Putting the pre-chorus back in the spotlight in modern music

Putting the Pre-Chorus Back in the Spotlight in Modern Music

The pre-chorus is often an overlooked section in modern music, but it can be a powerful tool in creating a memorable and impactful song. In this article, we'll explore what makes a great pre-chorus and how it can be used effectively in contemporary music.

What is a Pre-Chorus?

Before delving into the details of what makes a great pre-chorus, let's establish what it is. A pre-chorus, also called a "lift," is a section of a song that comes after the verse and before the chorus. It is typically musically and lyrically different from both the verse and chorus, acting as a transitional section that builds tension and anticipation for the upcoming chorus.

While not every song includes a pre-chorus, it is a popular and effective songwriting technique that has been used for decades. Some famous examples of songs with memorable pre-choruses include "I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston, "Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson, and "Losing My Religion" by R.E.M.

What Makes a Great Pre-Chorus?

A great pre-chorus should fulfill several important functions within the song. First and foremost, it should build tension and anticipation for the upcoming chorus. This can be done musically, by introducing new chords, melodies, or rhythms that contrast with the verse, or lyrically, by introducing a new perspective or idea that is expanded upon in the chorus.

Secondly, a great pre-chorus should serve as a logical and satisfying transition from the verse to the chorus. It should not feel jarring or disjointed, but rather seamlessly lead into the chorus. This can be accomplished by using similar melodic or rhythmic motifs in both the pre-chorus and chorus, or by utilizing a harmonic progression that naturally resolves into the chorus.

Finally, a great pre-chorus should be musically and lyrically interesting in its own right. It should be memorable and catchy, with a strong melodic hook or memorable lyrical phrase. It should also provide a contrasting emotional or thematic perspective to the verse and chorus, adding depth and complexity to the song.

Examples of Effective Pre-Choruses in Modern Music

While pre-choruses may not be as commonly used in modern pop music as they once were, there are still plenty of examples of songs that utilize this powerful songwriting technique. Here are a few notable examples:

• "Royals" by Lorde - The pre-chorus in "Royals" builds tension and anticipation for the chorus with its hypnotic melody and sparse arrangement. The lyrical content also introduces the themes of the song, setting the stage for the chorus to drive the message home.
• "All of Me" by John Legend - The pre-chorus in "All of Me" introduces a new melody and chord progression that contrasts with the verse, building towards the powerful chorus. The lyrical content also provides a new perspective on the theme of the song, adding depth and complexity.
• "Shallow" by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper - The pre-chorus in "Shallow" builds tension with a soaring melody that contrasts with the more restrained verse. The lyrics also introduce a new perspective on the theme of the song, creating a powerful emotional impact in the chorus.

How to Use Pre-Choruses in Your Own Music

If you're interested in using pre-choruses in your own songwriting, there are several techniques that can help you create effective and impactful lift sections.

Firstly, consider the structure and pacing of your song. Where might a pre-chorus fit in to build tension and anticipation for the chorus? Experiment with different chord progressions, melodies, and lyrical themes to find the right combination that complements both the verse and chorus.

You can also take inspiration from other songs and analyze their use of pre-choruses. What makes them effective? How do they build tension and anticipation? What are the melodic and lyrical techniques used?

Finally, remember that a great pre-chorus doesn't have to be complicated or flashy. It just needs to fulfill its function of building tension and anticipation for the upcoming chorus, while also standing out on its own as a memorable and compelling section of the song.

Conclusion

While the pre-chorus may not be as ubiquitous in modern music as it once was, it is still a powerful tool in creating impactful and memorable songs. By understanding what makes a great pre-chorus and analyzing its use in popular music, songwriters can utilize this technique to add depth, complexity, and emotional impact to their own music.