Song structure is a fundamental element of songwriting that helps organize musical ideas into a cohesive piece. Modern listeners typically decide whether to continue listening within the first 30 seconds, making a strong intro crucial for audience retention.

Main Song Sections:

• Verse: Presents the song's story and supports the main idea
• Pre-Chorus/Lift: Builds anticipation for the chorus
• Chorus: Delivers the main message and most memorable melody
• Bridge: Adds a new perspective to the song's theme
• Instrumental Break: Provides musical variety
• Outro: Concludes the song meaningfully

Common Song Structures:

1. Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus (ABAB) Examples: "HUMBLE." by Kendrick Lamar, "We Are The Champions" by Queen

2. Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus (ABABCB) Examples: "Light On" by Maggie Rogers, "Set Fire To the Rain" by Adele

3. Verse – Pre-Chorus – Chorus – Verse – Pre-Chorus – Chorus (ABCABC) Examples: "Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana, "Imagine" by John Lennon

4. Verse – Verse – Bridge – Verse (AABA) Examples: "Peace Like a River" by Paul Simon

Writing Techniques:

• Allegory: Telling stories with deeper meanings
• Alliteration: Using repeated consonant sounds
• Assonance: Using similar vowel sounds
• Hyperbole: Strategic exaggeration
• Metaphors: Indirect comparisons
• Personification: Giving human traits to non-human things
• Similes: Direct comparisons using "like" or "as"
• Storytelling: Focusing on specific moments and sensory details

For beginners, start with the simple ABAB structure (Verse-Chorus-Verse-Chorus) and experiment with different techniques to find what works best for your style.

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