Songwriters often do well until they have to write a bridge. Most do not know how to write a bridge because it often breaks up the current groove and pattern they are stuck in. This article should help you get beyond that.

Determining the chords for a bridge in a musical composition involves a combination of theoretical knowledge, ear training, and creative intuition. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose chords for a bridge:

1. Tension and Release:
   • The bridge often serves as a departure from the established chord progressions in the verse and chorus. Introduce new chords that create tension and a sense of departure.
   • Build tension through dissonant chords or by using chords from outside the key.
2. Contrast:
   • Provide a contrast to the chords used in the verse and chorus. This can involve changing the chord quality, using different inversions, or introducing chords from a different key.
3. Modal Interchange:
   • Experiment with borrowing chords from parallel keys or modes. This technique, known as modal interchange, can add color and unexpected harmonic elements to your bridge.
4. Relative Major/Minor:
   • Consider switching between the relative major and minor keys. This can create a distinct mood shift and add variety to your composition.
5. Sequencing:
   • Create a chord sequence that ascends or descends in pitch. Sequences can add a sense of motion and development to the bridge.
6. Chromatic Movement:
   • Introduce chromatic chords or movement. This involves using notes that are not part of the key, adding an element of surprise and tension.
7. Secondary Dominants:
   • Incorporate secondary dominant chords to add interest. These are chords that temporarily tonicize a non-tonic degree within the key.
8. Modulations:
   • Explore modulations to different keys. A brief modulation in the bridge can bring freshness to the composition.
9. Melodic Considerations:
   • Pay attention to the melody in the bridge. The chords should complement and support the melodic line, emphasizing important moments.
10. Experiment and Trust Your Ear:
    • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different chord progressions. Trust your ear and intuition as a composer. Sometimes the best choices come from trying out unexpected combinations.

Remember that these are guidelines, and breaking them can lead to interesting and unique results. The key is to balance tension and release, create contrast, and contribute to the overall emotional arc of the song. As you gain experience, you’ll develop a better sense of what works well in different musical contexts.

Examples

1. Tension-building Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: Am – Em – F – G
   • Bridge: C – Dm – E7 – Am
   • Explanation: The bridge introduces a sense of tension by using chords from outside the key (C and E7), creating a departure from the established A minor key.
2. Modal Interchange Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: C – G – Am – F
   • Bridge: C – Eb – Fm – Ab
   • Explanation: The bridge borrows chords from the parallel minor key (Cm, Fm), adding a touch of melancholy and modal interchange.
3. Relative Major/Minor Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: D – A – Bm – G
   • Bridge: Bm – G – D – Bm
   • Explanation: The bridge switches between B minor and D major, exploiting the relative major/minor relationship, creating a subtle contrast.
4. Chromatic Movement Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: G – Em – Am – D
   • Bridge: G – G#dim – Am – D
   • Explanation: The bridge features chromatic movement by introducing the G#dim chord, adding tension before resolving back to Am and D.
5. Secondary Dominant Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: C – Am – Dm – G
   • Bridge: C – E7 – Am – Dm
   • Explanation: The bridge uses an E7 chord (the secondary dominant of Am) to heighten tension before resolving to the expected chords.
6. Modulation Bridge:
   • Chord Progression: F – Bb – Gm – C
   • Bridge: Dm – G – Em – A
   • Explanation: The bridge modulates to the key of D minor, providing a fresh harmonic palette and a different emotional feel.

Remember that the effectiveness of a bridge depends on various factors, including the overall context of the song, the melody, and the desired emotional impact. Feel free to experiment with these examples and adapt them to suit your musical style and preferences.