The chorus, as we all know, is the most important portion of a song.
But, why is it so crucial? What is the point of it?
We can learn this from the ancient Greeks.
The word “chorus” derives from ancient Greek theatrical actors. When a group of a dozen or more performers dance, sing, or talk in unison, this is known as a symphony.
The chorus’ purpose was to describe the action of the play so that the audience could follow along.
And that’s exactly what a song’s chorus is for.
It should convey the song’s overall message to the audience. It reiterates the key message you’ve been implying throughout the verses.
When you come to the chorus, the audience should reply, “Ah, I see.”
It makes no difference if the chorus defies expectations or complements the verse. As long as it emphasizes the song’s point.
Exercises in Chorus Writing
1. Rewrite the Chorus of Someone Else
We have an abundance of excellent choruses at our disposal. Why not take notes from them?
Take a chorus you like, learn how to play it, and then rework it as you would.
Obviously, you should never plagiarize someone else’s work. It’s not about copying; instead, it’s about putting your own stamp on things.
Begin with the same concept (maybe the same primary lyric), but change the lyrics and chords. The music should be based on the original, but you should make it your own.
You will gain knowledge. I’m fairly certain of it.
2. Pay attention to what is being said
Choose a song that is a personal favorite of yours. Pick out the chorus by paying close attention.
It’s typically the most memorable section of the song, with the most powerful lyrics.
Take notice of what distinguishes it.
3. Make a few variations on the theme
Make a few different variations of your chorus while you’re composing it.
It’s all too easy to get fixated on one rendition of your chorus, most often the first.
But make it a point to write two or three different versions of it. You may wind up with a fantastic chorus instead of a good one if you push yourself.
4. Set aside some time for yourself
Limiting the amount of time you have to write is a great exercise.
It encourages you to make better informed decisions. It allows your subconscious mind to bypass the internal editor.
How to Write a Chorus in the First Place
1. Locate Your Thesis
The first stage is to choose the subject of your song. This influences your words, melody, and even chord selection.
What would you say if you had to sum up your music in one sentence?
Keep in mind the ancient Greeks. Use your chorus to summarize the song’s main theme.
2. Make a melody and chords
I typically discover the chords and melody at the same time. That way, it feels more natural.
This is because the melody may be found in the chord notes. This is a great way to combine the two.
Play every note in the chord if you’re having difficulty finding a chorus tune. Then begin your melody using one of those notes as the first note.
Contrast is a crucial factor in making a chorus stand out.
Bring the chorus into your higher range if your verse is in your lower register. If your verse contains rhythmic phrasing, use lengthier notes in the chorus to loosen up the phrase.
Ascertain that the audience is aware of when the chorus is being played.
3. Write the lyrics
It’s time to incorporate the words into your tune after you’ve figured out the chords and melody for the chorus.
Remember that the chorus contains your primary concept.
It’s easier to make the major lyric the final line if you do it this way. This is particularly evident in pop music.
When I compose songs, I often use the opening and final lines of the chorus to bookend the primary theme.
People should be able to sing along with your chorus in any case, particularly the primary phrase.
4. Make use of a hook
The item that gets lodged in people’s minds is referred to as a hook. It may be a simple vocal “ooh” melody or it could be your major line.
Take the Beatles’ “She Loves You,” for example. The combination of “she loves you” and “yes, yeah, yeah” is very appealing.
Your hook should grab the listener’s attention.
5. Concentrate on the Rhythm
Rhythm is another technique to make your chorus more memorable.
We’re a rhythmic species. As a result, a catchy rhythm may be just as addictive as a good song.
Remember to vary the rhythm of your chorus melody from your verse melody.
6. Use Structure and Repetition
Another approach to create a more powerful chorus is to repeat a melody or phrase. (It’s the same idea as bookending your chorus.)
The more you say something, the more it becomes ingrained in your mind.
Here are a few examples of repeatable formats:
1st lyric + 1st melody
1st lyric + 1st melody
2nd lyric + 2nd melody
1st lyric + 1st melody variant
Or…
1st lyric + 1st melody
2nd lyric + 1st melody
3rd lyric + 2nd melody
1st lyric + 1st melody
This is referred to as chorus structure.
Your choruses will be less memorable and strong if it has four distinct melodies.
It has to be repeated in some way. Certainly in the chord sequence, almost certainly in the melody, and almost certainly in the words.
7. Simplify your life
When in doubt, remove it.
Taking anything out of your choruses may sometimes improve it. It’s possible that you’ll have to choose the finest concept out of the three you had.
As a songwriter, it’s one of the most difficult tasks. I understand how each concept seems unique.
However, for the purpose of the chorus, you may need to do some little surgery.
Final thoughts
These activities and techniques for creating choruses can assist you in producing better choruses.
You must devote time to your choruses. It has the potential to make or destroy your music.
It’s what gives your music a professional sound (or amateur).
So concentrate on the choruses, and the rest of the song will improve.
