Pre-chorus techniques used by top songwriters

Pre-Chorus Techniques Used by Top Songwriters

As every songwriter knows, the pre-chorus is a crucial part of a song's structure. It's the section that builds tension and anticipation before the chorus hits, setting up the emotional release that the listener is craving. Here are some pre-chorus techniques that top songwriters use to create that tension and make their choruses hit even harder.

1. The Lift

One way to build tension in a pre-chorus is to add a musical "lift." This could be a chord progression that rises in pitch, a melody that moves to a higher register, or a rhythmic change that creates momentum. The lift can be subtle or dramatic, depending on the effect you're going for.

For example, in Taylor Swift's hit "Blank Space," the pre-chorus features a simple but effective lift. The chords in the verse are a repetitive pattern of G, Em, C, and D, but in the pre-chorus, the chords switch to A minor, F, C, and G. This creates a sense of upward movement that builds anticipation for the chorus.

2. The Post-Chorus

Another technique is to use a "post-chorus" after the first chorus. This is a short section that follows the chorus and creates a bridge to the next verse or pre-chorus. The post-chorus can be a repetition of the chorus with added variations, a new melody that builds on the chorus, or simply a repeated phrase that creates a sense of closure.

Beyoncé's "Crazy in Love" is a great example of a post-chorus that adds an extra level of anticipation. After the first chorus, the post-chorus repeats the phrase "uh-oh, uh-oh, uh-oh, oh no no" several times, gradually increasing in intensity. This leads seamlessly into the next verse, building on the momentum of the chorus.

3. The Half-Time Feel

A half-time feel can be another powerful way to create tension in a pre-chorus. This involves slowing down the tempo or simplifying the rhythm, giving the listener a sense of pause before the chorus hits. The half-time feel can contrast with the faster tempo or more complex rhythm of the verse, making the transition to the chorus even more impactful.

In Vanessa Carlton's "A Thousand Miles," the pre-chorus has a half-time feel that creates a sense of spaciousness before the chorus hits with a full rhythm section. The pre-chorus features just a piano and vocals, with a simple but effective melody that builds anticipation.

4. The Pre-Chorus as a Bridge

Finally, some songwriters use the pre-chorus as a bridge between the verse and the chorus. In this case, the pre-chorus can be a separate section that introduces new melody or lyrics before building to the chorus, or it can be a modified version of the verse that leads seamlessly into the chorus. The main idea is to create a sense of transition, preparing the listener for the big moment of the chorus.

Katy Perry's "Firework" is a great example of a pre-chorus that acts as a bridge. After the first verse, the pre-chorus introduces a new melody and lyrics ("Do you know that there's still a chance for you? / 'Cause there's a spark in you"), building in intensity before launching into the chorus. This creates a moment of catharsis for the listener, as the tension of the pre-chorus is released in the explosive chorus.

Conclusion

These are just a few of the pre-chorus techniques that top songwriters use to create tension and anticipation in their songs. By experimenting with different chord progressions, melodies, rhythms, and lyrics, you can find your own unique style of pre-chorus that makes your choruses hit even harder. Remember, the pre-chorus is a crucial part of your song's structure, so take the time to get it right.