The Ultimate Country Power Ballad
Rascal Flatts made "What Hurts the Most" a defining anthem of the 2000s, largely due to Gary LeVox's distinctive vocal performance. The song is a masterclass in dynamic build-up. It starts with intimate, conversational verses and explodes into a soaring, high-tenor chorus that demands significant breath support.
To sing this well, you need to balance vulnerability with power. If you push too hard in the verses, you lose the emotional arc; if you don't support the chorus, you'll strain on the high notes. Let's break down the technique.
AI Coach Tip: Watch the "Twang"
Gary LeVox uses a bright, forward placement (nasal twang) to hit high notes easily. If you feel strain in your throat, try smiling slightly while singing the chorus to lift the soft palate and brighten the sound.
Phase 1: The Verses (Intimacy)
The song begins in a lower, comfortable range (around C#3 to F#3). The line "I can take the rain on the roof of this empty house" should be sung with a breathy, almost spoken quality. Focus on diction and clear storytelling.
The Trap: Don't let the energy drop too low. Keep the air moving so the pitch doesn't go flat on the lower notes at the ends of phrases.
Phase 2: The Chorus (The Belt)
The chorus ("What hurts the most / Was being so close") jumps into the upper register. The melody hovers around F#4 and G#4. This is the "passaggio" or bridge area for many male singers.
- Vowel Modification: On words like "Most" and "Close," narrow the vowels. Think "Moh-st" rather than a wide "Ma-st." This helps keep the larynx stable.
- Placement: Direct the sound towards your nose/mask area. This "country twang" reduces the pressure on your vocal cords while maintaining volume.
Phase 3: The Bridge & Ad-libs
The bridge ("It's hard to deal with the pain...") is the emotional peak. You need to drive the sound with your diaphragm. Following the bridge, Gary performs several melismatic runs (riffs). Start by practicing these slowly on a piano before speeding them up.
Frequently Asked Questions
The core melody hits a sustained A#4/Bb4. However, Gary's ad-libs and harmonies reach up to a C5 in full voice/mix.
It is challenging for Baritones. You may need to rely more on head voice for the chorus or use the Singing Coach AI app to transpose the track down by 2 or 3 semitones.
Technically, this is done by slightly breaking the vocal onset or adding a "sob" quality to the start of the note. It requires relaxing the throat while engaging the core.
