Use these repeated hook sections to make a statement that sums up the heart of your song. I’ve noticed that some very successful rap songs open with the hook – the catchiest part of the song – to grab the listener’s attention right at the start.
Sometimes the third verse is replaced with a bridge, a section with different chords or a change up in the rap style or content. The hook/chorus provides an anchor for the listener while the verses tell the story, paint a picture, or express the personality of the rapper. Often there are three verse sections with each one followed by a chorus or hook section. Hip-Hop relies on a 16-bar verse form followed by a chorus/hook section. Because this is a little outside of my usual style, I asked a couple of successful Rap producers and label owners to help me out.
I’ve been asked by a few songwriters for advice on how to create good Hip-Hop and Rap songs.
