The Indie-Pop Anthem of a Generation
"We Are the People" is a standout track from Empire of the Sun's debut album Walking on a Dream. While it sounds effortless and dreamy, singing it correctly requires mastering Luke Steele's distinctive vocal texture. It's not about singing perfectly "clean"; it's about character, placement, and sustain.
The song stays relatively consistent in energy but demands excellent breath support for the long phrases in the chorus. You need to balance a bright, almost piercing tone with a relaxed throat to avoid fatigue. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Forward Placement
To get that "Empire" sound, visualize sending the sound out through your nose and upper teeth (the "mask"). If you sing this too far back in your throat, it will sound too operatic and lose the indie style.
Phase 1: The Verse (0:00 - 0:48)
The song opens with acoustic guitar and a very rhythmic vocal delivery. The lines "We are the people that rule the world / A force running in every boy and girl" need to be sung with a light chest voice.
The Trap: Don't slur the words. The rhythm is key here. Keep the consonants crisp, especially on "force," "running," and "boy." You want to match the percussive nature of the guitar strumming.
Phase 2: The Chorus (0:49 - 1:20)
Here, the melody opens up. The range lifts, and you need to project more. However, Steele doesn't "belt" in a heavy rock sense; he uses a mixed voice that leans heavily on head resonance.
- Resonance: Aim for a "twangy" sound. Narrow the vocal tract slightly to get that bright, cutting tone.
- Dynamics: The volume increases, but don't push air too hard. Let the resonance do the work.
- Sustain: The phrase "We are the people..." is sustained. Ensure you have taken a deep diaphragmatic breath before the line starts.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Falsetto (2:30 - End)
As the song progresses, you'll encounter higher ad-libs and harmonies that drift into falsetto territory (up to F#5). The transition needs to be seamless. The goal is an ethereal, dream-like quality. Keep the jaw loose and the sound light.
If you struggle to switch gears, practice "siren" exercises, sliding from your lowest note to your highest note without breaking, to smooth out your vocal bridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal melody stays mostly within the octave of F#3 to F#4, but falsetto harmonies and ad-libs reach up to F#5.
It's a balance. You want "brightness" (forward resonance) not "nasality" (blocked air). Pinch your nose while singing—if the sound cuts off, you are too nasal. If it stays clear, you have good placement.
Yes. The Singing Coach AI app allows you to transpose the backing track. If the F#4 sustain is straining your voice, try lowering it by -1 or -2 semitones.
