The Ultimate Power Ballad
Released on her English-language debut Laundry Service, "Underneath Your Clothes" is a masterclass in dynamic control. Unlike standard pop songs that stay in a safe mid-range, Shakira utilizes her full chest register, dipping down to a resonant E3 and belting up to C#5.
The song requires a unique blend of vulnerability in the verses and raw power in the chorus. To sing this authentically, you need to master chest resonance and the subtle "yodel" technique that gives Shakira her signature sound.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Vowels
Shakira often modifies her vowels to maintain resonance. On the word "clothes," try rounding your lips slightly more than usual (almost like "clo-uths") to keep the tone dark and rich without straining.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Resonant)
The song begins in E Major with the line "You're a song written by the hands of God." This sits very low for many female singers (E3). To project here without frying your voice, focus on chest vibrations.
The Trap: Many singers lose volume here. Keep your posture tall and engage your diaphragm even on the quiet notes. Don't let the sound fall back into your throat.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (Building Tension)
As the lyrics move to "Because of you, I forgot the smart ways to lie," the melody begins to climb. This is the transition zone. You need to start lifting your soft palate to add brightness to the tone.
- Because of you: Ensure crisp diction.
- Running out: Avoid shouting. This should be a controlled mix voice.
Phase 3: The Chorus (The Belt)
The chorus, "Underneath your clothes," is the emotional peak. The melody hits a B4 and C#5. This requires a strong chest-dominant mix.
To hit these notes safely, think of sending the sound "forward" into the mask of your face (the area around your nose and eyes). If you feel tension in your neck, you are pushing too hard. Use the "cry" technique—imitating a whimpering puppy sound—to thin out the vocal cords and reach the high notes with ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note in the chorus is a C#5 (on lines like "endless story").
No! Shakira has a very distinct, almost "yodeling" vocal placement. While you can emulate her style for practice, it's better to find your own healthy resonance in the key of E Major.
The E3 is quite low. Try to relax your jaw completely and feel the vibration in your sternum. If it's still too low, use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the song up +2 semitones.
