The Groove That Killed Disco
"Another One Bites the Dust" is Queen's best-selling single, written by bassist John Deacon. Released on the album The Game (1980), it marked a distinct shift towards funk and disco-rock. Unlike their operatic works, this song is driven entirely by the rhythm section, specifically the iconic E minor bass riff.
Vocally, this song requires less range than typical Freddie Mercury tracks but demands significantly more attitude and rhythmic precision. The delivery is dry, tight, and percussive.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Timing
The most common mistake users make is dragging the tempo. The vocals are "staccato" (short and detached). You must hit the consonants hard on the beat—especially on the word "Bites".
Phase 1: The Verse (Low & Gritty)
The verses ("Steve walks warily down the street...") sit in a comfortable mid-range for Tenors and Baritones (E3-B3). However, the challenge is tone. You need a bit of vocal fry or "grit" to match the mood.
The Trap: Singing it too melodically. This section should almost be spoken-sung. Keep your phrasing clipped and aggressive to match the walking bass line.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Punch)
The chorus hook "Another one bites the dust" is simple but requires explosive energy. Focus on the plosive sounds (the 'B' in Bites and 'D' in Dust). Use your diaphragm to push air specifically on these accents.
Ensure you don't slur the words together. The AI Coach analyzes the silence between the words just as much as the notes themselves.
Phase 3: Ad-libs and The Shout (E5)
Towards the end of the track, Freddie introduces high-energy ad-libs and shouts that reach up to E5. These are sung in a mixed belt.
To hit these safely, keep the sound forward in your "mask" (the front of your face/nose area) rather than pulling it from your throat. If you feel tension in your neck, you are pushing too hard. Rely on breath support, not volume.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main melody stays relatively low, but the highest ad-libbed belt reaches an E5. There are also falsetto harmonies in the background.
It is one of the more accessible Queen songs regarding pitch range. However, getting the "cool" factor and rhythmic locking right makes it a medium difficulty track to master perfectly.
Use "vocal fry" at the start of phrases and compress your breath. Don't shout; allow the microphone (or phone) to do the work while you focus on the texture of the voice.
