Hook The hook is a repeated phrase that stands out and catches your audience’s ear. It is usually short and memorable, and should capture the general feeling of the rap. In this example, the hook occurs once before the first verse and at the beginning of every chorus. I’m me, I’m free, I ain’t never going back. First Verse Each verse should tell a story or describe an experience. In the introductory verse, tell your audience about your unique way of life. Consider including pop culture references that your listeners will appreciate. This verse makes use of a back-to-back rhyme scheme: the last words of bars two and four, and bars six and eight, rhyme with each other. Picture this, no fiction, No Harry Potter, no Hunger Games. My life is real, my diction heals ‘Cause I deserve this fame. Who am I? Don’t even ask me ‘Cause it’s clear that you fear me. Now I’m flying high, fly or die Leave all the past behind me. Chorus The lyrics of your chorus should refer to the main theme of your rap. In this case, the artist is expressing his or her desire to pursue a life of fame over the objections of a friend or significant other. I’m me, I’m free, I ain’t never going back So keep on telling your lies I see the truth in your eyes. Second Verse Your second verse could focus more on a specific feeling or situation. Think about changing up your rhyme scheme—instead of a back-to-back pattern, experiment with internal rhymes. Yeah, I admit I miss you Missed you at my show, my flow Goes on but you don’t know that. Too busy with the nine to five. You said you want stability, But baby, all that I can see is Diamonds in the sky, Lucy Coming down to greet me. Chorus Third Verse You may also want to change up the rhythmic structure of your lyrics. While the first two verses have roughly the same number of syllables per line, this one makes use of shorter, choppier bars that give the verse an energetic and insistent feel. It’s time to change it up, admit it Sit on it, think about it Maybe quit it, recommit And now I’m sitting in first class. I’m on my throne, want me in Paris? Sure, I’ll go And you’re alone, I only wish It didn’t have to be like that. Bridge The bridge occurs only once in your song, usually near the end, and allows you to interject a new idea or elaborate upon previous verses. In this case, the last line of the bridge leads right into the final chorus. And I’m going higher and higher And you can’t bring me down I hit the stratosphere But I ain’t feeling no fear, ‘cause... Chorus