versechorus

Verse-chorus form, also called verse-chorus structure, is a common musical form in popular music in which the song alternates between verses and a recurring chorus. The verses usually carry different lyrics and advance the narrative or mood, while the chorus repeats a central hook with the same or nearly the same lyrics and melody each time.

Typical arrangement is Verse 1, Chorus, Verse 2, Chorus, Verse 3, Chorus, with optional pre-chorus or post-chorus sections. The pre-chorus builds tension leading into the chorus, while the post-chorus returns to a melodic hook after the chorus. The chorus is often more concise and energetic, designed to be memorable and to summarize the song's main idea.

In analysis, verse-chorus form is contrasted with through-composed form, which avoids repeated sections. The form relies on repetition of the chorus for coherence and a return to a familiar musical idea, while the verses supply variation in melody, harmony, and storytelling.

Historically, the structure became common in early 20th-century popular music and remains dominant in many genres, including rock, pop, country, and R&B. Variations exist, such as songs that insert a bridge or replace verses with a different arrangement, but the core pattern helps listeners anticipate and engage with the song.