How to Learn and Sing ‘I Did Something Bad’ by Taylor Swift
‘I Did Something Bad’ by Taylor Swift is a powerful pop anthem which combines her usual narrative style with a unique vocal technique – vocal fry. Let’s delve into how to learn this specific song with associated techniques.
The Vocal Techniques
The vocal technique uniquely used in this song is the Vocal Fry. The phrase “They say I did something bad” starts with a distinctive vocal fry on ‘They’. Vocal Fry is a lower vocal register, described as a “rattly, buzzing” sound at the inception of words. This technique, when used strategically, enhances the emotional delivery and authenticity of your vocals. Many popular artists, including Billie Eilish in ‘Bad Guy’ and Brittany Spears in ‘Oops! I did it again’, have utilised Vocal Fry.
Vocal fry can be learnt and practiced using our Vocal Distortion & Growling guide. Also, assessing your voice type and reaching a comfortable range will help you master the technique.
Take our vocal range test to find your comfortable range. You can also understand more about voice types using our guide.
How to Learn ‘I Did Something Bad’
Firstly, start by finding the song that matches your own vocal range and your genre preferences to efficiently learn.
Invest in understanding the unique application of the techniques used in the song. Begin by practicing vocal fry and gradually add it into the song.
Use our vocal pitch monitor to gauge if you’re nailing the notes just as they’re meant to be, while you practice.
As with any song, breathing is integral while singing ‘I Did Something Bad’. Swift’s phrasing is quite fluid and relies on strong breath control. Use the Breathing Basics guide for help.
Perfect articulation brings a song to life. Focus on the pronunciation of words and phrases with our articulation guide.
Practice makes perfect. Constantly apply these techniques while ensuring to monitor your progress.
Monitor Your Progress
Progress can be slow and it’s important to be patient. Always keep track to keep yourself motivated and understand where improvements are needed. Use our pitch accuracy test and pitch training to enhance your pitch accuracy and range.
Above all, the crux of singing any song with confidence is to love and understand the song thoroughly. Breathe it, make it your own.
Happy practicing!