The Ultimate Heartbreak Anthem
"Nothing" is a masterclass in emotional storytelling. Released on The Script's 2010 album Science & Faith, this track details the painful experience of a drunken phone call to an ex-lover. Vocalist Danny O'Donoghue balances a conversational, almost broken tone in the verses with a soaring, desperate belt in the choruses.
To sing this well, you need to sell the story. It's not just about hitting the notes; it's about sounding vulnerable without losing your technical footing. The dynamic shift from the quiet verses to the explosive chorus is the key to a high score.
AI Coach Tip: The "Cry" Technique
To sound emotive like Danny, use a slight "cry" or "whimper" in your vocal onset, especially on words like "hurt" or "pain." This lowers the larynx slightly and adds emotional weight without straining your throat.
Phase 1: The Verses (Storytelling Mode)
The song begins in a comfortable mid-range. The line "Am I better off dead, am I better off a quitter" should be sung almost like you are talking to yourself. Keep the volume low and the articulation relaxed.
The Trap: Don't sing this too "cleanly." If it sounds too polished, it loses the raw feeling of the lyrics. Allow a little breathiness in your tone during the verses.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Belt)
The energy explodes here. The repetition of "And I've got nothing, nothing, nothing" sits high in the chest/mix voice range. The highest note here is a sustained B4.
- Vowels: Modify the vowel sound in "Nothing." Instead of a wide "AH" sound, think of a narrower "UH" (Nuh-thing). This keeps the throat open and makes the high note easier to sustain.
- Breath Support: Engage your diaphragm before the chorus hits. You need steady airflow to prevent your voice from cracking on the repeated highs.
Phase 3: The Bridge (The Climax)
The bridge builds tension with the lines "I wanted words but all I heard was nothing." This section requires a more aggressive, forward placement. You are moving from sadness to frustration.
Focus on the rhythm here. The delivery becomes more staccato and punchy. This contrast makes the final chorus feel even bigger when it arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
The main vocal melody hits a B4 in the chest/mixed voice during the chorus. Danny also includes ad-libs and falsetto flourishes that may go higher.
This is a classic Tenor song. However, Baritones with a strong upper range can sing it, or use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose it down -1 or -2 semitones.
Cracking usually happens when you push too much chest weight up. Try to "thin out" the sound as you go higher, mixing in some head resonance. Practice on a "Nay" sound to find the right placement.
