Song Structure:
Basic Elements

Song structure may be one of the most important elements of writing a great song. When used properly it propels the song forward and holds the listener's interest. When used poorly the listener tunes out.

When we talk of song structure, or song form, we're not talking about lyrical or melodic style. We're talking about how the basic building blocks such as verse, chorus and bridge can be combined to fit together and compliment each other.

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All modern commercial songs contain some or all of the following basic elements:

• The Verse is the section of the song that tells most of the story. Each verse will have basically the same melody, but different lyrics. It builds toward and leads into the chorus. The verse is referred to as the "A" section
• The Chorus is the part that everybody remembers about a song. It usually contains the hook and the title, and is repeated several times throughout the song. When you hear the chorus, you know exactly what the song is about. In verse-chorus type songs the chorus is referred to as the "B" section.
• The Bridge or "middle eight" can be the most difficult part of the song to write. It must be completely different, both musically and lyrically, from the verse and chorus.

  Not all songs have or need a bridge. But when written effectively, a bridge provides the opportunity to add another angle to the story. You can change perspective from first-person to second or third-person if you wish. You can also change from present-tense to past or future-tense.

  In verse-chorus type songs the bridge will be between the second and third choruses, and be referred to as the "C" section. In songs without choruses, it's usually between the second and third verses. It is then referred to as the "B" section.

  I know, a little confusing! Bear with me, it gets clearer.

• The Hook is the strongest line of lyric sung over the strongest line of melody. It is usually in the chorus, is nearly always the title, and is always the most memorable part of the song. It's the part that gets stuck in your head whether you like the song or not!

It's in the way these elements are arranged that determine song structure.

For a breakdown of different types, check out the other articles listed on the How To Write A Song page.

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