The Art of "Nostalgic Pop" Vocals
Released in 2017, "Paris" marked a turning point for The Chainsmokers, highlighting Drew Taggart's vocal evolution. Unlike high-energy belts, this track demands a controlled, conversational style that sits right in the pocket of the beat. It’s set in F# Major, giving it that bright yet sentimental feeling.
The challenge isn't hitting high notes—the melody stays relatively low and grounded. The challenge is in the nuance. You need to sound vulnerable without sounding weak, and rhythmic without sounding robotic. Here is how you tackle it.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Tone
Many singers push too much air in the verses. Our analysis shows that a "speech-level" approach works best. Think of it less like singing and more like telling a story to a friend in a quiet room.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:42)
The song starts with a clean electric guitar riff. The opening line "We were staying in Paris" sits low in the range (around C#3). For higher voices, this bottom end can be tricky to project.
Technique: Keep your larynx neutral. Do not press your chin down to reach the low notes; this restricts the vocal cords. Instead, rely on chest resonance—feel the vibration in your sternum.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (0:42 - 1:03)
The energy builds with the lyrics "I know I know I know." This repetitive phrase is rhythmic gold. You need to be extremely precise with your timing. The AI Coach tracks your rhythmic accuracy here heavily.
- Breath Control: The phrases are short, but they stack up quickly. Take quick "sip" breaths between lines.
- Consonants: Soften your 'K's and 'T's slightly to match the smooth production style.
Phase 3: The Chorus (1:03 - 1:45)
This is the anthem section: "If we go down, then we go down together." The melody lifts, but it doesn't jump too high (peaking around F#4). The key here is the "gang vocal" effect. It should sound communal and open.
There is also a prominent female harmony (originally Emily Warren) floating above the lead. When using the app, focus on holding the solid bottom melody (the root notes) while the backing track handles the harmonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
The uncredited female vocals are performed by Emily Warren. She provides the high harmonies and the "oohs" that give the chorus its texture.
It is considered an Easy-to-Medium difficulty song. The range is accessible for most male voices (Baritones/Tenors), but mastering the laid-back style takes practice.
If the low notes in the verse (C#3) are too deep for you, use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the track up +2 semitones.
