What are the best ways to write hooks and choruses that grab the listener's attention?

1 Use repetition and rhyme

One of the simplest and most effective ways to write hooks and choruses is to use repetition and rhyme. Repetition helps the listener remember the words and the melody, while rhyme adds rhythm and flow to the lyrics. You can repeat words, phrases, or whole lines, as long as they are relevant and meaningful. You can also use rhyme schemes, such as AABB, ABAB, or ABBA, to create patterns and connections between the words. For example, think of how the chorus of "Hey Jude" by The Beatles repeats the title and rhymes it with "made", "afraid", and "played".

2 Vary the melody and harmony

Another way to write hooks and choruses is to vary the melody and harmony of the song. The melody is the main tune that the listener follows, while the harmony is the combination of notes that support the melody. You can vary the melody and harmony by changing the pitch, rhythm, or tone of the notes, or by using different chords, scales, or modes. For example, think of how the chorus of "I Want It That Way" by Backstreet Boys changes the melody and harmony from the verse by going higher, faster, and brighter.

3 Use contrast and dynamics

A third way to write hooks and choruses is to use contrast and dynamics. Contrast is the difference between two or more elements of the song, such as loud and soft, fast and slow, high and low, or major and minor. Dynamics are the changes in volume and intensity of the sound. You can use contrast and dynamics to create tension and release, excitement and calm, or surprise and familiarity. For example, think of how the chorus of "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana uses contrast and dynamics by switching from quiet and muted to loud and distorted.

4 Use hooks within hooks

A fourth way to write hooks and choruses is to use hooks within hooks. Hooks within hooks are smaller catchy elements that are embedded within the larger hook or chorus. They can be words, sounds, or effects that stand out and make the listener pay attention. They can also be used to create anticipation, resolution, or variation. For example, think of how the chorus of "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga uses hooks within hooks, such as the "ra-ra-ah-ah-ah" vocalization, the "caught in a bad romance" phrase, or the "oh-oh-oh-oh-oh" outro.

5 Collaborate and co-write

A fifth way to write hooks and choruses is to collaborate and co-write with other musicians, songwriters, or producers. Collaborating and co-writing can help you get new ideas, perspectives, and feedback that can improve your hooks and choruses. You can also learn from each other's skills, styles, and experiences, and combine them to create something unique and original. For example, think of how the chorus of "Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars was co-written by six different people, including Jeff Bhasker, Philip Lawrence, and Trinidad James.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?