A verse is a repeated section of a song that typically features a new set of lyrics on each repetition. Compared to a chorus section, verses tend to vary more throughout the course of a song. And while choruses typically contain a song’s signature musical motif, the music of a verse is often written to complement the chorus music. To analyze a verse in terms of traditional songwriting technique, consider a song with an AABA form or an ABABCB form. In these types of songs, the A section is called the verse. A song verse tends to have the following qualities: Engaging. In AABA or ABABCB form, the first verse is the first full section that the listener hears. Therefore it needs to engage them and hook them in. Something dull or clichéd could quickly have them changing the station or clicking “skip.” Lyrical. The verse is the part of the song where lyrics tend to vary every time—as opposed to the chorus which, in some songs, repeats the same set of lyrics whenever it’s played. So if your song is telling a story, or if you have a piece of poetry or imagery to convey, the verse can be the best place to share those ideas. Unique. Verses don’t need to be a fountain of hooks and earworms. Typically, that’s the job of the chorus. So if you have a particularly catchy musical phrase you’re looking to build your song around, consider utilizing it in the chorus and use the verse section to build to that point.