How to Write a Catchy Chorus that Sticks
A chorus is the heart of a song. It’s the part that listeners remember, the hook that sticks in their minds, and the emotional climax of your track. Whether you’re writing a pop song, rock anthem, or indie ballad, a great chorus can make all the difference. So, how do you craft a catchy chorus that people will be humming long after the song ends? Here are some tips to help you write a chorus that sticks.
Keep It Simple and Memorable
The best choruses are often simple, repetitive, and easy to sing along with. You want your chorus to be something that sticks in the listener’s head after just one or two listens.
- Short and Sweet
Aim for a chorus that’s concise and to the point. Avoid over-complicating the melody or lyrics. Classic examples like “Hey Jude” by The Beatles or “Someone Like You” by Adele are memorable because their choruses are simple yet powerful. The simpler the chorus, the easier it is for listeners to latch onto. - Repetition is Key
Repetition helps make your chorus unforgettable. Repeating key lines or phrases ensures that the song sticks in your listener’s memory. Think of phrases like “Don’t stop believin’” (Journey) or “I will survive” (Gloria Gaynor). The repetition makes the message more impactful and familiar.
Write Lyrics That Are Emotional or Relatable
A catchy chorus doesn’t just rely on melody—it also needs lyrics that connect with listeners on an emotional level. Whether it’s joy, heartache, or empowerment, tapping into universal feelings will make your chorus more memorable.
- Universal Themes
Write lyrics about universal themes like love, heartbreak, hope, or celebration. These themes resonate with a broad audience and create an emotional connection. For instance, “Rolling in the Deep” by Adele taps into the pain of betrayal, making it relatable to anyone who’s experienced heartbreak. - Evoking Emotion
Your lyrics should make people feel something. A powerful chorus has the ability to evoke emotions, whether it’s excitement, sadness, or nostalgia. When listeners feel connected to the words, they’ll be more likely to remember the chorus long after the song ends.
Use Strong, Memorable Melodies
A great melody is the backbone of a catchy chorus. Think of it as the hook that grabs the listener’s attention and keeps them coming back for more. Strong melodies are usually simple, repetitive, and tuneful.
- Singable and Flowing
Make sure your melody is easy to sing along with. A catchy chorus has a natural flow that feels effortless to sing. Songs like “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift or “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars have melodies that are catchy and fun to sing, which is why they’ve become so iconic. - Melodic Range
Consider the melodic range of your chorus. Often, a catchy chorus will have a melody that’s slightly higher or more dynamic than the verses, creating a contrast that stands out. This helps the chorus feel like a lift or release, making it feel more impactful and memorable.
Craft a Strong Hook
A hook is a central phrase or idea in your chorus that grabs attention and sticks in your listener’s mind. It’s the core message or melody of the chorus that you want to resonate. Your hook should be memorable and impactful.
- Catchphrases or Keywords
Use a catchy phrase or a memorable keyword that encapsulates the theme of the song. For example, in the song “Royals” by Lorde, the line “We’ll never be royals” is the key hook. It sums up the song’s message about rejecting materialism and embracing authenticity. - Unique Twist
Try to give your hook a unique twist. Make it stand out from other songs in the same genre by using unusual wording, imagery, or a fresh perspective. The more unique and distinct your hook is, the more it will stick with your audience.
Build Contrast with the Verse
A great chorus doesn’t just stand out on its own—it’s often made even more powerful by the contrast with the verse. The verse usually sets up the narrative or tone of the song, while the chorus provides a release or payoff.
- Lyrical and Melodic Contrast
The melody of the chorus should usually differ from the verses to create a sense of elevation or tension. The verses tend to have a more subdued melody, building up to the energy of the chorus. This contrast makes the chorus feel bigger and more dynamic. - Emotional Shift
Consider how the chorus contrasts emotionally with the verse. For instance, a melancholy verse could lead into an upbeat or anthemic chorus that brings hope or empowerment. This emotional shift adds depth to the song and gives the chorus more impact.
Conclusion
A catchy chorus is the key to making a song memorable. Whether it’s the simplicity, the emotional pull, the rhythm, or the unforgettable hook, the most important thing is to create a chorus that resonates with listeners. By focusing on relatable themes, using repetition, crafting a strong hook, and making the melody singable, you can write a chorus that sticks in the minds of your audience. Keep it simple, keep it emotional, and most importantly—make it fun to sing along with. The more infectious the chorus, the more likely it will become a classic.
