Mastering the "Mariachi-Rock" Vibe
"50 Ways to Say Goodbye" is a high-energy track from Train's 2012 album California 37. It combines pop-rock elements with distinct Mariachi trumpets and acoustic guitars. For a vocalist, the challenge lies in balancing the humorous, storytelling nature of the verses with the powerful, anthemic choruses.
Pat Monahan is known for his high tenor range and clarity. To sing this well, you need agility for the fast-paced lyrics and good breath support to sustain the energy through the chorus belts. Let's break it down.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
The verses are wordy and fast ("She went down in an airplane, fried getting suntan"). Our analysis shows users lose points here by slurring words. Practice speaking the lyrics slowly in rhythm before singing them.
Phase 1: The Storytelling Verses
The song starts in a lower, more comfortable range (around Bb2). The tone should be conversational but rhythmic. You are telling a ridiculous story, so your vocal delivery should reflect that irony.
The Trap: Because the lyrics are funny, singers often laugh through them or lose pitch focus. Keep the pitch precise even while being expressive. The jump to the pre-chorus ("Help me, help you") requires a sudden shift in energy.
Phase 2: The Chorus Belt
The chorus is the payoff. It sits higher in the chest voice, frequently hitting Gb4 and Ab4. The phrasing "My heart is paralyzed" needs to be punched out.
- Placement: Use a forward "mask" placement (feel the vibration in your nose and cheekbones) to get that bright, piercing pop-rock sound.
- Vowels: Modify your vowels on the high notes. "Ways" should sound more like "Weh-ees" to keep the throat open.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Outro
The bridge breaks down into a more acoustic feel before building back up. The "Na na na" sections and the "Hey!" shouts are integral to the style. Don't be afraid to shout the "Hey!"—just use your diaphragm support to avoid throat irritation.
The final chorus requires stamina. If you find yourself running out of breath, check that you aren't expelling too much air on the consonants in the verses.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal belt goes up to a B♭4 in the chorus and ad-libs. There are falsetto layers that go higher, but the main power note is the B♭4.
Use the Singing Coach AI app to slow the tempo to 75%. Master the consonant articulation at a slower speed, then gradually speed it up.
The song is in Eb Minor. This key gives it that slightly dark, Spanish-influenced flavor despite the upbeat tempo.
