The Anthem of Dark Pop
Released as the lead single for their 2015 album Wiped Out!, "R.I.P. 2 My Youth" is a funeral for childhood. Lead singer Jesse Rutherford delivers a vocal performance that balances gritty, rhythmic verses with a soaring, melodic chorus. It captures the transition into adulthood with a cinematic, moody atmosphere.
To sing this track effectively, you need to master the art of "speak-singing" while maintaining pitch, and then seamlessly switch to a full chest belt for the emotional peaks. Let's break down exactly how to tackle the vibe of The Neighbourhood.
AI Coach Tip: Focus on Attitude
Rutherford's delivery is all about "cool." Don't over-enunciate every word in the verses. Let the words flow together slightly to match that hip-hop influenced cadence, but keep your rhythm tight to the beat.
Phase 1: The Verses (0:14 - 0:54)
The song starts with a distinct drum beat, and the vocals enter with "Put me in the dirt, let me be with the stars." The range here is very comfortable for Baritones and low Tenors.
The Trap: Because it feels like talking, singers often go flat. Ensure you are actually hitting the notes in the D minor scale rather than just speaking. Keep your larynx neutral to slightly lowered to achieve that darker, moodier tone color.
Phase 2: The Chorus (0:54 - 1:22)
The energy explodes here. "R.I.P. to my youth..." requires more breath support. You want a clear, forward-placed sound.
- Dynamics: Step up the volume significantly compared to the verses. This contrast is what gives the song its power.
- Phrasing: The line "And I was naïve" stretches out. Don't clip the end of the word; use a bit of vibrato at the tail end of the phrase to add emotion.
- Vowels: Modify your vowels on higher notes to be more open (e.g., "Youth" should sound more like "Y-ooh-th" with a drop jaw).
Phase 3: The Bridge & Ad-libs
As the song progresses, you'll hear background vocals and ad-libs often in falsetto or a high mix. The "Whoa-oh" sections provide a textural contrast to the lead vocal. Keep these light and airy to avoid sounding like you are shouting.
The final chorus involves more aggression. Feel free to add a little "grit" or vocal fry to the onset of words like "Die" or "Dirt" to emphasize the rock element of the track.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's a blend. The verses use a rhythmic flow similar to rapping, but there is a definite melody. Treat it as "melodic rap" or R&B-influenced alternative.
The lead vocal hits around an A4 in chest/mix voice during the energetic parts of the chorus, though much of the song sits comfortably in the 3rd octave.
Jesse uses a lot of "vocal fry" at the beginning of phrases and keeps his resonance in his chest. Avoid singing too "heady" or bright until you reach the falsetto ad-libs.
