The "King of Cool's" Solo Debut
"Can I Have It Like That" marked Pharrell Williams' first solo outing on the album In My Mind. Unlike a traditional pop song, this track relies heavily on a sparse, driving drum loop and a hypnotic call-and-response structure between Pharrell and Gwen Stefani. It’s a masterclass in rhythm, attitude, and the "Neptunes sound."
To sing this well, you don't need a four-octave range. You need unwavering rhythmic precision, breath control, and the ability to switch between a laid-back chest voice and a bright, projected shout-singing style. Let’s break it down.
AI Coach Tip: Stay in the Pocket
Many singers rush the verses. The beat is minimalist for a reason. Sit slightly behind the beat (the "pocket") to capture Pharrell's effortless cool. Don't anticipate the snare.
Phase 1: The Gwen Stefani Hook
The song is anchored by the line: "You got it, you got it, you got it, you got it..." This isn't sung melodically in a traditional sense; it’s a rhythmic chant.
The Technique: Gwen uses a bright, "cheer-captain" tone. Keep your vowels narrow and your placement very forward (mask resonance). Articulate the "t" at the end of "got it" clearly to match the percussion.
Phase 2: The Pharrell Verse
Pharrell’s delivery sits right on the border of rapping and singing. The pitch oscillates around F3, but it requires a very smooth, legato flow. He sounds conversational yet strictly musical.
- Breath Control: The verses are long streams of consciousness. Plan your breaths at the commas to avoid gasping.
- Tone: Use a warm chest voice. Avoid pushing too hard; let the microphone do the work.
- Pitch: Even though it sounds spoken, maintain the central tone. The AI Coach will penalize you if you drift into a monotone speaking voice.
Phase 3: The Falsetto Ad-libs
Pharrell is famous for his falsetto. Throughout the track, you will hear high-pitched ad-libs and harmonies layered in the background. These should be light, airy, and free of tension. Do not squeeze your throat to hit high notes; flip into head voice smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a hybrid. Pharrell uses a melodic rapping style. You must hit specific pitches (mostly centered around F) for it to sound correct, but the delivery is rhythmic like rap.
Project with attitude! Imagine you are shouting across a playground. Keep the sound "bratty" and forward-placed, rather than deep in your chest.
The track sits around 102 BPM. It feels slower because of the half-time drum groove, which gives you plenty of space to focus on diction.
