Mastering the Modern Folk Baritone
Released on his debut album Wanted on Voyage, "Leaving It Up to You" is a classic example of George Ezra's signature style: catchy, upbeat guitar lines paired with surprisingly deep, resonant vocals. Unlike modern pop songs that push singers into the stratosphere, this track sits firmly in the baritone pocket.
The primary challenge here isn't range height—it's range depth and tone color. To sing this convincingly, you need to maintain a "warm" sound without swallowing the lyrics. Let's break down how to achieve that rich folk texture.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Chin
When reaching for the low G2 notes, many singers tuck their chin down to their chest. This actually constricts the larynx. Keep your chin level or slightly raised to keep the airway open for better low-end resonance.
Phase 1: The Verses (Relaxed Resonance)
The song stays in F Major. The verses are conversational but rhythmic. George Ezra uses a technique often called "speaking on pitch." The melody hovers around the lower end of the staff.
The Trap: Because the notes are low, singers often lose energy, causing the pitch to go flat. Keep your breath support active, even when singing quietly. Visualize singing "through" the low notes rather than pressing down on them.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus & Chorus
The energy lifts here. The lyrics "You've got to leave it up to you" require a punchier delivery. While the pitch doesn't jump drastically high (topping out around D4), the volume increases.
- Articulation: The lyrics move quickly. Focus on crisp consonants (T's and P's) to drive the rhythm forward.
- Vowel Shape: George modifies his vowels to be darker. An "Ah" sound becomes more like "Aw." This creates that round, cavernous tone he is famous for.
- Placement: Keep the vibration in your chest (sternum), avoiding the nasal mask.
Phase 3: The Style Factor
This is a folk-rock track. Avoid adding too much vibrato. Ezra's style is relatively straight-tone, with vibrato appearing only briefly at the very end of sustained phrases. If you use too much vibrato, it will sound like opera, not folk.
Practicing the "bounce" of the rhythm is key. The vocals should lock in with the acoustic guitar strumming pattern. Use the Singing Coach AI app to isolate the vocal track and hear exactly where he places the beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
The lowest significant note is a resonant G2 found in the verses. It requires a solid chest voice connection.
Yes, but the G2 might be weak. Tenors can either work on their lower extension or transpose the track up +2 to +4 semitones in the Singing Coach AI app to make the low notes shine.
Focus on "open throat" technique (think of the beginning of a yawn) and chest resonance. Keep your larynx relaxed and neutral-to-low, but avoid forcing it down artificially.
