A Disco Gem from "The Boss"
"Is Don't It Good to Know" is a standout track from Diana Ross's 1979 album The Boss, written and produced by the legendary duo Ashford & Simpson. Unlike the high-octane pop of the era, this song blends a driving disco beat with deep, emotive soul phrasing. It’s a song about finding resilience and refuge in love.
Singing this track requires a blend of techniques. You need the rhythmic precision to lock in with the bassline, but the vocal delivery must remain smooth, conversational, and intimately expressive. Let's break down the technical approach.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Syncopation
Diana Ross often sings just behind the beat to create a relaxed, soulful feel. Our analysis shows users often rush the verses. Listen closely to the hi-hat and let the lyrics float over the rhythm.
Phase 1: The Verses (Smooth & Warm)
The song opens in a comfortable range (around G3-A3). The goal here is warmth. Keep your larynx neutral and use chest resonance to give the lyrics weight. Diana's delivery is almost spoken-word in its clarity but maintains a melodic line.
The Trap: It's easy to sound monotone here. Use dynamics to shape the phrases, swelling slightly on the emotive words to keep the listener engaged before the energy picks up.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus & Chorus (Energy Lift)
As the song builds to the hook "Is don't it good to know," you need to brighten your tone. This isn't a heavy rock belt; it's a "bright mix." Place the sound forward in your "mask" (the nasal and cheekbone area) to cut through the disco instrumentation.
- Breath Control: The phrases are long and fluid. Take quick, deep breaths from your diaphragm between lines to sustain the energy without gasping.
- Diction: Keep the consonants crisp, especially on "Good to Know," to maintain rhythmic drive.
Phase 3: The Ad-Libs & Outro
Towards the end, Diana unleashes more power, hitting peaks around C5. This section requires stamina. The repetitive nature of disco means you have to vary your intensity and add subtle vocal runs to keep the outro interesting without over-singing.
Focus on the emotion of relief and joy. The technical notes are less important here than the feeling of the song.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main vocal melody peaks around C5 in the mixed voice during the ad-libs and energetic chorus sections.
Yes. The range is accessible for most female voices (Soprano/Mezzo). The challenge lies in the rhythm and expression rather than extreme high notes.
Diana has a unique "coo" quality—a mix of breathiness and bright, nasal resonance. Try smiling while singing the higher notes to brighten the tone naturally.
