Assignment 6: Create a Chorus in Soundtrap

Writing a Chorus


For the second section of your song project, you will write a chorus. Some consider the chorus the most important part of a song and for good reasons:


  • The chorus is the most repeated part of the song.

  • It is generally the catchiest part of the song and so will be the part most listeners remember.

  • It contains the "hook" and usually has the title of the song as its lyrics.

  • It generally the most energetic and exciting part.

  • The verses build to the chorus.


Remember the attributes of a chorus before you start:

  • Repeats the same every time.

  • Often contains the title of the song.

  • Often has many people singing the melody.

  • Contains the main idea of the song.

  • Most memorable part.

  • Provides the message of the song


Even if you are writing an instrumental song (without sung lyrics) you need to keep in mind that a chorus is the most energetic part of the song.


Tips/Tricks

Beats

You want the verse and chorus to sound different but there should be a flow between the two parts. Therefore, it is up to you whether you use a new beat or just make the verse beat more lively.

One trick is to extend the beat from the verse and then add other beats or drums to make it more interesting:

Chord Progression and Motifs

You'll want to add a chordal instrument (piano, bass, guitar, etc.) or create a chord progression for the chorus. You can do this by adding loops of chordal instruments (these should be more exciting than the verse chordal part) or making a chord progression with guitar chords. You can also play your own chord progression on the keyboard or recording yourself with a mic playing chords.

Creating Melody and Motifs

The melody of the chorus is very important as it should be the most catchy and memorable.

  • Check to make sure the chordal instruments you added are in C Major or A minor. You should transpose them if they are in another key. If you don't remember how to transpose click here.

  • Use the loop tool and select one or two measures.

  • Add an instrument and pick the sound. You can search for "Lead" to find a good lead keyboard sound. You can also sing your motifs and melodies. If you don't know how to record your vocals, click here.

  • Improvise until you play something that sounds simple but satisfying.

  • Record the motif.

  • Move on to your second motif.

  • Once you have two motifs, arrange them and repeat them to make a satisfying melody.