The Complete Guide on What Is a Refrain In Music

This guide encompasses all information about refrains used in music. We define a refrain in the musical context and details its origin and existence in the musical scene. Furthermore, we detail why refrains are used in music and their key characteristics. We provide a glimpse of how to incorporate a refrain in music and elaborate how it works in popular music. We distinguish the difference between refrain and chorus for a better understanding of the refrain and present examples of refrain in music to illustrate its usage.

What is a refrain in music?

A refrain in music is a section of a song that recurs multiple times. It’s a part of the song that’s repeated with the same melody, lyrics, phrases or all three. Refrains often contain the central theme or message of the song, making them memorable and easier for listeners to connect with. They can be catchy and serve as a structural anchor within the composition, contributing to the overall cohesion and impact of the music.

History of refrains in music

The use of refrains in music dates back centuries and can be found in ancient cultures such as Greek poetry as well as medieval European music. In these compositions, refrains were repeated sections or phrases that provided structure and helped to reinforce the primary theme of a composition. Over time, refrains evolved and became a common element in various musical forms, including folk songs, hymns, and eventually in contemporary popular music.

Why are refrains used in music?

Refrains play a crucial role in music by providing a recurring point of reference within a song. They serve as musical landmarks, guiding listeners through the piece and providing a recognizable, memorable section that often contains the core message or emotion of the song. This repetition helps to solidify the song’s structure, making it more accessible and engaging for the audience. Refrains create a sense of unity, tying various sections of the music, and their repetitive nature often makes them the most memorable parts of a song, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.

Moreover, refrains often encapsulate the essence of the song, containing the primary message or emotional core. By repeating this central theme, refrains emphasize and reinforce the song’s purpose, making it easier for the audience to connect with and remember.

Characteristics of refrains

Lines

Refrains consist of lines or phrases within a song that are repeated at specific intervals. These lines often contain the central theme, the catchiest melody, or the most memorable lyrics in the composition. The repetition of these lines throughout the song creates familiarity and serves as an anchor, rendering it easier for listeners to connect with and remember the song.

Intervals

Refrains appear at regular intervals within a song’s structure. They typically follow each verse or bridge and recur consistently throughout the piece. These intervals establish a predictable pattern that enhances the song’s structure, allowing listeners to anticipate and engage with the repeated refrain each time it appears.

Repetition of lyrics or melody

A characteristic of a refrain is the repetition of specific lyrics, melodies, or both. This repetition occurs at regular intervals within the song, providing a familiar and recurring section that listeners can easily recognize. The consistent repetition of these elements reinforces the central theme or message of the song.

Catchy and memorable

Refrains are often designed to be catchy and memorable. They contain a distinctive melody, rhythm, or lyrics that stand out within the song. Because they are catchy, it makes them easily memorable for listeners, encouraging sing-alongs and leaving a lasting impression after the song has ended.

Often the title of the song

In many cases, the refrain contains the title of the song. This makes the title a central and repeated element within this composition, reinforcing its significance and making it more prominent in the listener’s mind. It ties the main theme of the song directly to its title, reinforcing the song’s identity.

How to write refrain in music

Start with a strong hook

Begin the refrain with a powerful and captivating musical phrase or lyric that grabs the listener’s attention. This initial “hook” sets the tone for the entire refrain and makes it memorable.

Keep it simple and easy to remember

Refrains should be straightforward and uncomplicated. Use simple and easily understandable lyrics or melodies to ensure that listeners can quickly grasp and remember them.

Lyrics

Craft lyrics that encapsulate the message or theme of the song. The words used in the refrain should be concise, impactful, and reflective of the song’s overall narrative or emotion.

Melody

Create a catchy and distinctive melody for the refrain. A strong and memorable tune will make the refrain stand out and linger in the listener’s mind.

Use repetition effectively

Repetition is key in a refrain. Repeat the chosen lyrics and melody at regular intervals throughout the song to reinforce the refrain’s importance, making it more recognizable and easier for listeners to connect with.

How does the refrain work in popular music?

In popular music, the refrain serves as the fundamental component, often taking the form of a catchy chorus that repeats multiple times throughout the song. This chorus typically contains the song’s title or a central message, making it memorable and easy for listeners to sing along. The refrain in popular music functions as a focal point, emphasizing the main theme or emotion of the song. A refrain often follows verses, which advances the narrative or story, providing a contrast and highlighting the central message when it returns. This repetition solidifies the song’s structure and creates a sense of familiarity, contributing to its commercial success by making it more accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

Examples of refrains in popular music

“Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey

The refrain in this song is the iconic line “Don’t stop believin.” It serves as the catchy and powerful chorus that repeats throughout the song. The simple yet uplifting message of perseverance and hope is reinforced by the repetition of this memorable phrase, making it a standout element of the song.

“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston

In this song, the refrain includes the poignant line “And I will always love you.” This refrain, repeated multiple times, encapsulates the emotional core of the song. Whitney Houston’s powerful delivery of these lyrics in the chorus makes it one of the most memorable parts of the song, conveying deep emotion and leaving a lasting impact on listeners.

“Hey Jude” by The Beatles

The refrain in “Hey Jude” includes the repeated lines “Hey Jude, don’t make it bad. Take a sad song and make it better.” This refrain is not only catchy but also serves as a comforting and supportive message throughout the song. The repetition of these lines reinforces the song’s empathetic and encouraging tone, making it a memorable and singable part of the track.

Difference between refrain and chorus

The distinction between a refrain and a chorus lies in their roles within a song. A refrain refers to a repeated line or phrase that recurs at intervals, often following verses, and it can be catchy and recurring. On the other hand, a chorus is a specific segment that repeats after each verse and typically embodies the song’s main message, featuring more consistency in its melody, lyrics, and thematic significance. The chorus tends to be the emotional and lyrical climax of the song, carrying more weight in terms of memorability and impact, while the refrain might offer varied content and may or may not align directly with the song’s primary theme or title.