How To Structure An EDM Song

We’re Here To Help All Ardent EDM Lovers Metamorphose Their Dreams Into Reality

EDM Song Elements

Before we begin turning your loop sample packs into a full-fledged, unforgettable track, it is crucial first to discuss and analyze the parts of a song. In recent years, electronic dance music has garnered immense popularity among the masses and established its position in the music industry. For those of you who ardently enjoy listening to EDM, you might’ve noticed that its structure traditionally varies from that of the globally recognized pop songs we’ve all grown up listening to.

However, the dance music trend has spread like wildfire in recent years, penetrating even mainstream pop music — for a good reason! Breaking the norms of the verse-chorus structure we are all deeply familiar with, EDM excitingly switches things up and changes the game by using the following structure: Intro, Breakdown, Build-Up, and Drop.

Intro

Beginning with the intro, an EDM track sets the tone with a stripped-down beat.

Breakdown

Following the intro is the breakdown — the introduction of the drums for some thrill and excitement.

Build-up

The next element, build-up, vigorously boosts the energy and leads to the final component.

Drop 

The drop is arguably the most impactful, fundamental climax — the leading hook and ultimate dealbreaker. By familiarizing yourself with this standard song structure, you can create a wonderful song of your own.

Common Song Structures

Now that we have discussed the critical constituents of an audio track in detail, we can begin to go over song structures. Essentially, the core of EDM music is relentlessly energetic — and it is this sheer exhilaration you must incorporate while arranging your song for exceptional results! Some common structures — all of which use alphabets to represent different sections are as follows.

ABABCB

Frequently used in pop music begins with A — the repeated section used for the verses. It is then followed by B — the chorus. Lastly, it contains a third section known as the bridge.

ABAB

Commonly used in EDM, this basic song structure begins with A — an amalgamation of the intro, the breakdown, and the build-up. The track then integrates the most significant element of all: the drop.

ABCB

Slightly similar to ABAB, this song format begins to resemble the previous structure but differs in the third section. In this format, the C is either the extension of a breakdown or a novel section altogether, thus adding variety, unpredictability, and freshness to your track.

If you are new to music-making, we recommend one of these foolproof, widely recognized structures as your starting point. However, you are encouraged to embrace your creativity as well! Feel free to go beyond the horizons of tried-and-tested methods and experiment with unconventionality. In all honesty, the possibilities are endless!

The Relationship Between Song Structures and Genres

Now that we’ve successfully discussed various song structures, it is also essential to consider that they vary from genre to genre in length and repetition. For instance, the drop starts at the 55-second mark in trap and dubstep, leaving room for a 16-bar intro, an 8-bar breakdown, and an 8-bar build-up. Regarding song elements, build-ups are longer in-house and techno than dubstep. Timing, too, differs from genre to genre; for example, whereas progressive songs range from 8-10 minutes, future trap and bass tracks are typically 4 minutes long.

Turn Your Loop Into A Wonderful Song!

Now that we’ve gone over song structures in-depth, it’s time to take your loop and work toward creating a song that nobody will forget! Firstly, it is vital to consider the placement of your loop before beginning to assemble the complete structure. You should listen to some of your favorite EDM songs to gain inspiration and a deeper understanding. Establishing a framework paved the way for immense success! We urge you to think this through and select the structure that best enhances the tremendous potential of your loop.

A couple of scenarios about loop placement are as follows.

Begin With The Drop

Say you’re beginning with a dance-worthy 8-bar loop; it is then evident that you’re starting your song with the unmistakable element of the hook! You can proceed by splitting your drop loop into disparate sections or creating a second drop that slightly varies from the first, thus preventing repetition and ensuring instant captivation.

Following the insertion of the drop, you can then simplify the drums and successfully present the intro before incorporating an 8-bar breakdown. The key is to emphasize the drop and leave a lasting impression on the listener. Ensure consistency and smoothness in your track for the most impactful results!

Begin With The Intro

If your loop possesses simplicity and a stripped-down beat, you’re inherently starting with an intro! However, it will be suitable for the breakdown if it contains more melody. Because the opening sets the overall tone and creates an atmosphere, you must envision a drop that complements it. It would help to consider kicking things off with a drum loop and gradually incorporating new sounds to build momentum. After completing the build-up, you can decide on the direction you wish to take and maximize the potential of your intro-oriented loop.

Gain Inspiration By Reverse Engineering Your Favorite Tracks!

If you still struggle with your song’s structure, you can receive brilliant ideas and gain immense inspiration from reverse engineering songs you’ve loved and cherished. After listening to these arrangements with the utmost concentration and noting vital information about their structure, you can use these formulas to start your project’s production!

Consider inserting one of these tracks into a digital audio workstation (DAW) for further scrutinization and use the software to identify constituents like each section’s tempo and inception. Such a map will provide you with countless beneficial tips and allow you to create remarkable loops and thoughtfully structured songs.

Use Your Newfound Understanding Of Song Structures To Complete Your Unfinished Projects

Now that we’ve thoroughly discussed the innermost workings of EDM songs, you are ready to turn your loops into complete tracks and chase your dreams with unparalleled enthusiasm, rigor, and ambition. Use these tips to embark on the journey of a lifetime and exhibit the sort of influential creativity that makes millions of heads turn! We hope this guide has assisted you in the music-making process, and we wish to see you succeed in your endeavors.