Understanding Song Structure & Arrangements

This article breaks down the basics of what a song consists of and common song structure.

Common Song Structures

Once you have a good understanding of putting together a beat, next you need to understand song structures. Different music genres are laid out differently. Song tempo and length may vary.

Common Sound Sections

• Intro – Usually has fewer elements and builds up to the verse or hook.
• Verse – Usually simpler version of the beat, allowing room for vocals. Usually 16 bars.
• Hook – Usually has the most elements in a song and repeats a chorus. Usually 8 bars.
• Bridge – Usually appears before the last verse. Usually appears in R&B and Pop songs. Usually 8 bars.
• Outro – Usually fades the song out.
• Solo – This is a piece or a section of a piece played or sung by a single performer.

Common Song Structures

Intro – Verse – Hook – Verse – Hook – Verse – Hook – Outro

or

Intro – Hook– Verse – Hook– Verse – Hook – Verse – Hook – Outro

R&B Songs

Intro – Verse – Hook – Verse – Hook – Bridge – Hook – Hook – Outro

Rock Songs

Intro – Verse – Hook – Verse – Hook – Solo – Hook – Hook – Outro

The examples above are just examples. You should study your favorite songs to see how they are structured. You can also search Genius.com for song lyrics, and see the order of song lyrics.

Helpful Links on Song Structure

• The Formula Behind Every Perfect Pop Song – Anthony takes a look at the past few decades of pop music trends in hopes to find a way to write the next big Billboard hit.
• How to Produce Music – Form & Arrangement
• How to Rap: Song Structure ( Understanding Bars )
• Why We Love Repetition
• Beats, Bars, & Phrases ( How to Count Music )

If you have tips on song arrangements, please share in the comments below.

Next Step: Audio Mixing

This article is a part of How to Make Beats series.