Mastering the Modern Classic
Originally recorded by Nat King Cole, Michael Bublé's version of L-O-V-E brings a punchy, big-band energy to the jazz standard. While the notes themselves sit comfortably in a Baritone's "money zone" (Bb2 to F4), the real challenge lies in the delivery: charisma, phrasing, and breath control.
Bublé doesn't just sing the notes; he "chews" on the words and slides between pitches with a technique known as portamento. Let's break down how to get that smooth, expensive sound.
AI Coach Tip: Back-Phrasing
Jazz singers often sing slightly behind the beat. If you sing perfectly on the grid (quantized), you will sound robotic. Our AI detects if you are too rigid—try to relax and let the band lead slightly.
Phase 1: The Smooth Intro (0:00 - 1:15)
The song starts with a walking bassline. Your goal here is a warm, legato tone. When singing "L is for the way you look at me," avoid hitting the consonants too hard just yet. Connect the vowels.
The Trap: Dropping pitch at the ends of phrases. Bublé often uses a subtle vibrato at the tail end of words like "me" and "see" to keep the energy lifted. Monitor the pitch visualizer in the app to ensure you aren't going flat on the release.
Phase 2: The Big Band Swing (1:15 - 2:00)
As the brass section kicks in, your volume must increase. This is where you switch from a "bedroom voice" to a "stage voice." You need more chest resonance here.
- Articulation: The band is loud. To be heard, you must sharpen your consonants. The 'K' in "Look" and the 'V' in "Love" should be crisp.
- Dynamics: Crescendo (get louder) as the melody ascends. This adds excitement and mimics the swelling of the horn section.
Phase 3: The Climax and Modulation
Bublé is famous for his key changes. The song modulates, requiring you to navigate slightly higher notes with the same ease as the lower ones. The final note is often held long with a wide vibrato. Ensure you have taken a deep diaphragmatic breath before the final phrase "Love is for me and you."
Frequently Asked Questions
The core melody hits an F4, which is a comfortable belt for Tenors and a high chest note for Baritones. There are improvised sections where Bublé might flick higher, but the F4 is the target.
Yes! The techniques (phrasing, swing, articulation) are identical. However, you may want to transpose the key up by +3 or +5 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app to suit a Soprano or Alto range.
Keep your soft palate raised (like a yawn) and your larynx neutral. Avoid singing through your nose. Think of the sound vibrating in your chest rather than your mask.
