The Ultimate Campfire Singalong
"If I Had $1000000" by Barenaked Ladies is more than just a song; it's a test of vocal chemistry and comedic timing. Released on their debut album Gordon, it became their signature track. Unlike vocal powerhouses that require massive range, this song requires charm, diction, and a relaxed conversational tone.
The song relies heavily on the interplay between Ed Robertson and Steven Page. While the melody is relatively simple, maintaining the energy through the repetitive call-and-response structure—and nailing the improvised outro—is where the real challenge lies. Here is how to master it.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
Because the lyrics are rapid and conversational, many singers slur words like "Pre-wrapped sausages" or "Green dress." Our analysis shows that crisp consonant articulation improves scoring significantly.
Phase 1: The Conversational Verse
The verses are sung in a "speech-level" singing style. The pitch is stable, hovering around the comfortable middle range of the voice.
The Trap: Trying to sing it "too pretty." This is folk-rock. Keep your tone forward and bright, almost as if you are just talking to a friend, but sustain the vowels slightly to keep it musical. Avoid heavy vibrato.
Phase 2: The Call and Response Chorus
The chorus features a classic call-and-response. One voice sings "If I had a million dollars," and the echo repeats it immediately.
- The Lead: Sits on the root notes and guides the melody.
- The Harmony: Often sits a third above. If you are singing the harmony part, ensure you don't overpower the melody. Blend is key here.
- Timing: The response must be snappy. Do not drag the beat.
Phase 3: The Ad-Lib Outro
The song ends with roughly a minute of banter about Kraft Dinner, Dijon Ketchup, and limousines. While this isn't "singing" in the traditional sense, it requires rhythm.
To score well here, you must keep the rhythmic flow of the speech consistent with the beat of the music. Treat the spoken words like percussion instruments.
Frequently Asked Questions
The melody is quite contained, rarely going above an F#4. It is very accessible for most male and female singers without needing to belt.
The Singing Coach AI app allows you to choose which part you want to sing. You can take the lead melody or practice the higher harmonies.
Repetition is key. Start by learning the specific "items" bought in each verse (House, Furniture, K-Car, Fridge) to create a mental map of the song.
