The Anthem of Self-Acceptance
Released in 1999 on the album FanMail, "Unpretty" became a defining track for TLC. While many pop songs of the era focused on high belts and vocal gymnastics, "Unpretty" is grounded in T-Boz's signature contralto rasp and intimate storytelling.
The song requires a singer who is comfortable in their lower register. The challenge isn't hitting high notes, but maintaining tone, clarity, and emotion in the low notes without losing volume. Let's break down the vocal strategy.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Low Notes
Many singers lose pitch accuracy on the C3 notes in the verses. Relax your jaw and think of the sound vibrating in your chest. If you push too hard, you'll go flat.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Cool)
The song opens with an acoustic guitar, and the vocals enter right at the bottom of the female pop range. Lines like "I wish I could tie you up in my shoes" require a steady, warm chest voice.
The Trap: Because it's low, many singers "swallow" the sound. Keep the placement forward in the mask (the front of your face) even though the pitch is deep.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (The Build)
As you move into "You can buy your hair if it won't grow," the melody lifts slightly. This is where you need to start increasing your dynamics. The transition needs to be smooth, not jerky.
Focus on your diction here. The lyrics are dense, and the rhythmic flow (phrasing) is essential to the R&B feel of the track.
Phase 3: The Chorus (The Message)
The chorus ("You can buy your make-up...") is deceptively simple. While the lead vocal is straightforward, the magic lies in the blend. If you are singing with the backing track, try to match the "straight tone" (no vibrato) until the end of the phrases.
The emotional peak hits at "Never insecure until I met you." Allow a little more air into your voice here to convey vulnerability.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocals range from approximately C3 to C5. It is a classic Alto/Contralto song, sitting comfortably below the break for most female singers.
T-Boz has a natural rasp, but you can mimic it safely by relaxing the vocal cords and using a gentle "vocal fry" onset. Do not grind your throat; if it tickles or hurts, stop immediately.
Pitch-wise, it is moderate. Rhythmically and emotionally, it is difficult. The challenge is delivering the lyrics with conviction while managing the low notes.
