What does the cryptic crossword clue "Undertones performed like this - drunk, one failing to sing? (5,4)" mean?

The definition is "Undertones performed like this". The wordplay uses a charade (building blocks). SOT (synonym="drunk/drunkard") + TO (synonym="drunk/drunkard") + VO (synonym="VO") + CE (synonym="I [one] not found in TO VOICE") = SOTTO VOCE; definition: "Undertones performed like this" The answer is SOTTO VOCE.

Undertones performed like this - drunk, one failing to sing? (5,4)

Times Cryptic #29257 | 10 Across | 2025-06-16 flower

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