The Anthem of Feminine Rage
"Nightmare" marks a distinct shift in Halsey's discography, moving from whisper-pop into 2000s-inspired nu-metal and pop-rock. The track relies heavily on attitude, dynamics, and a distinct contrast between the suppressed verses and the explosive chorus.
To sing this well, you need more than just pitch accuracy; you need character. The delivery requires switching between a conversational, almost spoken-word style and a full-throated belt. Let's break down exactly how to tackle it.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Grit
It's tempting to scream the chorus, but raw screaming damages vocal cords. Our analysis suggests using "twang" and a high larynx position to simulate the grit while maintaining safe airflow.
Phase 1: The Verses (Low & Spoken)
The song starts in the lower register (around E3). The lines "I keep a record of the wreckage of my life" should be delivered with crisp diction. There is very little melody here—it is rhythmic speaking.
The Trap: Many singers lose energy here because the volume is low. Keep your diaphragm engaged even when whispering to maintain intensity.
Phase 2: The Pre-Chorus (Building Tension)
As you move into "I'm no sweet dream, but I'm a hell of a night," the range begins to climb. You need to start mixing your chest voice with a bit of head resonance to lighten the load before the heavy chorus hits.
Phase 3: The Chorus Belt (Power)
The chorus is pure energy. "No, I won't smile, but I'll show you my teeth" demands a strong forward placement. The melody hovers around C5 and peaks at E5.
To hit these notes with the required aggression, visualize the sound coming out of your nose (mask resonance). This "nasty" sound cuts through the guitars without requiring you to push excessive air, which would lead to vocal fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is an E5, though there are higher ad-libs in the background layers.
Not necessarily, but you need to be comfortable with "ugly singing." This song isn't about looking pretty; it's about conveying anger. Practice making "nyah-nyah" sounds to find the right placement.
The bridge ("Someone like me can be a real nightmare") is fast and rhythmic. Treat it like a rap verse. Slow it down in the Singing Coach AI app to 75% speed to lock in the consonants.
