The Art of the Intimate Duet
"City of Stars" from La La Land is a masterclass in understated singing. Composed by Justin Hurwitz, the song captured the Academy Award for Best Original Song not because of vocal gymnastics, but because of its haunting melody and emotional vulnerability. It requires a different skillset than pop belting: you need control, subtlety, and a good ear for harmony.
Whether you are singing Ryan Gosling's lower part, Emma Stone's breathy upper register, or tackling it as a solo, the goal is to keep the sound "conversational." Let's break down the techniques required to master this track.
AI Coach Tip: Resist the Urge to Belt
Analysis shows 60% of users push too much air on the chorus. The song is meant to sound like a whisper in a crowded room. Keep your larynx neutral and use a "speech-level" volume.
Phase 1: The Low Register (Ryan's Verse)
The song opens in F# minor with a low, rhythmic piano. Ryan's vocal line starts around A2. For Tenors, this might feel low. Do not "fry" your voice to get there. Instead, relax your jaw and allow the sound to resonate in your chest.
The Trap: The rhythm is syncopated. It swings. If you sing it straight on the beat, it sounds robotic. Listen closely to the piano accompaniment and lean into the backbeat.
Phase 2: The Entrance (Emma's Verse)
Emma Stone enters with a lighter, airier tone. She isn't using a strong operatic head voice; she is using a breathy mix. The lyrics "Who knows... is this the start of something wonderful" require a smile in the voice to brighten the tone.
- Breathing: Take smaller, silent breaths. Large gasps will ruin the intimate mood.
- Diction: Keep consonants soft. Hard 'T's and 'K's can sound jarring against the soft piano.
Phase 3: The Harmonies (The Duet)
When the voices join, they typically move in thirds. This is the hardest part for beginners. If you are singing the lower harmony, you must hold your ground while the melody moves above you.
The bridge ("I don't care if I know...") adds intensity. You can increase volume slightly here (mezzo-forte), but bring it right back down for the final "City of stars... you never shined so brightly."
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest note generally hit in the main melody is a C#5 (Emma's part), though it is sung softly without belting.
Yes. The Singing Coach AI app offers a solo mode where it plays the complementary vocal track so you can practice harmonizing alone.
Allow a little more air to escape through your vocal cords than usual (imperfect cord closure). However, be careful not to dry out your throat; drink plenty of water.
