Mastering the Power Ballad
"Cryin'" is one of Aerosmith's definitive tracks from the Get a Grip album (1993). It showcases Steven Tyler's incredible vocal elasticity, blending bluesy low notes with piercing high screams. The song follows a dynamic structure that builds tension from the verses into an explosive chorus and a climactic finale.
To sing this well, you need more than just power. You need control over your "mix voice" to navigate the bridge and the endurance to maintain tone quality during the sustained high notes. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Manage the Grit
Many singers damage their voice trying to mimic Tyler's rasp. Use "vocal fry" compression gently rather than squeezing your throat. If you feel pain, stop immediately and switch to a clean tone.
Phase 1: The Bluesy Verses
The song starts in A Major with a relaxed feel. The line "There was a time when I was so broken hearted" sits in a comfortable speaking range. The challenge here is style, not pitch.
The Trap: Don't be too rigid. Aerosmith is rooted in the blues. Allow yourself to drag slightly behind the beat (layback) to create that relaxed, cool vibe before the energy picks up.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Build
As you approach "Your love is like a misery," the melody climbs. You must start thinning out your chest voice and introducing your head resonance. If you pull full chest weight up here, you will fatigue before the chorus hits.
- Breath Support: Engage your core more aggressively here.
- Vowel Modification: Modify "Love" towards "Lahv" to keep the throat open as you ascend.
Phase 3: The Climax and High Belt (E5)
The finale of the song features some of Tyler's most iconic wailing. The ad-libs and the final chorus belts reach up to C#5, D5, and E5.
To hit these notes, visualize the sound going up and out through the top of your head. Use a "twangy" sound (like a witch's cackle) to help the vocal cords zip up safely without blowing them apart with too much air pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted notes reach an E5, though Steven Tyler often screams and flips into falsetto even higher during live performances.
It is very challenging for a Baritone due to the sustained tessitura in the 5th octave. However, using the Singing Coach AI app, you can transpose the track down -2 or -3 semitones to make it accessible.
Cracking usually happens when the larynx raises too high. Practice the chorus in a "dopey" or "yawning" voice first to train your larynx to stay stable, then slowly brighten the sound.
