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Rock
,→Song Structure
== Song Structure ==
Rock songs are typically quite simple, some containing no more than two sections of verse and chorus. Some even use the same harmonic progression for the chorus as the verse. Most do not use modulation, keeping the song in the same tonality, although it might not fit perfectly neatly into a major or minor key. Sometimes, a brief pre-chorus section is used between verse and chorus to create tension or build-up that the chorus will relieve.
The verse is typically more calm than the chorus section, used to establish the tonality, a lyrical theme, and a general mood. It usually does not create musical tension in the harmonic sense but may present a lyrical idea that requires elaboration or resolution. Harmonically, the verse may do nothing or very little. Basically, it is the "calm before the storm" that is the chorus. That doesn't mean it needs to be purposefully boring, only that it doesn't give the listener a sense of completeness.
The chorus is generally shorter than the verse, consisting of a single progression. If the progression repeats it is often only to use a different ending with a stronger resolution. The chorus usually employs larger sonic textures than the verse - "bigger" chords covering more octaves, louder and more resonant cymbals, and background vocals to name a few.
Where modulation occurs in rock music is often to the IV or iv key on a repeat of the chorus. This increases the impact of the chorus without changing its content. In some cases, the verse and chorus will be written in different (but highly-related) keys.
A non-repeating bridge section often occurs between a repetition of the chorus and the final repetition of verse-chorus or the chorus. These are designed to create contrast with the rest of the song but can take a variety of forms. Sometimes it continues the intensity of the chorus but uses a different harmonic theme that builds tension which is released by the ensuing chorus. Sometimes it is completely slow and boring, a kind of super-verse to serve as calm before the intensity of the chorus. Sometimes it is its own complete, yet somewhat brief, musical statement, serving as the climax of the song.
Guitar solos are usually performed during the bridge. Other common placements are over instrumental repetitions of the chorus (or verse (and prechorus) and chorus).
Some songs have intro's or outro's played at the beginning or ending of the song but nowhere else.
== Blues Influence ==
== Four Chord Songs: I - V - vi - IV ==