The Art of the Slow Build
Performed by Diana Ross for the 1978 film adaptation of The Wiz, "Believe in Yourself" is a masterclass in emotional arc and vocal control. Unlike many pop songs that maintain a steady volume, this ballad demands a journey from a delicate whisper to a triumphant roar.
To sing this effectively, you must resist the urge to sing too loudly too soon. The song relies on your ability to hold back power until the final modulation, creating a sense of earning the climax. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Phrasing is Key
Diana Ross is famous for her clear diction and smooth legato. Don't chop the sentences. Imagine the melody as a continuous ribbon of sound, connecting the end of one word to the beginning of the next.
Phase 1: The Verse (0:00 - 1:15)
The song begins in G Major. The opening lines, "If you believe, within your heart," should be sung with a mix of breathy tone and chest resonance. It should feel intimate, as if you are speaking to a close friend.
The Trap: Many singers lose pitch accuracy when singing quietly. Ensure you are still supporting the breath from your diaphragm, even at low volumes, to keep the pitch center stable.
Phase 2: The Build (1:15 - 2:30)
As the instrumentation thickens, so must your voice. You need to transition from that breathy texture into a cleaner, more forward-placed sound. The lyrics "Believe in yourself, right from the start" require more engagement of the chest muscles.
- Resonance: Move the vibration from your mouth to the "mask" (the area around your nose and eyes) to gain projection without strain.
- Vowels: Keep your vowels tall. On words like "heart" and "start," drop your jaw vertically to create a richer tone.
Phase 3: The Climax (2:30 - End)
The song builds to its peak with the repetition of the word "Believe!" Here, Diana Ross utilizes a powerful mixed belt, hitting E5s with conviction. The key is to keep the throat open.
To hit these high notes safely, use the "cry" technique. Tilt your thyroid cartilage slightly (simulate a whimpering feeling) to thin out the vocal cords while maintaining the power of your chest voice. This allows you to belt the E5 without cracking.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest sustained belted note is an E5 during the ad-libs at the end. The core melody sits comfortably between G3 and C5.
It is moderately difficult. While the range isn't extreme, the breath control required for the long, slow phrases can be challenging for beginners.
Diana has a very bright, "bell-like" quality. Try smiling slightly while singing to lift your soft palate and brighten your tone, especially on the higher notes.
