The "Bohemian Rhapsody" of the 90s
Often compared to Queen's magnum opus due to its multi-part structure, Paranoid Android is the centerpiece of Radiohead's 1997 album OK Computer. For a vocalist, this song is a test of character and stamina. It shifts from acoustic murmurs to aggressive rock screaming, and finally to a celestial choral section.
The difficulty lies not just in the pitch, but in the attitude. Thom Yorke delivers the lyrics with a mix of anxiety, sarcasm, and despair. To score high, you need to match these emotional shifts while navigating complex time signatures.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Rhythm
The second section switches between 7/8 and 4/4 time. Many singers come in too early on the line "Ambition makes you look pretty ugly." Use the metronome feature in the app to lock into the groove before recording.
Phase 1: The Acoustic Mutter (0:00 - 2:00)
The song starts in G minor with a moderate tempo. Yorke's delivery here is dry and close to the mic. The range is comfortable (G3-Bb4), but the challenge is maintaining a consistent tone without vibrato.
The Trap: It's easy to sound bored here. Ensure you are articulating the consonants in "Please could you stop the noise, I'm trying to get some rest" to convey the suppressed irritation.
Phase 2: The Aggression (2:00 - 3:33)
The tempo increases and the guitars become distorted. This is where you need to add "bite" to your voice. The line "Kicking squealing Gucci little piggy" requires a sneering tone.
Do not yell. Instead, use more breath pressure and forward placement (singing into the "mask" of your face) to get the grit required without straining your vocal cords.
Phase 3: Rain Down (3:33 - 5:36)
The song slows down into a haunting choral section. This is the technical peak of the song. You must switch to a pure, resonant head voice or falsetto.
The melody climbs to a C5 and touches D5 on the harmonies. Keep your soft palate raised (as if holding a surprise) to create the cathedral-like resonance needed for "God loves his children."
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest sustained note is a D5 in the falsetto section ("Rain down"). In full chest voice, the melody generally stays below A4.
Yes. The song frequently shifts time signatures, particularly in the guitar solo sections. The verses are mostly 4/4, but the bridges introduce 7/8 bars that catch singers off guard.
Yorke often uses a "whiny" or nasal placement for effect, but he supports it with excellent breath control. Practice sliding up into notes (portamento) to mimic his style.
