Also called the build, setup, or pre-hook.
As the name suggests, a pre-chorus is a short section that comes just before the chorus of a song. Its usual purpose is to build anticipation for the imminent chorus.
A pre-chorus:
- Has a distinct melody that is not repeated in the verse or the chorus. This distinct melody remains consistent each time the pre-chorus recurs.
- Adds interest to the transition into a chorus, often by building up tension in a way that the chorus will release.
- A pre-chorus is short, sometimes just two or four measures long.
- Adds musical contrast to a song that uses very similar verse and chorus melodies.
- Lyrically, this section often reflects a change of attitude or perspective; its lines prime us for the ideas and images of the chorus.
