Songwriters Songwriters Song Structure and Form Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

What is a 'pre-chorus' in song structure?

Accepted Answer

A section that builds tension between the verse and chorus

Answer

The opening instrumental section

Answer

A repeated lyrical phrase at the end of a song

Answer

The final verse before the outro

Question 2

In AABA song form, what does the 'B' section represent?

Accepted Answer

The bridge or middle eight

Answer

The chorus

Answer

The verse

Answer

The coda

Question 3

What distinguishes a 'through-composed' song from a strophic song?

Accepted Answer

Through-composed songs have continuously new music with little or no repetition

Answer

Through-composed songs repeat the same melody for every verse

Answer

Through-composed songs always include a chorus

Answer

Through-composed songs are shorter than strophic songs

Question 4

What is the typical function of a 'post-chorus' in modern pop songwriting?

Accepted Answer

To extend the energy of the chorus with a memorable hook or chant

Answer

To introduce a new key signature

Answer

To slow the tempo before the next verse

Answer

To replace the need for a bridge

Question 5

What does the term 'turnaround' refer to in songwriting?

Accepted Answer

A short chord progression at the end of a section that leads back to the beginning

Answer

A tempo change in the middle of a song

Answer

The moment a song shifts from minor to major key

Answer

A technique where the singer changes vocal register

Question 6

Which song structure is most commonly used in contemporary hit radio (CHR) music?

Accepted Answer

Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus

Answer

AABA

Answer

12-bar blues

Answer

Through-composed