How to Change the Key of a Vocal

The short version

Find the keys

Use the song key finder on the beat, and sing or play the vocal’s range to see where it sits. Knowing both keys tells you how far to move.

Move the vocal by a small number of semitones. A few semitones usually sound natural; a large move can make a voice sound like someone else.

Check the highest and lowest notes. A key change that makes the top note strained or the bottom note too weak is the wrong key.

The key and speed tool moves a clip by semitones. Change in small steps, and play the whole song after each change.

Key and speed in Tunedzy moves a vocal by semitones. Check the highest and lowest notes after each move.

How many semitones is a good move?

Usually a few. Check the singer’s range rather than a number.

Does changing key change the voice?

A little. Large changes can alter the character of the voice.

Should I change the beat or the vocal?

Usually the vocal, because beats are harder to move cleanly.