Mastering the "Skateboard P" Falsetto
"Number One" is a quintessential Pharrell track from his debut solo album In My Mind. Unlike a traditional pop song that might rely on heavy chest belting, this track lives almost exclusively in the upper register. It captures that smooth, cool R&B vibe that defines the mid-2000s Neptune sound.
The main challenge here isn't range—most singers can hit a C5 in falsetto—it's tone and stamina. You need to keep the sound consistent, airy, and "pretty" without running out of breath or letting your voice crack.
AI Coach Tip: Don't Squeeze
A common mistake is tightening the throat to hit the high notes. Pharrell's tone is relaxed. Keep your jaw loose and think of the sound resonating in the top of your head, not your throat.
Phase 1: The Hook & Verses
The song stays in C Minor, and Pharrell enters with a very light, almost whispered falsetto. The melody floats around G4 to C5.
- Tone Quality: You want a "breathy" mix. Do not engage your full chest voice. If you try to belt this, you will sound too aggressive for the smooth synth-pop beat.
- The Slide: Listen to how he slides between notes. It's legato (smooth and connected), not staccato.
Phase 2: The Kanye Feature
Kanye West's verse brings a change in energy. While still melodic, it requires more rhythmic precision. He adopts a confident, slightly arrogant delivery that contrasts with Pharrell's sweet vocals.
The Flow: Focus on the downbeats. Kanye's flow is pocket-heavy. The AI Coach will be tracking your timing specifically in this section to ensure you aren't dragging behind the beat.
Phase 3: Breath Control
Because you are singing in a breathy falsetto, you are expelling air faster than usual. You will need to take quick, efficient breaths between phrases. Do not wait until you are completely empty to inhale, or the end of your phrases will go flat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. To sound like the original recording, you should use your head voice or falsetto. Singing it in chest voice changes the vibe completely.
The song is in C Minor. It has a very distinct synth-bass line that anchors the harmony.
Voice cracks happen when the vocal cords dry out or lack support. Drink water, warm up your head voice with sirens, and engage your diaphragm to support the airflow.
