The Gold Standard of Soul Phrasing
Released in 1969, "My Cherie Amour" is a masterclass in smooth vocal control and emotional delivery. Written by Stevie Wonder about his girlfriend at the Michigan School for the Blind, the song requires a tone that is bright, optimistic, and effortlessly legato.
Unlike rock songs that rely on power, this track relies on placement. Stevie uses a forward, slightly nasal placement (singing "in the mask") to get that signature sound that cuts through without being harsh. Let's break down the technical hurdles.
AI Coach Tip: "Smile" Your Sound
Stevie often sings with a distinct smile shape in his mouth. This brightens the resonance and helps keep the pitch accurate on the upper mid-range notes. Try physically smiling while singing the "La la la" intro.
Phase 1: The Intro & Verses (0:00 - 1:05)
The song begins with the iconic "La la la" intro. This should be sung with a light, bouncy feel. Do not drag the tempo. When the verse begins ("My cherie amour, lovely as a summer day"), the range is comfortable for most singers (Db3 to Db4).
The Challenge: Breath control. The phrases are long and flowing. If you chop the air stream, the soul feel disappears. Aim for a continuous line of sound.
Phase 2: The Chorus (1:05 - 1:40)
The melody lifts here. "My cherie amour, distant as the milky way" requires a transition into your upper mix voice. The top note is a Gb4. It shouldn't sound strained or shouted; keep the volume consistent with the verses, but increase the intensity of your focus.
Phase 3: The Modulations (1:40 - End)
This is technically the hardest part of the song. Stevie modulates (changes key) upward twice to build excitement.
- First Modulation: The song shifts from Db Major to D Major. You must mentally prepare for the new tonal center immediately.
- Second Modulation: It shifts again from D Major to Eb Major.
Many singers go flat during these transitions because they don't adjust their ear quickly enough. The AI Coach will specifically track your pitch accuracy during these key changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main melody hits a Gb4 in the first key, moving up to G4 and Ab4 in the subsequent modulations. Stevie also adds ad-libs that reach into the 5th octave (falsetto/head voice).
Yes, because the range is not extreme. However, intermediate singers will benefit more from practicing the advanced modulation techniques.
Focus on forward resonance (feeling the vibration in your nose and cheekbones) and using runs/riffs sparingly. The beauty is in the melody.
