How to Write a Chorus

1. Identify Your Song's Core Message

Before writing a single word, ask yourself: What is this song really about? What emotion or idea do I want listeners to remember? Your answer becomes the foundation of your chorus. The chorus should express this core message clearly and powerfully.

2. Write Your Hook First

The hook is the most memorable phrase or melodic moment in your chorus. It's often the song title and the line that gets stuck in people's heads. Make it simple, emotionally resonant, and easy to sing.

Example hooks: "I Will Always Love You" / "Shake It Off" / "Lose Yourself" / "Don't Stop Believin'"

3. Build Around Repetition

Repetition makes your chorus memorable. Repeat your hook 2-4 times within the chorus. Repeat key phrases or melodic patterns. The more your listeners hear something, the more likely they are to remember it and sing along.

4. Create Contrast with Verses

Your chorus should feel different from your verses. If verses are low and calm, make the chorus higher and energetic. If verses are detailed storytelling, make the chorus simple and universal. This contrast makes the chorus hit harder and feel like a release.

5. Keep It Simple and Singable

A great chorus is easy to sing along to. Use simple, conversational language. Avoid overly complex words or convoluted phrases. Think about whether a crowd could chant your chorus at a concert—if not, simplify it.

6. Place Your Title Strategically

Most hit songs place the title at the beginning or end of the chorus (or both). This helps listeners remember the song name and makes it easier to find on streaming platforms. The title should be your strongest hook.

The Repeated Hook Pattern

Repeat your main hook 2-4 times with minimal variation. Common in pop, rock, and hip-hop.

The AAAB Pattern

Repeat a line three times, then deliver a different punchline or resolution on the fourth line.

The Call and Response

Alternate between two phrases or melodic ideas. Great for creating interaction and movement.

✗ Making it too complex

Overcomplicating your chorus with too many words, ideas, or melodic changes dilutes its impact. Keep it focused on one core idea.

✗ Not enough repetition

If your chorus doesn't repeat key phrases or melodic ideas, it won't be memorable. Embrace repetition—it's what makes songs stick.

✗ Weak or missing hook

Every chorus needs a clear, strong hook. If there's no standout phrase or moment, listeners won't remember your song.

✗ No contrast with verses

If your chorus sounds too similar to your verses melodically or lyrically, it won't stand out. Create clear contrast so the chorus feels like a distinct section.

What is a chorus in a song?

A chorus is the main repeated section of a song that contains the central message, hook, and title. It typically appears after each verse and is the most memorable, catchy part of the song that listeners sing along to.

How long should a chorus be?

A typical chorus is 8-16 bars long in most pop, rock, and hip-hop songs. This translates to roughly 15-30 seconds of music. The key is to make it long enough to be memorable but short enough to avoid repetitiveness.

Should the song title be in the chorus?

Yes, in most cases. Placing your song title in the chorus (usually at the beginning or end) helps listeners remember the song name and makes it easier to find. The title often serves as the main hook of the chorus.

How many times should a chorus repeat in a song?

Most songs feature the chorus 3-4 times. A common structure is: Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, Chorus, Bridge, Chorus (final). Some songs repeat the final chorus twice for emphasis.

What makes a chorus catchy?

A catchy chorus typically combines: a simple, memorable melody; repetition of key phrases; emotional resonance; a strong hook; easy-to-sing-along lyrics; and contrast with the verses. The best choruses are both musically and lyrically memorable.

Should I write the chorus first or the verse?

Many successful songwriters start with the chorus because it contains the main idea and hook. Writing the chorus first gives you a clear target for what the verses should build toward. However, there's no wrong approach—some find it easier to develop the chorus after setting up the story in the verses.