Song is any musical composition with lyrics, performed or played at distinct and fixed pitches (melodies). It may be accompanied by an instrument or simply sung. A song is a combination of melody and words and, like other types of music, can be protected by copyright.
Songs are often a form of communication for the purpose of conveying emotions, ideas or stories in ways that written texts can’t. They can be shared in many contexts including community gatherings, performances and recording sessions. They can be a way of affirming and supporting each other in a group. They can also be a means of recording and preserving cultural heritage.
While strong opinions exist about whether today’s hits have lost their luster or not, a new study suggests that at least one aspect of popular song structure has changed over time: Choruses are getting longer and taking up more of the total track length. A team of researchers at MIT and Arizona State University has analyzed data about thousands of popular songs from the Genius platform and detected this trend.
Whether a chorus, bridge, or any other part of a song, each is meant to compliment the lyrical content, adding texture and emotion. It’s important for lyricists to learn how to write lyrics that work with melodic rhythms and cadences, and it’s equally important for composers to understand how their music can support or amplify the emotional intent of a lyrical phrase. It’s the job of every musician to make their music tell a meaningful story, regardless of the genre.