Mastering Ed Sheeran's Pop-Funk Anthem
"Sing" marked a significant departure for Ed Sheeran. Collaborating with Pharrell Williams, he moved from acoustic ballads to high-energy funk. The track is famous for its driving guitar, rapid-fire verses, and a soaring falsetto chorus inspired by Justin Timberlake.
To sing this well, you need versatility. You must handle the rhythmic precision of the verses (almost rapping) and instantly switch to a clean, resonant head voice for the hook. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Breath Management
The verses are fast. Our analysis shows users often run out of air before the pre-chorus. Practice taking quick "sipping" breaths at punctuation marks to maintain the energy without gasping.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:00 - 0:48)
The song begins with "It's late in the evening." This section sits in a comfortable mid-range (G#3 area), but the challenge is rhythm. You are essentially acting as a percussion instrument.
The Trap: Slurring words. Because the tempo is high, singers often blend words together. Focus on crisp consonant articulation, especially on the 't' and 'k' sounds, to keep the groove locked in.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (0:48 - 1:06)
"I need you darling..." Here, the melody starts to climb. You need to build intensity. This should be sung in your chest voice or a strong chest-mix. Don't flip to falsetto yet; you want to create contrast for the chorus that follows.
Phase 3: The Falsetto Chorus (1:06 - 1:25)
This is the signature moment: the "Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh" hook. It hits a high G#5. Unlike a rock scream, this requires a lighter touch.
- Placement: Direct the sound into your "mask" (nasal cavity/forehead) to get that ringing quality without straining your throat.
- Volume: Do not push too hard. If you push air like you are belting, your voice will crack. Think "up and over."
- Transition: Practice the jump from the chest voice verse to the head voice chorus slowly until the break disappears.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest note is a G#5, sung in falsetto during the main hook. The verses sit much lower in a comfortable speaking range.
You can develop your falsetto with "siren" exercises. Alternatively, use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the backing track down -2 or -3 semitones to make the falsetto more accessible.
Breathiness comes from vocal cords not closing fully. Try practicing the hook on a "Gug" sound instead of "Ooh." The 'G' helps bring the cords together for a clearer tone.
