Mastering the Nu-Metal Vocal Style
Going Under is a defining track of the early 2000s rock era. Amy Lee's vocal performance is characterized by a dramatic shift between vulnerability and aggression. To score high on this track, you must master the art of "safe distortion" and dynamic control.
The song is sung in the key of B Minor. While the notes themselves aren't impossibly high, the power required to sustain them over heavy guitars without straining your throat is the real challenge. Here is your roadmap to nailing the track.
AI Coach Tip: Save Your Breath
In the verses ("Now I will tell you what I've done for you..."), sing with a breathy tone but do not exhale all your air. If you run out of air before the pre-chorus, you will lack the support needed for the belt. Keep your diaphragm engaged even when whispering.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Dark)
The verses sit in the lower register of the female voice (E3 to B3). The goal here is intimacy. You want a "spoken" quality, almost like a confession.
Technique: Use a darker vowel placement. Shape your mouth vertically rather than smiling. This adds the "gothic" resonance that Evanescence is known for. Avoid vocal fry here; keep the tone clean but soft.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus Climb
On the line "I'm dying again," the energy shifts. You need to transition from your breathy tone to a solid chest mix. This is where you begin to "lean" into the sound.
- Volume: Increase gradually. Don't jump to 100% volume yet.
- Compression: Tighten your vocal cords slightly to remove the breathiness. This prepares you for the belt.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (High Energy)
The chorus ("Going Under!") requires a powerful belt up to D5 and E5. This is the emotional peak of the song.
To hit these notes safely, you must use "twang" and forward placement. If you try to yell these notes from your throat, you will strain instantly. Aim the sound towards your nose/mask area while keeping your jaw dropped and relaxed. This creates the piercing, powerful sound Amy Lee is famous for.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lead vocal belts up to an E5 during the final chorus ad-libs. The main melody sustains heavily around D5.
Amy Lee uses a technique called vocal fry or false chord engagement at the very end of phrases. Practice doing a "frustrated sigh" gently to find this texture without hurting your cords.
Yes! The song works very well for Tenors in the original key (singing an octave down), or you can use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the track -2 or -3 semitones for Baritones.
