
Writing a good chorus is like trying to catch a moonbeam—it’s elusive, but when you do, it lights up the entire song. The chorus is the heart of your track, the part that listeners hum in the shower and scream at concerts. It’s the emotional crescendo, the hook that reels them in, and the glue that holds the song together. But how do you craft a chorus that resonates? Let’s dive into the art and science of creating a chorus that shines brighter than a disco ball at midnight.
1. Emotion is the Engine
A great chorus is fueled by emotion. Whether it’s joy, heartbreak, anger, or nostalgia, the chorus should amplify the emotional core of your song. Think of Adele’s Someone Like You—the chorus isn’t just a melody; it’s a raw, unfiltered outpouring of heartache. To write a good chorus, ask yourself: What do I want the listener to feel? Then, pour that feeling into your lyrics and melody.
2. Simplicity is Sophistication
The best choruses are often the simplest. They’re easy to remember, easy to sing, and impossible to forget. Consider Hey Jude by The Beatles—the “na-na-na-na” section is ridiculously simple, yet it’s one of the most iconic choruses in music history. Don’t overcomplicate your chorus. Focus on a strong, repetitive phrase or melody that sticks in the listener’s mind like glitter on a birthday card.
3. The Hook is the Hero
The hook is the star of the chorus. It’s the catchy bit that grabs attention and refuses to let go. A hook can be lyrical (“I will always love you”), melodic (the soaring notes in Rolling in the Deep), or even rhythmic (the stomp-clap pattern in We Will Rock You). Experiment with different hooks until you find one that feels irresistible.
4. Contrast is Key
A chorus should stand out from the verses. This can be achieved through dynamics (louder, fuller instrumentation), melody (a higher or more memorable tune), or lyrics (a shift in perspective or tone). For example, in Shape of You by Ed Sheeran, the verses are rhythmic and conversational, while the chorus explodes into a sing-along anthem. This contrast keeps the listener engaged and makes the chorus feel like a reward.
5. Repetition is Your Friend
Repetition is a powerful tool in chorus writing. Repeating a phrase or melody reinforces it in the listener’s mind, making it more memorable. Think of Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen—the repetition of “Hey, I just met you, and this is crazy” is what makes the chorus so infectious. Don’t be afraid to repeat yourself; just make sure it’s something worth repeating.
6. Tell a Story
A chorus doesn’t have to be a standalone entity—it can be the climax of your song’s narrative. Use the chorus to summarize the story, reveal a twist, or deliver the emotional punchline. In Someone You Loved by Lewis Capaldi, the chorus encapsulates the entire theme of loss and longing, making it the emotional anchor of the song.
7. Melody Matters
A great chorus needs a great melody. It should be singable, memorable, and emotionally resonant. Experiment with different melodic shapes—ascending melodies can feel uplifting, while descending melodies can feel introspective or sad. Pay attention to the rhythm of your melody, too; a syncopated or unexpected rhythm can make your chorus stand out.
8. Lyrics That Land
The lyrics of your chorus should be impactful and relatable. Avoid clichés unless you can put a fresh spin on them. Use vivid imagery, strong verbs, and concise phrasing to make your lyrics pop. For example, in Firework by Katy Perry, the chorus uses the metaphor of a firework to convey self-empowerment, making it both poetic and powerful.
9. Test It Out
Once you’ve written your chorus, test it out. Sing it to friends, play it at open mics, or record a rough demo. Pay attention to how people react. Do they start humming along? Do they ask you to play it again? If not, it might need some tweaking. A good chorus should feel natural and effortless, like it’s always existed.
10. Break the Rules
Finally, don’t be afraid to break the rules. Some of the best choruses defy convention. Maybe your chorus is instrumental, like the iconic riff in Smoke on the Water. Maybe it’s a spoken-word interlude, like in Lose Yourself by Eminem. Or maybe it’s a sudden shift in genre, like the unexpected reggae breakdown in Under Pressure. Creativity knows no bounds—so let your imagination run wild.
FAQs
Q: How long should a chorus be?
A: A chorus is typically 4 to 8 lines long, but there’s no hard rule. Focus on making it impactful rather than worrying about length.
Q: Should the chorus rhyme?
A: Rhyming can make a chorus more memorable, but it’s not mandatory. Focus on the emotional impact and clarity of your lyrics.
Q: Can a chorus be in a different key than the verses?
A: Absolutely! A key change can make the chorus stand out and add emotional intensity. Just make sure the transition feels natural.
Q: How do I know if my chorus is good?
A: If it gets stuck in your head—or better yet, in someone else’s—it’s probably good. Trust your instincts and seek feedback from others.
Q: Can a song have more than one chorus?
A: Yes! Some songs have multiple choruses, each with slight variations to keep things fresh. Just make sure they all serve the song’s overall theme.