How to Write a Great Chorus for a Song

The chorus is the part that is sung repeatedly throughout a song. Because of this, it is the part that people remember most. It’s also the part that is the easiest to create; once you make it, over half the song is already done.

In this video, I show how easy it is to create a chorus that sticks. Here are some quick tips: First things first, keep it simple. I can’t emphasize this enough when it comes to writing memorable choruses. Make sure to use the step and skip technique, also keep in mind that a chorus with a wide range will make it more difficult for listeners to sing along to. You could keep your chorus melody within an octave (do to do) or C to C on a piano.

Important: Use the notes of a chord as a starting point for a strong chorus. The chorus is usually at a higher pitch for energy. Therefore, in the video, I start the chorus on the I (one) chord (do-mi-sol) for that sense of arrival, which gives me three notes to choose from: do, mi, sol. I use mi to start (mi-fa-sol-sol…) as I want the music to build. Chords are provided in the video, bottom right corner. Feel free to share your thoughts. #songwriting #musictheory #musicproduction