Mastering the "Talk-Singing" Technique
IDGAF is a masterclass in modern pop vocal delivery. Unlike power ballads that rely on sustained belts, this song requires a cool, detached delivery known as "talk-singing" or "sprechgesang." The challenge isn't hitting high notes—it's maintaining a strong, resonant tone in your lower register while keeping the rhythm incredibly tight.
Dua Lipa is a natural Alto/Mezzo, and this song sits comfortably in the chest voice. The key is to keep the larynx neutral and avoid pushing too hard. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it, section by section.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the lyrics come fast, many users slur their words. Our analysis shows that over-articulating the consonants (t, k, p) improves timing scores significantly. Treat the voice like a percussion instrument.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Conversational)
The song starts with a muted guitar riff and vocals that sit around E3 to G3. This is quite low for many female singers.
The Trap: When singing low, many singers lose volume and "fry" out. To fix this, keep your chest posture high and use diaphragmatic support, even though you are singing quietly. Think of speaking to someone sitting right next to you.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (Building Tension)
"You say you're sorry, but it's too late now..." – Here, the melody lifts slightly, and you need to increase your intensity. This isn't about getting louder; it's about adding "twang" or brightness to your tone to cut through the mix.
- Breath Control: The phrases are long. Take a quick, silent catch-breath before "So save it, get gone, shut up."
- Rhythm: Lock into the kick drum. If you drag behind the beat, the attitude of the song is lost.
Phase 3: The Chorus (The Attitude)
This is the hook. The line "I don't give a f***" is delivered staccato (short and detached). Do not sustain these notes. The silence between the words is just as important as the words themselves.
Dua uses a technique called "vocal fry" at the end of phrases (e.g., on "love" or "us") to add texture. Practice dropping the pitch at the very end of the word to achieve this stylistic effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lowest note is an E3 in the verses. If you are a soprano and cannot reach this, try transposing the song +2 semitones in the app.
Yes, but you will need to rely more on your "chest mix." Avoid flipping into head voice for the main melody, as it will lose the gritty attitude the song requires.
The lyrics are dense. Map out your breaths. Mark your lyrics sheet with commas where you plan to breathe, specifically before the pre-chorus kicks in.
