The chorus is the heart of your song. It's the part people hum in the shower, the part crowds sing back at concerts, and the part that determines if a song is a hit. But why do some choruses stick while others are forgotten? In this guide, we explore the songwriting tips and structural secrets for writing a chorus that refuses to leave your head.

1. The Hero: The Melodic Hook

A "hook" is a short, memorable melodic phrase. Most catchy choruses rely on a hook that is simple and repetitive. If it's too complex, the listener's brain won't be able to "store" it on the first listen.

Tip: Try to keep your main chorus melody within a 5-note range (Pentatonic). This makes it easier for everyone to sing along.

2. Power in Repetition

Don't be afraid to repeat yourself. In pop music, the title of the song is often repeated multiple times in the chorus. This builds familiarity and reward in the listener's ear.

3. Structural Contrast

The chorus should feel like an "arrival." To make it jump out, it must offer contrast to the verse:

• Pitch: The chorus is usually higher in pitch than the verse.
• Rhythm: Use longer, sustained notes in the chorus if the verse is choppy and rhythmic.
• Density: The chorus should feel "bigger" (more instruments, thicker harmonies).

4. Lyrical Focus: The "Big Idea"

If the verse is for the details and the story, the chorus is for the emotion and the summary. Use universal themes like love, loss, victory, or escape. The lyrics should be simple enough for a 10-year-old to understand but deep enough for an adult to feel.

Summary

Writing a great chorus is about balancing novelty with familiarity. By mastering the hook, utilizing smart repetition, and ensuring strong contrast, you create a musical moment that listeners will want to experience over and over again.