Exploring Different Types of Song Structures Commonly Used in Popular Music
Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions and connect people from different backgrounds. At the heart of every great song lies a well-crafted structure that carries the listener on a journey from beginning to end. While there are countless ways to structure a song, certain templates have stood the test of time and are commonly used in popular music. In this article, we will explore some of the most common song structures and provide practical examples to help you understand their role in creating a hit song.
1. The Verse-Chorus Structure
One of the most popular and recognizable song structures is the verse-chorus structure. This format usually consists of alternating verses and choruses, with a bridge or breakdown section in between. The verse establishes the story or theme of the song, while the chorus serves as the memorable hook that ties everything together. A perfect example of this structure can be found in the song “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran, where the verses tell a story about falling in love, and the chorus repeats the catchy and infectious hook, “I’m in love with your body.”
2. The AABA Structure
Another common structure in popular music is the AABA format. This structure consists of two consecutive verses (A), followed by a bridge (B), and then a repeat of the first verse (A). The AABA structure is often used in ballads and love songs, as it allows for a gradual build-up of emotion. A classic example of this structure is the song “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” from the movie “The Wizard of Oz.” The two verses establish the longing and desire for a better life, while the bridge offers a glimmer of hope before ending on the repeated first verse.
3. The ABAB Structure
The ABAB structure is similar to the verse-chorus structure, with the main difference being that the chorus is replaced by a second verse. This creates a more repetitive and cyclical feel to the song, making it easy for listeners to sing along. Many pop songs use this structure, including the chart-topping hit “Can’t Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. The A sections in this song consist of verses, while the B sections are used for the pre-chorus and bridge.
4. The Verse-Pre-Chorus-Chorus Structure
The verse-pre-chorus-chorus structure is a favorite among songwriters looking to create a dynamic and engaging song. As the name suggests, this structure starts with a verse, followed by a pre-chorus that builds tension and leads to the catchy and explosive chorus. This format can be found in the popular song “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic, where the verse builds up to the pre-chorus with the lyrics “Everything that drowns me makes me wanna fly,” before culminating in the powerful chorus, “Lately, I’ve been, I’ve been losing sleep/Dreaming about the things that we could be.”
5. The Rondo Structure
The rondo structure is commonly used in classical music but has also made its way into popular music. This format consists of a repeating section, or refrain, that alternates with contrasting episodes. A well-known example of this structure can be found in the Beatles’ song “Hey Jude.” The chorus, “Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na,” serves as the refrain and is repeated throughout the song, while the contrasting episodes are the verses that tell the story of a heartbroken person trying to feel better.
In conclusion, song structures serve as the backbone of a song and can greatly impact its success. While there are numerous ways to structure a song, these five formats are commonly used in popular music and have proven to be effective in creating hit songs. As you continue your musical journey, take the time to explore different song structures and find the one that best fits your storytelling style. Remember, music is an art form, and there are no set rules. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and create your own unique structure that resonates with your audience. As long as your song connects with people and evokes emotion, it has the potential to become a timeless hit.