2. The Musical Bridge
The core of a song is usually found in the verses and choruses but often songs include a third section called the "bridge."
The bridge:
Usually only happens once in a song.
It is often quite different from the rest of the song, given the song more variety.
It usually has a different chord progression from the verse or chorus.
Often occurs after two verses and two choruses.
Lyrically, the bridge is typically used to pause and reflect on the earlier portions of the song or to prepare the listener for the climax.
As an example, take Adele's "Someone Like You"
This song has a set verse:
I heard, that you're settled down
That you found a girl and you're, married now
I heard, that your dreams came true
I guess she gave you things
I didn't give to you
Old friend, why are you so shy
Ain't like you to hold back
Or hide from the light
A Pre-chorus:
I hate to turn up out of the blue uninvited but I
Couldn't stay away I couldn't fight it
I had hoped you'd see my face
And that you be reminded that for me it isn't over
A chorus:
Never mind I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best
For you too, don't forget me
I beg, I'll remember you said
Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead
Sometimes it lasts in love
But sometimes it hurts instead yeah
After another round of verse, pre-chorus, and chorus, there is a bridge which has
a different sound than the rest of the song
a different chord progression
a build in intensity
a lyrical reflection on what has been sung before in the song.
The bridge goes like this:
Nothing compares no worries or cares
Regrets and mistakes their memories made
Who would have known how bittersweet
This would taste
The majority of Pop songs follow this structure of Verse, Pre-Chorus, Chorus, Verse, Pre-Chorus, Chorus, Bridge, and Chorus.
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