The Art of the Musical Negotiation
In The Greatest Showman, "The Other Side" is a pivotal scene where P.T. Barnum (Hugh Jackman) convinces Phillip Carlyle (Zac Efron) to join the circus. It is a high-octane "patter song" that requires rhythmic precision, clear storytelling, and the ability to switch between a grounded baritone and a lighter tenor mix.
This track is less about sustained beautiful vowels and more about percussive consonants and acting. You need to convey the energy of a bar fight negotiation without losing pitch accuracy.
AI Coach Tip: Watch Your Diction
The verses are incredibly fast. Users often slur words like "opportunity" and "electricity." Practice the lyrics as a spoken poem first. Our app detects consonant clarity, so ensure your lips and tongue are active.
Phase 1: The Pitch (Jackman's Verses)
Hugh Jackman's sections sit in a comfortable Baritone range (around B2 to E4). The challenge here is the rhythmic pocket. The beat is driving, and you must sit slightly ahead of it to maintain the urgency.
Technique: Keep your larynx neutral. Don't "bark" the lyrics. Use a "speech-level" singing approach, keeping the tone conversational but resonant. Think of it as a sales pitch set to music.
Phase 2: The Counter-Offer (Efron's Verses)
Zac Efron enters with a lighter, higher placement. His character is younger and more hesitant, which is reflected in the vocal texture. He sings higher in the mix.
When singing the Efron parts, brighten your vowels. Smile slightly to lift the soft palate and encourage a "headier" mix. This contrasts nicely with the heavier tone of the Barnum sections.
Phase 3: The Chorus & The Belt
The chorus ("Don't you wanna get away...") is an explosion of energy. Both singers belt here, reaching up to G#4. This is a high note for many male singers to sustain with power.
To hit the G#4 safely, engage your core support (the "powerhouse") and avoid shouting. Use "twang" (a brassy, bright sound) to help the vocal cords zip up efficiently. If you feel strain in your throat, drop the volume and add more cry/whine into the tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest full-voice belt is a G#4 (on "get away" and "brand new"). There are falsetto ad-libs that reach up to B4.
Yes, but it is a cardio workout! The parts overlap rapidly. In the Singing Coach AI app, you can choose to sing "Both Parts" or mute one singer to practice as a duet partner.
It's a perfect hybrid. Jackman's part is ideal for Baritones, while Efron's part leans towards Tenor. A flexible Baritenor can handle the entire track.
