The R&B Anthem of the 90s
Released on TLC's landmark 1994 album CrazySexyCool, "Waterfalls" is a masterclass in smooth, mid-tempo R&B. The track combines T-Boz's sultry low register, Chilli's sweet harmonic support, and Left Eye's socially conscious rap. It sits comfortably in an Eb Major key, making it highly accessible for Altos and Mezzo-Sopranos.
To capture the essence of this song, you need to balance attitude with relaxation. It’s not about power belting; it’s about "pocket" and tone texture.
AI Coach Tip: Stay Behind the Beat
R&B requires a laid-back feel. Our analysis shows users often sing the verses too aggressively. Lean back into the groove and focus on a breathy, warm tone.
Phase 1: The Verses (T-Boz's Lows)
T-Boz is famous for her "cool" vocal delivery. The verses sit low, hovering around Eb3 to Bb3. This range can sound muddy if you don't use enough breath support.
Technique: Keep your larynx neutral or slightly lowered to get that warm, chest-dominant resonance. Avoid "squeezing" the notes. Think of speaking on pitch rather than "singing" forcefully.
Phase 2: The Chorus (Harmonies)
The hook, "Don't go chasing waterfalls," is iconic. The lead melody is relatively simple, but the magic lies in the harmonies. In the app, you can choose to sing the Lead, High Harmony, or Low Harmony.
- Phrasing: Be careful not to chop the phrases. Connect "chasing" smoothly into "waterfalls."
- Dynamics: The chorus should swell slightly in volume compared to the laid-back verses, but keep it controlled.
Phase 3: The Rap (Left Eye)
Starting at roughly 3:15, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes delivers one of the most memorable verses in hip-hop history. The rhythm is intricate but conversational.
To nail this, focus on diction. The line "Dreams are hopeless aspirations in hopes of comin' true" requires precise tongue articulation. Practice this section at 0.75x speed in the Singing Coach AI app before attempting full speed.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest sung note in the main melody/ad-libs is around C5. However, the harmonies blend to create a full sound without requiring extreme high belts.
Yes. The range is very comfortable for most female voices and lower male voices. The main challenge is the rhythmic flow of the rap section.
Use "vocal fry" at the very beginning of phrases in the low register. Relax your vocal cords to let a little air through, but ensure you support it from your diaphragm to avoid strain.
