Demystifying the pre-chorus section in songs

As a music lover, you may have noticed how some songs have a section that comes after the verse and before the chorus. This section is called the pre-chorus, and it plays an important role in many songs. In this article, we will dive deeper into the pre-chorus section and discover what makes it so special.

What is a pre-chorus?

A pre-chorus is a section in a song that comes after the verse and before the chorus. It is a transitional section that builds anticipation for the chorus. The pre-chorus often has a melody and lyrics that are different from the verse and chorus, creating a sense of contrast. The pre-chorus is usually repeated once or twice before leading into the chorus.

The pre-chorus serves several purposes in a song. It provides a bridge between the verse and chorus, increasing the song's dynamic range. It also allows the singer to explore different emotions and ideas, encompassing a wider range of topics than just the verse and chorus. The pre-chorus is often used to create tension and excitement, which is then resolved by the explosive chorus.

How to write a pre-chorus?

Writing a pre-chorus can be a challenging task, but with some tips, you can create one that elevates your song to the next level. Here are some things to consider:

• Build tension: The pre-chorus should create tension and set up the release in the chorus. Use a rising melody or lyrics to build anticipation for what's coming next.
• Change it up: The pre-chorus should have a different melody and lyrics than the verse and chorus. Experiment with different chord progressions, rhythms, and melodies to create a contrast with the rest of the song.
• Keep it simple: While the pre-chorus should have a different melody and lyrics than the verse and chorus, it shouldn't be too complicated. Keep it simple and easy to remember, so that it gets stuck in the listener's head.
• Keep it short: The pre-chorus should be short, usually no more than four lines. Anything longer than that risks drawing attention away from the rest of the song.
• Match the mood: The pre-chorus should match the mood and energy of the song. If the song is upbeat and happy, the pre-chorus should also be upbeat. If the song is sad, the pre-chorus should reflect that.

Examples of great pre-choruses

Now that we've discussed what a pre-chorus is and how to write one, let's look at some examples of great pre-choruses in popular songs:

• "Say You Won't Let Go" by James Arthur: The pre-chorus in this song builds tension with the lyrics "I'm so in love with you, and I hope you know, darling your love is more than worth its weight in gold." The tension is then released in the chorus with the explosive "Say you won't let go."
• "Shape of You" by Ed Sheeran: The pre-chorus in this song has a rising melody that builds anticipation for the chorus. The lyrics also change up from the verse, with "Girl, you know I want your love, your love was handmade for somebody like me."
• "Roar" by Katy Perry: The pre-chorus in this song is short and sweet, with the lyrics "I got the eye of the tiger, a fighter, dancing through the fire, 'cause I am a champion." The pre-chorus matches the energy of the song, building up to the explosive chorus.

The pre-chorus is an essential section in many songs, providing a bridge between the verse and chorus and creating tension and excitement. By following some tips on how to write a pre-chorus and studying examples of great ones in popular songs, you can elevate your song to the next level and create a memorable listening experience for your audience.