Exploring Different Types Of Refrains

When it comes to songwriting, a key element is the refrain - a repeated section of the song that often comes at the end of a verse or chorus. Refrains can take many forms, from simple and straightforward to complex and layered. In this article, we will be exploring different types of refrains, how they function within a song, and what makes them effective.

1. The Hook Refrain

Perhaps the most common type of refrain, the hook refrain is a short and catchy phrase that is repeated throughout the song. This type of refrain is often used as the song's title and serves as a way to grab the listener's attention and keep them engaged. Examples of well-known hook refrains include "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston and "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey.

2. The Tag Refrain

Similar to the hook refrain, the tag refrain is a short phrase that is repeated multiple times in the song. However, unlike the hook refrain, the tag refrain is usually added at the end of a verse or chorus as a way to provide emphasis and create a sense of closure. Examples of tag refrains include "So wake me up when it's all over" in Avicii's "Wake Me Up" and "I believe I can fly" in R. Kelly's "I Believe I Can Fly."

3. The Layered Refrain

The layered refrain is a dynamic type of refrain that involves the repetition of multiple phrases or melodies. This type of refrain can create a sense of depth and complexity within a song and is often used in more musically intricate genres like jazz and progressive rock. Examples of layered refrains include the instrumental outro of Pink Floyd's "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" and the interwoven vocal harmonies in The Beatles' "Because."

4. The Call-and-Response Refrain

The call-and-response refrain is a type of refrain that involves one vocalist or group of voices singing a phrase and another vocalist or group of voices responding with a different phrase. This type of refrain can create a sense of dialogue or conversation within the song and is often used in gospel and blues music. Examples of call-and-response refrains include "Can I get a witness?" in Marvin Gaye's "Can I Get a Witness" and "I said hey, what's going on?" in 4 Non Blondes' "What's Up?"

5. The Vamp Refrain

The vamp refrain is a repeated musical phrase or riff that is used to build momentum and create a sense of energy within the song. This type of refrain is often used in genres like funk and soul and can provide a musical backbone for the song's lyrics and melody. Examples of vamp refrains include the rhythmic guitar riff in James Brown's "Super Bad" and the horn section in Tower of Power's "What is Hip?"

In conclusion, the refrain is a powerful tool for songwriters that can be used to create a sense of structure, emphasize important ideas, and build momentum within a song. Whether it's a simple hook refrain or a layered and complex musical passage, the refrain plays a key role in creating memorable and effective songs. So the next time you're writing a song, consider experimenting with different types of refrains to see what works best for your music.