I’m certainly not one to try to set specifications on how art should be created or made (that kind of defeats the purpose of art). Like many forms of art, songwriting doesn’t have to follow strict rules, but for your music to have wide appeal (if that’s what you’re after), it’s a good idea to understand basic song structure.

There is no doubt that there are some phenomenally creative and talented artists out there, who take unconventional approaches to writing their lyrics and melodies. I think it’s safe to say that most music listeners appreciate some sort of direction and organization. This is where the structure of the song transforms your work from chaotic ramblings to purposeful connection.

Study your favorite artists. Think of examples of your favorite songs. You will most likely find a deliberate song structure, with a clear point and direction. Now, creatives don’t usually like the idea of ​​rules or structure, but there’s a lot of creative play within the confines of a well-crafted song (and an endless catalog of popular music proves it).

In popular music there are four basic components to compose a song: verse, pre-chorus, chorus and bridge. Depending on the type of song you’re writing, all, some, or just one of these elements may be all you need.

Pour

The verse is where you tell the story and “preview” the main idea of ​​your song (driven by the chorus). Usually it’s your lyrical introduction, which reveals the themes layer by layer. This is usually where you have to grab the attention of the listeners. The following verses develop the story or expand on the central idea.

pre chorus

The pre-chorus doesn’t appear on every song, but it’s a very effective way to set up a dynamic transition into the chorus. The lyrics and melody usually follow the flow of the verse, but are clearly different. Many times it will be the same lyrical line, no matter the verse, but it can also be a great expansion and new perspective on your verses.

Chorus
This is where the central idea or theme of your song takes hold, and you drive home your hook (that part of the song that sticks in listeners’ heads). Many times the lines of the lyrics are a bit simpler here, with a dynamic melody.

Bridge

Sometimes you’ll want to insert a bridge, which usually happens later in the song (usually after the second chorus). The bridge usually has a distinctly different melody, and lyrically sums up or reveals a new take on the song’s theme. Sometimes it can just be an instrumental solo.

Input/Output

Usually this has more to do with arranging and production than actual writing. The introduction is the first thing a listener hears, so you’ll want to open up loud. Many times it is just instrumental, but lyrical lines or vocals are often present depending on the style and arrangement. The outro is the end of the song. This is where you decide the last thing the listener hears. Sometimes it’s just the chorus fading out, sometimes an abrupt stop or whatever creative arrangement you think will have the most impact.

Common song structures

The way you write, structure and arrange your song is completely up to you. Here are some of the more common fixes:

Verse/Chorus/Chorus/Chorus

Verse/Chorus/Chorus-Chorus/Bridge/Chorus

Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus

Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Chorus/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Bridge/Chorus

You have a lot of different arrangements to play with, and you can really let your creativity flourish here. If you want a more complex fix, you can try something like:

Long Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Short Verse/Pre-Chorus/Chorus/Bridge/Chorus

The more you play and develop your arrangements, the better you will get at it. The biggest hurdle to jumping is getting out there and getting started!