Is there a way to bend a clip

I have never bent an audio clip. If I had to right now, I could think of two different ways.
1. Use Melodyne
2. Put the notes to bend on a separate track, and then use a pitch audio effect just on that track and blend into the main track (cross fade) when you need to give a gliding effect.
...and a third method:
3. Figure out some way to add a pitch pitch effect to the track that could then be manipulated with an envelope. This actually would be the best way if possible, but a one-minute search does not reveal one to me. As you suggest, maybe someone has done this before and has a better answer. Good luck!