A Masterclass in Celtic Soul
Released on the 1982 album Too-Rye-Ay, "Until I Believe in My Soul" is a quintessential Dexys Midnight Runners track. It captures the struggle for artistic integrity and personal belief. For a vocalist, this song is less about acrobatic runs and more about sustain, dynamics, and raw, unfiltered passion.
Kevin Rowland's vocal performance here is legendary for its idiosyncratic phrasing. He often switches from a soft, almost spoken mumble to a powerful, shouting chest belt within a single measure. To score high on Singing Coach AI, you need to match this emotional intensity without losing pitch accuracy.
AI Coach Tip: The Rowland "Yelp"
Kevin Rowland often uses a stylistic "hiccup" or yelp at the end of phrases to convey emotion. Our pitch tracker accounts for these stylistic choices—don't be afraid to add grit to your tone.
Phase 1: The Slow Burn (Intro - 2:30)
The song starts with a distinct groove. The vocals here should be kept in the mid-range chest voice. Focus on clear diction but keep the tone conversational.
The Trap: It is easy to drag the tempo here as the band plays a laid-back soul rhythm. Ensure your vocal onset is precise and right on the downbeat to keep the momentum moving forward.
Phase 2: The Horn Section Interplay (2:30 - 4:45)
As the famous brass section kicks in, the vocal volume must rise to match. You are effectively duetting with the saxophone.
- Breathing: The phrases become longer here. Take deep diaphragmatic breaths during the instrumentals.
- Dynamics: This section features "call and response" elements. Listen closely to the backing track and swell your volume when the horns swell.
Phase 3: The Soulful Climax (4:45 - End)
This is where the song tests your endurance. The repetition of the title refrain requires a consistent, powerful mix voice. You will be hovering around F#4 and G4 repeatedly.
To avoid vocal fatigue, engage your core support and try to direct the sound into the "mask" (the front of your face) rather than pushing from the throat. If you feel strain, switch to a heady mix rather than forcing a heavy chest belt.
Frequently Asked Questions
The song is primarily in G Major, which gives it that bright, triumphant, yet yearning soul feel. It fits comfortably for most Tenors and Baritones.
Singing Coach AI allows you to loop specific sections. We recommend mastering the climax first, as that is where 80% of singers lose their breath support.
Kevin Rowland sings with a lot of "cry" in his voice. Try raising your soft palate (like holding back a yawn) while keeping the sound forward and nasal to achieve that piercing soul quality.
