Mastering Sting's Sophisticated Phrasing
Released in 1987 on the album ...Nothing Like the Sun, "Englishman in New York" is a masterclass in vocal control and character. Written about the eccentric raconteur Quentin Crisp, the song requires a performance that exudes poise, dignity, and a touch of melancholy. Unlike rock anthems that rely on power, this track relies on nuance.
To sing this well, you must navigate the fusion of jazz, pop, and reggae rhythms. The challenge lies in the crisp diction of the verses contrasted with the smoother melodic lines of the chorus. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Sting articulates consonants very clearly in the verses ("Toast", "Side", "Walk"). Avoid slurring words together. Our analysis shows that users who maintain crisp 'T' and 'K' sounds score 15% higher.
Phase 1: The Staccato Verses (0:00 - 0:50)
The song begins in B Minor with a distinct reggae-inspired bounce. The opening lines, "I don't drink coffee, I take tea my dear," should be sung with a conversational tone.
The Technique: Keep the notes short and detached (staccato). Do not sustain the ends of phrases. Imagine you are speaking rhythmically rather than singing a melody. This creates the "proper" English character the song describes.
Phase 2: The Chorus Flow (0:50 - 1:15)
The transition to "I'm an alien, I'm a legal alien" requires a shift in texture. Here, you should lengthen your vowels and connect the notes (legato).
- Resonance: Keep the placement forward in the mask (the front of the face) to achieve Sting's signature bright tone.
- Harmony: The melody lifts here. Ensure you are hitting the D4 and E4 cleanly without sliding (scooping) up to the pitch.
Phase 3: The Bridge Dynamics (2:10 - 2:40)
The bridge ("Modesty, propriety can lead to notoriety...") is the emotional peak. The instrumentation swells, and your voice must match it.
The line "Takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile" pushes into the upper chest register (approx F#4/G4). To hit this comfortably, engage your diaphragm support firmly and drop your jaw to create more space. Do not pinch the throat; keep the sound open and commanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest chest voice note is roughly a G4 during the bridge/ad-libs. It sits comfortably in a Tenor range but is accessible to Baritones.
It is a fusion of Jazz, Pop, and Reggae. The soprano saxophone solo by Branford Marsalis cements its jazz credentials.
Sting has a high, raspy, and bright tone. Practice singing with a smile (literally lifting your cheeks) to brighten your resonance, and focus on rhythmic precision.
