Believe

recording by Cher

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 19, 2026

Quick Summary

The song "Believe" by Cher is notable for its pioneering use of Auto-Tune as a distinct vocal effect. Introduced in 1997 by Antares Audio Technologies, Auto-Tune is a software plug-in designed to correct the pitch of voices and instruments. While initially intended for subtle studio adjustments, it evolved into a creative tool. Cher's 1998 hit "Believe" became the first major song to feature deliberately enhanced, glitchy vocals using Auto-Tune, reaching number one on the charts and popularizing this effect across various music genres. This innovative use transformed Auto-Tune from a corrective device into a stylistic element in pop music.12

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

Cher
Later music career
… for the dance single “Believe,” which went to number one on the Billboard chart. “Believe” was the first hit song to make use of Auto-Tune, a form of technology that allows studios to digitally enhance a singer’s pitch.
Read More
… for the dance single “Believe,” which went to number one on the Billboard chart. “Believe” was the first hit song to make use of Auto-Tune, a form of technology that allows studios to digitally enhance a singer’s pitch.
Read More

Auto-Tune
Impact on the music industry
Her song “Believe” (1998) features deliberately enhanced glitchy vocals, and it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the oldest woman, at the age of 52, to top the chart. Other artists across multiple genres soon began using the technology, asking their sound engineers…
Read More
Her song “Believe” (1998) features deliberately enhanced glitchy vocals, and it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the oldest woman, at the age of 52, to top the chart. Other artists across multiple genres soon began using the technology, asking their sound engineers…
Read More