The Art of Nostalgia
Released in 2019, "Memories" became an instant classic for Maroon 5. Harmonically based on Pachelbel's Canon, the song is a stripped-back, emotional tribute. Unlike many pop hits that rely on heavy production, this track leaves the vocal dangerously exposed.
To sing this well, you need impeccable pitch accuracy and control. Adam Levine stays in a comfortable range for a Tenor, but the constant hovering around the passaggio (bridge between chest and head voice) requires discipline to avoid cracking.
AI Coach Tip: Soft Onset
Do not attack the notes too hard. Our analysis shows that users score higher when using a "soft onset"—start the sound gently with your breath before the vocal cord closure creates the tone.
Phase 1: The "Toast" Chorus (0:00 - 0:45)
The song opens with the chorus: "Here's to the ones that we got." This sets the mood. It should feel like a conversation at a bar, not a performance on a stage.
The Technique: Keep your volume at a mezzo-piano. The melody is simple, stepping down the scale. Focus on legato phrasing—connecting the notes smoothly without choppy breaks.
Phase 2: The Rhythmic Verses (0:45 - 1:26)
The verse introduces a rhythmic, almost rap-sung delivery ("There's a time that I remember..."). The challenge here is diction and breath.
- Articulation: The words need to be crisp. Use the tip of your tongue for T's and D's to keep the rhythm driving forward.
- Breath Management: The phrases are long. Take quick "sip" breaths at the punctuation marks to ensure you don't run out of air before the end of the line.
Phase 3: The High Mix (2:10 - End)
Towards the end and during the "Doo-doo-doo" sections, the pitch sits higher. You will need to access your mix voice to hit the G#4 comfortably.
If you try to pull your heavy chest voice up to these notes, it will sound like shouting. instead, visualize the sound resonating in your nose or "mask." This "forward placement" makes the high notes sound effortless and pop-perfect, just like Levine.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest main melody note is a G♯4 (Ab4). Depending on ad-libs, it can touch a B4, but the core melody stays within a reachable Tenor range.
The verses are wordy with few pauses. Try practicing the lyrics slowly to map out exactly where you will inhale. Singing Coach AI highlights optimal breath points visually.
Yes. The song is originally in B Major. If the high G#4 is too strained, you can transpose the track down -2 or -3 semitones in the app to suit a Baritone range.
