The Definitive New Wave Anthem
"Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" is the song that launched Eurythmics to global stardom in 1983. Built on a hypnotic analog synthesizer riff in C Minor, the track is famous for Annie Lennox's commanding, soulful, yet icy vocal delivery. Unlike many pop songs of the era, it relies on tension and restraint rather than explosive high notes.
To sing this well, you need to master your lower register. The song sits squarely in the "chest voice" for female vocalists, requiring a tone that is powerful but not shouty. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Annie Lennox uses very crisp, almost staccato consonants. Avoid slurring words together. Sing "Sweet. Dreams. Are. Made. Of. This." with distinct separation to match the synth pulse.
Phase 1: The Verses (Restraint)
The verse melody hovers around C4, dipping down to G3. This is comfortable for Altos and Baritones, but Sopranos may lose power here.
The Technique: Use a straight tone. Vibrato should be used very sparingly, only at the very end of long phrases. Think of your voice as another synthesizer instrument—steady, flat, and consistent. Keep the sound "forward" in the mask of your face to cut through the mix.
Phase 2: The Bridge (Build-up)
The section beginning with "Hold your head up, keep your head up, movin' on" introduces a call-and-response pattern. This is where the energy lifts.
- Breath Control: The phrases are repetitive and leave little room for breath. Plan your inhales quickly between the "Movin' on" lines.
- Volume: Increase your dynamics here from mezzo-piano to forte.
- Pitch: Be careful not to go sharp on the word "up." It requires a precise C4 without sliding.
Phase 3: The Ad-Libs & Coda
Towards the end of the song, Lennox unleashes more soulful ad-libs, hitting C5s with force. This is where you can finally let loose and add some bluesy inflection and natural vibrato. The contrast between the robotic verses and the soulful outro is what makes the performance compelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is a C5, usually found in the ad-libs and harmonies towards the end. The main melody stays mostly below Bb4.
Yes. The range is accessible (G3-C5), and the melody is repetitive, making it easier to memorize. The challenge lies in the rhythmic precision and tone quality.
Lower your larynx slightly and open the back of your throat (pharynx). Avoid smiling while singing the verses; keep a vertical mouth shape to darken the vowel sounds.
