11.1 Song structure in electronic music

Electronic music composition offers diverse structural approaches, from traditional verse-chorus to build-up-drop and progressive structures. Each style serves unique purposes, shaping the song's emotional journey and listener engagement. Understanding these structures empowers producers to craft compelling tracks.

Experimenting with song structures allows for creative fusion and innovation. By combining elements, altering section lengths, or introducing unconventional segments, producers can create unique sonic experiences. The key is balancing familiarity and novelty to maintain listener interest throughout the composition.

Song Structure in Electronic Music

Common electronic music structures

Top images from around the web for Common electronic music structures

• 

  Frontiers | Learning, Probability and Logic: Toward a Unified Approach for Content-Based Music ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Formal Sections in General – OPEN MUSIC THEORY View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Verse-Chorus Form – Open Music Theory View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | Learning, Probability and Logic: Toward a Unified Approach for Content-Based Music ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Formal Sections in General – OPEN MUSIC THEORY View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Common electronic music structures

• 

  Frontiers | Learning, Probability and Logic: Toward a Unified Approach for Content-Based Music ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Formal Sections in General – OPEN MUSIC THEORY View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Verse-Chorus Form – Open Music Theory View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Frontiers | Learning, Probability and Logic: Toward a Unified Approach for Content-Based Music ... View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Formal Sections in General – OPEN MUSIC THEORY View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Verse-chorus structure alternates sections of verse and chorus
  • Verses typically have different lyrics while the chorus remains the same (verse 1, chorus, verse 2, chorus)
  • Often includes a bridge or middle eight section for variation (verse, chorus, bridge, chorus)
• Build-up-drop structure commonly used in dance-oriented electronic music genres (EDM, house)
  • Consists of a gradual build-up of tension followed by a climactic drop
  • The drop often features a change in rhythm, intensity, or the introduction of new elements (bassline, lead synth)
• Progressive structure characterized by a continuous evolution of the music throughout the composition
  • May not have distinct sections like verse or chorus
  • Often features a gradual buildup and release of tension with various elements being introduced and removed over time (trance, progressive house)

Functions of song sections

• Verse introduces the main theme or story of the song
  • Provides a contrast to the chorus both lyrically and musically
  • Helps to build anticipation for the chorus
• Chorus often the most memorable and repetitive part of the song
  • Contains the main hook or message of the song
  • Serves as a focal point and provides a sense of resolution or release
• Bridge or middle eight provides a break from the repetition of verse and chorus
  • Introduces new musical or lyrical elements to maintain interest
  • Helps to build tension or anticipation leading back into the chorus or outro
• Build-up gradually increases tension and energy
  • Introduces new elements, rhythmic changes, or automation of effects
  • Creates anticipation for the upcoming drop
  • Often characterized by a crescendo in volume and intensity
• Drop represents the climax of the song where the built-up tension is released
  • Often features a change in rhythm, intensity, or the introduction of new elements
  • Provides a cathartic moment for the listener and encourages dancing or engagement with the music

Experimentation with song structures

• Combine elements from different song structures
  • Incorporate a build-up-drop section within a verse-chorus structure (pop-EDM crossover)
  • Use a progressive structure with elements of verse-chorus for familiarity
• Alter the length and arrangement of sections
  • Experiment with extended or shortened verses, choruses, or build-ups
  • Play with the order of sections to create unexpected transitions or progressions (chorus first, then verse)
• Introduce unconventional sections or elements
  • Include a breakdown section that significantly reduces the intensity or strips down the instrumentation
  • Use a pre-chorus to build anticipation and transition smoothly into the chorus
  • Incorporate a post-chorus to extend the impact of the chorus and maintain energy

Impact of structure choices

• Consider the genre and intended audience
  • Different genres and target audiences may have different expectations for song structure and arrangement
  • A progressive structure may be more effective for a genre like trance while a verse-chorus structure may be more suitable for pop-oriented electronic music
• Analyze the emotional arc of the composition
  • Evaluate how the arrangement of sections and the transitions between them contribute to the overall emotional impact
  • Consider how the structure supports or detracts from the desired energy level throughout the song
• Assess the balance between repetition and variation
  • Too much repetition can lead to a monotonous composition while too much variation can result in a lack of cohesion
  • Strike a balance between familiarity and novelty to maintain listener engagement
• Gather feedback from listeners
  • Share the composition with a diverse group of listeners and gather their feedback on the effectiveness of the song structure
  • Analyze the feedback to identify areas for improvement and make adjustments accordingly