Member Since: 1/1/2014
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TIP #4: STRUCTURE
While poetry is not required to have structure (see: free verse), all good songs should have structure and repetition in some form. Structure does not necessarily mean the presence of a standard verse/chorus format. It doesn't have to refer to the sections of a song at all.
The easiest way to convey structure IS through the sections of your song. In the majority of songs, a repeated chorus is present to convey the themes of a song and provide a memorable hook. The chorus should be the strongest part of a song. Even if strong verses are present, if the chorus packs no punch the impact of the verse is lost. The main theme of your song should be in your chorus, and the verses should explain an aspect of that theme or tell a story reflecting off of it. Avoid using big, unnecessary words when possible and make sure the meaning is accessible and not hidden behind layers of fancy words. Since the chorus is usually where the title of the song lies, make the line stand out either by utilizing your flow to draw attention to it, using repetition, or crafting a clever line around it.
Verses are where the meat of the song lies. Include sensory details, storytelling elements, and emotional aspects wherever possible. Even though they may not be the focus of the song, avoid filler lines to fill space or fit a rhyme. Make sure the theme of your song is consistent between your verses and chorus.
The bridge is the perfect time to experiment with themes or provide a plot twist. Think of it almost as a counterpoint in a paper. Provide a new angle on your story or include a plot twist. While usually the shortest and most forgotten section, the bridge can entirely change the meaning or atmosphere of a song.
Structure can be shown in other ways as well. You could try writing a song as a series of verses with a repeated line at the end of each, or create a chaismic song in which the climax lies in the center and the verses build up and fall down from it. Structure can be created in rhyming and meter as well. Don't be afraid to experiment with structure. We read dozens of songs with a typical verse/chorus/verse/chorus/bridge/chorus structure every week. If you feel your song doesn't need a second verse to be complete, leave it out. If you want to include two bridges and an outro, so be it. If a chorus feels unnecessary, find another way to provide repetition.
Remember: brilliance in songwriting lies in creativity rather than the following of set rules. Although elements of your song should be consistent throughout, vary your meter and rhyme scheme to give your song variety.
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