An Ode to Love and Vulnerability
"Woman" is one of John Lennon's most beloved ballads, released posthumously from the album Double Fantasy. Written as an ode to his wife Yoko Ono and to women everywhere, it features a melody that is deceivingly simple. Unlike rock anthems that rely on grit and power, "Woman" requires vulnerability, impeccable breath control, and a soft, "sincere" tone.
To sing this well, you must avoid over-singing. The charm lies in the intimate delivery, as if you are whispering the lyrics into someone's ear while maintaining enough support to carry the melody.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Airflow
Many singers go flat at the end of phrases in this song because they run out of breath support on the softer notes. Ensure you take quick, low breaths between lines to keep the pitch buoyant.
Phase 1: The Whispered Intro & Verse
The song opens with a spoken whisper: "For the other half of the sky." This sets the mood. When the singing begins ("Woman, I can hardly express..."), you are in a comfortable chest range (around D3-A3).
The Trap: Because it is low and soft, it is easy to sound "mumbly." Keep your articulation crisp. Bring the sound forward to your lips rather than letting it fall back in your throat.
Phase 2: The Chorus Lift
As you move to the chorus ("Woman, I know you understand"), the melody lifts. The highest notes here touch around F#4 and G4. Lennon uses a very specific "double-tracked" vocal production in the studio to make his voice sound thicker.
To replicate this live, you need a relaxed mixed voice. Do not pull your heavy chest voice up to the G4 or it will sound like shouting, which kills the romantic vibe. Think of singing "up and over" the note.
Phase 3: The Key Change Modulation
The song features a classic pop modulation that lifts the energy towards the end. This shift requires mental preparation. Your ear needs to lock onto the new root note immediately.
During the recurring "I love you, yeah, yeah" hook, focus on the rhythm. The syncopation is slight but important to give the song its "Motown" sway.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest note in the main melody is a G4. It sits right in the "break" area for many baritones, requiring good mixed voice technique.
Yes. It does not require extreme range or complex vocal runs. It is excellent for beginners wanting to practice emotional connection and breath control.
Lennon often sang with a slightly nasal, cutting tone but kept it very relaxed. Try smiling slightly while singing to brighten the resonance.
