Unlocking Shawn's Signature Grit
"Mercy" is the standout track from Shawn Mendes' second studio album, Illuminate. It showcases a raw, bluesy influence mixed with modern pop. The song is driven by intense emotion, pleading lyrics, and a vocal performance that swings from intimate verses to an explosive, belted chorus.
To sing this well, pitch accuracy isn't enough; you need texture. Shawn uses a technique often called a "cry" or "whimper" in his voice to convey pain. This requires excellent breath support to ensure you don't damage your vocal cords while adding that rasp.
AI Coach Tip: The "Cry" Technique
To get the emotion right without straining, think of the sound you make when you are about to cry. This slightly raises the larynx and tilts the thyroid cartilage, allowing you to hit high notes like the A4 with a "pleading" tone rather than a shout.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:48)
The song starts in B minor with a rhythmic, percussive vocal delivery. The line "You've got a hold of me" should be sung with a soft onset. Don't attack these notes too hard yet.
The Trap: Many singers run out of breath here because they are trying to sound too breathy. Keep a steady stream of air, but stay connected to your diaphragm. The vibe should be conversational but tense.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Build (0:48 - 1:04)
As the lyrics move to "I don't know what you do, but you do it well," the volume needs to swell. You are transitioning from a speaking voice into a calling voice. You should feel the resonance move from your mouth to your chest and mask.
- Consonants: Lean on the 'D' in "Do" and 'W' in "Well" to create percussive rhythm.
- Dynamics: Start mezzo-forte and crescendo into the chorus drop.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (1:04 - 1:40)
This is the main event. The line "Please have mercy on me" hits a powerful A4. This is high for many male singers to belt in full chest voice.
To survive this chorus, you must modify your vowels. If you sing a wide "Ah" on "Have," you might strain. Try narrowing the vowel slightly towards "Uh" or "Eh" to keep the throat open. Engage your core muscles to support the sudden jump in power.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted chest-voice note is an A4. However, Shawn often adds ad-libs and runs that can touch on B4 or higher in head voice during live performances.
Rasp should come from false cord engagement, not by grinding your vocal cords together. Practice the "fry" sound gently first. If it hurts or tickles, stop immediately.
The bridge ("I'm a puppet on your string") requires a bridge (passaggio) transition. You are likely pulling your chest voice up too high. Try mixing in some head resonance to lighten the load.
