The Ultimate Power Ballad Challenge
Think Twice, from Celine Dion's 1993 album The Colour of My Love, is a masterclass in dynamic control. Unlike many pop songs that stay at one volume, this track requires you to navigate extreme softs and powerful highs. It features one of the most famous guitar solos in pop history, followed by a vocal climax that demands excellent breath support.
To sing this effectively, you must be comfortable in your lower register but ready to belt high F5s with grit and emotion. It's not just about hitting the notes; it's about the "pleading" tone quality.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the Onset
In the verses, use a "breathy onset" (letting air escape before the cord closure) to mimic Celine's vulnerability. However, switch to a "glottal onset" (clean, sharp attack) for the chorus to ensure power.
Phase 1: The Intimate Verse (0:00 - 1:15)
The song begins in Eb Major. The opening lines, "Don't think I can't feel that there's something wrong," sit low in the range (around G3). Many singers lose projection here.
The Trap: Because it's quiet, singers often drop their diaphragm support. This makes the pitch flat. Keep your core engaged even when whispering the lyrics to maintain pitch accuracy.
Phase 2: The Building Chorus (1:15 - 2:30)
The chorus "Think twice before you roll those dice" lifts the energy. The melody climbs, and you need to transition from your chest voice into a strong mix.
- Diction: Celine over-articulates the 'T' in "Think" and "Twice". This percussive singing style helps rhythmic accuracy.
- Resonance: Move the vibration from your chest to your "mask" (the area behind your nose and eyes) to brighten the tone without straining the throat.
Phase 3: The Rock Climax (3:30 - End)
After the guitar solo, the song enters rock territory. Celine uses a grittier, heavier belt here. The ad-libs reach up to F5. This section requires stamina.
To survive the end of the song, use "vocal cry" or "sob" technique. Lower your larynx slightly as if you are about to cry; this tilts the thyroid cartilage and allows you to stretch the vocal cords for high notes while keeping them thick enough for that powerful belting sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
The highest belted note is an F5 during the ad-libs after the guitar solo. The main melody peaks around C5/D5.
The grit comes from "twang" and strong compression, not from grinding your throat. Practice making a "nay nay nay" sound to find the safe distortion placement.
Yes! The verses are very comfortable for Altos. The high belts might require transposition, which you can do (-2 semitones) within the Singing Coach AI app.
