The R&B Anthem of 1776
"The Schuyler Sisters" is the moment Hamilton transforms from hip-hop history lesson to a Destiny's Child-style R&B concert. Sung primarily by Angelica (Renée Elise Goldsberry), Eliza, and Peggy, this track is a masterclass in tight harmonies, rapid-fire lyrical flow, and high-energy belting.
The song requires the swagger of a pop star and the technique of a theater veteran. You'll be navigating between intricate three-part harmonies and solo lines that require speech-level singing and heavy mixing. Let's break down the strategy.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the tempo is fast (approx 100 BPM), consonants often get lost. Focus on over-articulating the ends of words, especially during Angelica's "Common Sense" verse, to maintain the rhythmic groove.
Phase 1: The Harmonies ("Work!")
The hook "Work!" is iconic. It sits in a tight harmonic cluster. Depending on which sister you are singing, your job changes:
- Eliza (Middle): You are the anchor. Keep your tone straight and steady.
- Peggy (High/Harmony): You need to blend carefully without overpowering the melody.
- Angelica (Lead): You drive the energy. Your "Work!" needs a sharp, percussive onset.
Phase 2: The Flow (1:20 - 2:00)
When Angelica sings "I've been reading Common Sense by Thomas Paine," the song shifts into a rhythmic, speech-like delivery. This isn't quite rapping, but it's close. The challenge is maintaining pitch accuracy while delivering the text at speed.
The Trap: Singers often run out of breath here. Plan your breaths on the punctuation marks within the lyrics. Do not gasp; take quick "sip" breaths.
Phase 3: The Belt (Climax)
The song builds to a massive finish. The line "Include women in the sequel!" and the final ad-libs require a strong belt up to E5. This is a high mix.
To hit this safely, think "forward." Place the sound in your "mask" (the front of your face/nose area) rather than pulling it back into your throat. This gives you the piercing, brassy quality of Renée Elise Goldsberry without the vocal fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Angelica is typically cast as a Mezzo-Soprano with a very strong belt and R&B agility. The role requires significant power in the upper-middle register.
The highest belted note is an E5 during the ad-libs and final chorus. The harmonies occasionally touch F#5 depending on the arrangement.
Use the Singing Coach AI app to isolate the vocal stems. You can mute the lead vocal and practice singing just the harmony lines slowly.
