Writing Arranging tip #

[PStl]

So we were learning the chorus of a song we do, and we find they use an alternate chord in the final chorus.
Then a few days later, I hear the same thing in the Beyonce "Put a ring on it" song. It's my favorite part of the song, the alternate chord changes, in the chorus.
So, if you can't decide on which version of the song you're writing, or the band is split on it, use both!

Any other examples?

[bassist_25]

One thing I really like that's simple yet effective is a song that uses a typical I - IV - V progression...or at least a song that has a chorus that ends on the V. On the final chorus, instead of going directly back to the tonic after the V, hold the melody out and play the IV after the V. I can't think of any particuarly examples of songs that use that, but it's very effective in country, Southern gospel, and older pop songs.

[DogAlpha]

When I am writing something the structure of the pre chorus is where I usually add a different unusual chord.

It adds interest to the chorus without changing it and is sort of a different way to build up to the usual.