing scores significantly.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Rhythmic)
The verses begin in B♭ minor, giving them a slightly darker feel. Elton sings heavily in his lower chest register here (down to F2). The melody is conversational but rhythmic.
The Trap: It's easy to get lazy with pitch on the low notes. Ensure you are fully supporting the tone on "You could never know what it's like," or the vocals will sound muddy and flat.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Climb
As the song builds to "And if our love was just a circus," the melody rises. You need to start lifting your soft palate here to brighten the tone. This section acts as a ramp, launching you into the major-key chorus.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt
The chorus shifts to B♭ Major and the energy explodes. The line "I'm still standing" requires a confident chest belt. The "Yeah, yeah, yeah" hook is iconic—it needs to be sung with attitude and forward placement ("twang") to cut through the mix.
Don't push too hard on the G4s. If you force the air, you will fatigue quickly. Instead, rely on diaphragm support to maintain the power without throat tension.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is a G4 in the chorus and ad-libs. The verses go down to a resonant F2.
Yes. While Elton is a Baritone, the range is very accessible for Tenors. Tenors may find the low F2 in the verses the hardest part, but they will shine on the high chorus belts.
Identify the quick breath stops at the end of punctuation lines. Practice "snatching" a breath quickly through your mouth rather than your nose to get air in faster between the rapid-fire lyrics.
