The Ultimate Power Ballad Challenge
"It’s All Coming Back to Me Now" is the quintessential Jim Steinman power ballad: over-the-top, incredibly long, and vocally demanding. Recorded by Celine Dion for her 1996 album Falling into You, this song requires a singer to navigate intense emotional highs and lows. It is not just about hitting high notes; it is about stamina.
To sing this effectively, you must treat it like a three-act play. You cannot start at 100% volume, or you will have nowhere to go by the time the final key change hits. Let’s break down the strategy.
AI Coach Tip: Conserve Your Breath
The verses are long and wordy. Our analysis shows users often run out of air before the end of phrases like "There were moments of gold, and there were flashes of light." Practice diaphragmatic breathing to sustain these lines without gasping.
Phase 1: The Haunted Intro (0:00 - 2:15)
The song begins in C Minor with a stormy, atmospheric feel. Celine uses a very light, almost whispery tone here. The range sits low (around G3-Bb3).
The Trap: Do not belt this section. Keep it intimate. Use "vocal fry" sparingly at the ends of phrases to add emotion, but ensure your pitch remains centered. The storytelling is key here.
Phase 2: The Build-Up (2:15 - 5:00)
As the drums kick in, you need to transition from head voice/soft chest to a firm mix. The lyrics "But when you touch me like this" require a forward placement. You are building tension.
- Dynamic Control: Increase volume gradually. Think of it as walking up a hill, not jumping off a cliff.
- Vowel Modification: On words like "touch" and "kiss," drop your jaw to create more space. This prevents the sound from becoming nasal.
Phase 3: The Climax (5:00 - End)
This is the "Olympic" section of the song. The modulation to F Major brings the melody up to a sustained F5 belt. This is where most singers crack or strain.
To hit the F5 on "And if you...", you must use a "cry" vocal quality. Tilt your thyroid cartilage slightly (the whimpering puppy sensation) to thin out the vocal cords while maintaining chest connection. This allows you to reach the high notes with power but without the damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is an F5 (in the final chorus). There are also ad-libs and harmonies that may go higher depending on the version.
This is an advanced track due to its length and range. Beginners are advised to practice the "Radio Edit" version first and transpose the key down -2 or -3 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app.
Throat pain indicates constriction. Ensure you are supporting from your diaphragm and not squeezing your neck muscles. If it hurts, stop immediately and rest.
