Don't skip the pre-chorus!
Don't Skip the Pre-Chorus!
If you're a music fan, you might have heard the term "pre-chorus" before. But what exactly does it mean, and why is it so important? In this article, we're going to dive deep into the pre-chorus and explore why it's a critical part of any great song.
What is a Pre-Chorus?
A pre-chorus is a section of a song that comes after the verse and before the chorus. It's usually shorter than the verse and chorus and acts as a transitional piece between the two. The pre-chorus serves as a buildup to the chorus, both musically and lyrically.
The pre-chorus typically uses a different melody and chord progression than the verse and chorus, creating a sense of tension and anticipation. Lyrically, the pre-chorus often introduces a new idea that's related to the theme of the song but is distinct from the verse.
Why is the Pre-Chorus Important?
The pre-chorus serves several essential functions in a song. First and foremost, it builds anticipation for the chorus. By using a different melody and chord progression, the pre-chorus creates a sense of tension that's released when the chorus finally arrives. This tension and release are what make the chorus feel so satisfying.
The pre-chorus also helps to break up the monotony of the song structure. Without a pre-chorus, the verse and chorus can start to feel repetitive after a few repetitions. The pre-chorus provides a needed change of pace that keeps the listener engaged and interested.
The pre-chorus is also an excellent opportunity for a songwriter to introduce a new idea or hook. By using a different melody and chord progression, the pre-chorus can make this new idea or hook stand out, ensuring that it's memorable and impactful.
Examples of Great Pre-Choruses
Now that we've talked about what a pre-chorus is and why it's important let's take a look at some examples of great pre-choruses. These pre-choruses stand out for their use of tension, release, and introduction of new ideas.
- Billie Eilish's "Bad Guy" - The pre-chorus of "Bad Guy" uses a driving bassline and percussion to create tension, while Billie's vocals get softer and more delicate. This tension is released when the chorus arrives, and the bassline drops out, creating a sense of release.
- Adele's "Hello" - In the pre-chorus of "Hello," Adele changes from a lower register to a higher register, creating tension and anticipation for the chorus's high notes. This tension and release are incredibly satisfying.
- Beyonce's "Crazy in Love" - The pre-chorus of "Crazy in Love" introduces a new vocal melody and percussion rhythm, distinguishing it from the verse. This new melody and rhythm are catchy and memorable, making the pre-chorus one of the song's highlights.
In Conclusion
The pre-chorus is a critical part of any great song. It creates tension and anticipation, breaks up the monotony of the song structure, and provides an opportunity for a songwriter to introduce a new idea or hook. So the next time you're listening to your favorite song, pay attention to the pre-chorus. It might just be the secret ingredient that makes the song so great.