English For Music Students

(Marvins-Underground-K-12) #1

listener's attention. The chorus is what makes the listener want to listen to
the song over and over.


Bridge
In songwriting, a bridge is an interlude that connects two parts of a song,
and which creates a harmonic connection between those parts. The bridge
usually differs from the verse and the chorus in its harmonic structure
(chord progression) and lyrics. Unlike a verse or chorus section, a bridge
does not always contain lyrics. A bridge may be performed solely by the
rhythm section, or by the rhythm section and melody instruments.
The bridge generally delays an expected chorus. Since the listener is
expecting the chorus, when the bridge is performed, the listener is
pleasantly surprised by their expectations not being met. The chorus after
the bridge is usually the last and is often repeated in order to stress that it is
final. When a verse or a chorus is expected and something that is musically
and lyrically different from both verse and chorus is instead in its place, it
is most likely the bridge.


Middle Eight
In music theory, middle eight refers to the section of a song which has a
significantly different melody from the rest of the song, usually after the
second chorus in a song. Such sections often consist of new chords, but
also frequently just alternate between two chords. It is called a middle
eight because it happens in the middle of the song and the length is
generally eight bars.
Middle eights are often quieter than the main song, which contrasts
with solos, which are generally more energetic. In slower songs, however,
a middle eight can be used to generate energy. By adding a powerful
upbeat middle eight, musicians can add a great hook for an end chorus and
finale.


Coda
Coda is an Italian word for ‘tail’; it is the additional lines of a song which
brings it to an end. The coda (also called ‘outro’) is an optional addition to
a song.

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