The Anthem of Connection
As the Act 1 finale of the smash hit musical Dear Evan Hansen, "You Will Be Found" is more than just a song—it is a viral moment of storytelling. Written by Pasek and Paul, the track starts as a tentative, intimate speech and explodes into a global anthem of hope.
To sing this well, you must master the "Ben Platt Mix"—a vocal quality that balances immense emotional vulnerability (crying voice) with perfect pitch and powerful resonance. The song builds significantly in intensity, meaning pacing is your biggest challenge.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the opening is conversational ("Have you ever felt like nobody was there?"), singers often mumble. The AI detects consonant clarity. Keep your lips active and vowels forward, even when singing softly.
Phase 1: The Vulnerable Verse (0:00 - 1:15)
The song begins in G Major. The opening lines sit in the lower register (A2-D3). For Tenors, this can feel too low. The key is to avoid "vocal fry."
The Technique: Use a breathy tone, but keep your diaphragm engaged. Think of "sighing" the notes out. The emotion here is isolation. Do not push the volume yet; draw the listener in.
Phase 2: The Build (1:15 - 2:30)
As the drums enter, you need to transition from your "speech level" singing to a more supported chest voice. The lyrics "Even when the dark comes crashing through" require more energy.
- Resonance: Shift the vibration from your throat to your "mask" (the front of your face). This brightens the tone.
- Placement: Keep the sound forward. If you swallow the sound, you will lose the pitch on the ascending melody lines.
Phase 3: The Choral Climax (2:30 - End)
This is the payoff. The choir enters, and the lead vocal soars. You will be belting notes up to G4 and A4. The phrase "You will be found" is repeated as an anthem.
To sustain these belts without strain, drop your jaw and keep your tongue relaxed against your bottom teeth. Tension in the jaw will cause the high notes to sound pinched rather than powerful. You want a "calling out" quality, not a scream.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal hits a powerful belted A4 during the final chorus climax. Harmonies go higher, but the melody stays grounded.
Ben Platt is a Tenor with an incredibly agile mix-voice. However, Baritones can sing this song comfortably by focusing on head resonance for the higher notes.
This is the hardest part. Prioritize breath support. If you "cry" too much in the tone, your vocal cords won't close properly, leading to flat notes. Practice the song "dry" first, then add the emotion back in.
