Rhythm Over Range
Released on A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships, "TOOTIMETOOTIMETOOTIME" is a tropical house-infused synth-pop track that presents a different kind of challenge for singers. Unlike power ballads, this song doesn't demand high belting. Instead, Matty Healy delivers the lyrics with a conversational, almost throwaway quality that is rhythmically precise.
The key to nailing this song is understanding the interplay between the digital aesthetic (the heavy use of Auto-Tune on the original recording) and the organic delivery of the lyrics.
AI Coach Tip: Straight Tone
To mimic the "Auto-Tuned" sound of the original track without actually using effects, minimize your vibrato. Sing with a "straight tone." This helps the Singing Coach AI detect your pitch accuracy more cleanly on this specific track.
Phase 1: The Verses (Conversational Tone)
The verses are sung in a mid-range chest voice. The lyrics deal with digital infidelity and messy relationships, and the delivery should reflect that—casual and slightly detached.
The Trap: Singers often try to "perform" these lines too much. The melody is simple. Focus on the pocket of the beat. You should feel like you are talking in pitch rather than singing an aria.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Hook)
The repetition of "I only called her one time / Maybe it was two times?" is the earworm. The pitch jumps slightly, but stays comfortably within the staff (around C#4 to F#4).
- Diction: Matty Healy has a unique way of slurring words while keeping the rhythm tight. Don't over-enunciate. Let the words flow into each other.
- Consistency: The energy needs to remain flat (in a good way) and consistent. Don't crescendo too much; keep it cool and contained.
Phase 3: The Bridge
The song breaks down slightly, but the vocal approach remains similar. The challenge here is maintaining breath support while delivering the rapid-fire lines about "texting" and "calling." Keep your diaphragm engaged so you don't run out of air before the end of the phrase.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest sustained note is an F#4. It is a very safe song for Baritones and Tenors who aren't looking to strain their upper register.
It's all about "attitude." Matty Healy sings with a mix of British accent vowels and a relaxed, almost lazy jaw tension. Experiment with softening your consonants.
Yes, absolutely. Because the range is narrow, it is excellent for beginners to practice rhythm and timing without worrying about cracking on high notes.
