How to sing The Monster

Mastering the Pop-Rap Hybrid

"The Monster" is a definitive collaboration between Eminem and Rihanna, blending gritty, introspective hip-hop verses with a soaring, stadium-ready pop chorus. Originally penned by Bebe Rexha, the hook sits high in the female register, while the verses demand the rhythmic precision Eminem is famous for.

Whether you are attempting the rap, the singing, or both, this track requires excellent stamina. You are essentially performing two different vocal roles in one song. Let's break down the technique.

Phase 1: The Hook (Rihanna)

The chorus is iconic: "I'm friends with the monster that's under my bed." It sits in C# Minor. The melody requires a strong mixed voice. The phrase "under my bed" features a distinct vocal flip (yodel) that Rihanna uses stylistically.

The Trap: The line "get along with the voices inside of my head" climbs up to C#5 and touches E5. If you pull too much chest weight up here, you will strain. Aim for a "forward" placement, resonating in your mask/nose area to get that piercing tone without the vocal fatigue.

Phase 2: The Verses (Eminem)

Eminem's delivery here is less aggressive than his earlier work but highly rhythmic. He uses a triplet flow that dances around the main beat.

• Breath Control: Plan your breaths. There are few gaps in the verses. Snatch quick breaths through your mouth between phrases.
• Dynamics: Notice how Eminem starts the verse relatively calm and builds intensity toward the pre-chorus. Don't start at 100% volume.
• Pitch: Even though it's rap, there is a pitch center. Eminem raps largely around the tonic (C#), anchoring the track musically.

Phase 3: The "Stop" Moment

Near the end, the music cuts out for the "Stop!" line. This is a dramatic moment. Ensure you have a clean cutoff. The silence is just as important as the noise for creating impact.

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