SZA and Jhené Aiko have two of the most distinctive vocal styles in R&B, blending effortless agility, smooth tone, and rhythmic creativity into their singing. If you’ve ever tried to mimic their vocal runs, you’ve probably noticed that while they sound natural and vibey, they actually require precision and technique to execute properly.
In this guide, we’ll break down SZA’s vocal runs in “Hit Different” and Jhené Aiko’s vocal runs in “Magic Hour.” I’ll show you how to replicate their agility, build control, and sing with ease, just like these two R&B style queens.
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SZA’s Vocal Runs in "Hit Different"
SZA has a way of making her runs sound effortless and casual, even when they require quick precision and rhythmic play. In “Hit Different,” she uses three-note runs that drop down and climb back up, a signature of her vocal style.
1. The Three-Note Run ("Declining")
One of the first runs in the song happens on the word: "Declining" → "De-cline-ing" (Three descending notes, then a climb back up.)
How to Practice:
- Sing each note slowly before speeding up.
- Lighten your tongue movement so the notes don’t feel heavy.
- Keep the middle note short so it doesn’t drag the run down.
Pro Tip: If you struggle with low notes, try using a slightly more open "ah" vowel instead of a closed "ih" to bring the sound forward.
2. The Mid-Range Run ("Please Don’t Deny Me")
Another standout moment in “Hit Different” is when SZA jumps from a lower note to a higher one, then descends in a four-note run on the word "me."
Example Run: "Please don’t deny me" → "Me-ee-ee-ee" (Four descending notes)
How to Practice:
- Focus on keeping your head voice light as you jump to the higher note.
- Let a little nasal resonance help ease the transition.
- Maintain consistent airflow so the notes stay fluid.
Pro Tip: If your high notes feel disconnected from your low notes, try an "inner smile" to create a smoother transition.
Jhené Aiko’s Vocal Runs in "Magic Hour"
Jhené Aiko’s runs in “Magic Hour” are softer, fluid, and breathy, giving her that signature dreamy sound. She often adds an "H" sound to the start of her runs, making them feel even smoother and more effortless.
1. The Soft, Smooth Run ("It Was")
At the start of “Magic Hour,” Jhené does a three-note descending run on the words "It was", setting the relaxed mood of the song.
Example Run: "It was" → "It-was" (Three descending notes)
How to Practice:
- Add a soft "H" before the first note: "H-it was" for a smoother tone.
- Keep the jaw and tongue relaxed to let notes flow effortlessly.
- If the run feels sticky, lighten the vocal weight and let airflow glide through the notes.
Pro Tip: If your runs feel choppy, try singing on "ooh" or "ah" first before adding lyrics.
2. The Fast, Rhythmic Run ("Bye")
Later in “Magic Hour,” Jhené speeds up her runs, playing with rhythm and phrasing. On the word "Bye," she adds an extra note at the bottom, making it a four-note descending run.
Example Run: "Bye" → "Bye-ee-ee-ee" (Four descending notes, last 3 are faster)
How to Practice:
- Start by singing the first note slightly longer, then speed up the last three notes.
- Keep airflow steady. Don’t cut off breath support mid-run.
- Tap along with the rhythm to internalize the timing of the notes.
Pro Tip: If your timing feels off, slow the run down and use a metronome to build consistency before speeding it up.
Comparing SZA’s "Hit Different" vs. Jhené Aiko’s "Magic Hour"
Even though SZA and Jhené Aiko both use smooth, precise vocal runs, their approaches are distinctly different:
SZA’s Runs in "Hit Different"
- Short, fast, and punchy
- Mostly three-note runs that drop down, then jump back up
- Often placed in hooks or key emotional moments
Jhené Aiko’s Runs in "Magic Hour"
- Soft, breathy, and fluid
- Uses descending runs with rhythmic variation
- Includes "H" sounds to create smooth transitions
What They Have in Common:
- Both use quick, controlled three-note runs.
- Both incorporate breathiness for a relaxed, vibey feel.
- Both play with rhythm and timing, making their runs sound organic and natural.
All of which is important for learning how to sing R&B style.
How to Train for SZA & Jhené Aiko-Style Runs
If you want to develop agility and control for these types of runs, try these exercises:
1. Speed Builder Drill (for SZA’s Punchy Runs)
- Choose a 3-note run and sing it slowly first.
- Gradually increase speed while keeping each note crisp and defined.
- Repeat the run back and forth to develop control and fluidity.
2. Soft Onset Control (for Jhené Aiko’s Breathiness)
- Add a soft "H" before your vowels: "H-it was" instead of "It was."
- Practice sustaining the breathy tone before adding vocal runs.
3. Rhythm Training (for Both Styles)
- Tap the timing of the run with your fingers while singing.
- Isolate the first and last notes, then add the in-between notes gradually.
By incorporating these techniques, you’ll develop control, accuracy, and agility, all essential for nailing how to sing R&B vocal runs.
Want to Sing R&B Vocal Runs Like a Pro?
Mastering SZA and Jhené Aiko’s vocal runs takes time, but with the right techniques and personalized coaching, you can develop pro-level agility, tone, and breath control.
Need expert coaching? Work with me 1:1! Get R&B Vocal Coaching with Kristal Cherelle at Indie Artist School.
Develop your tone, control, and agility so you can sing with confidence and ease!