The bridge problem

Bridges are the part of a song where I most often get in my own way. The verses tell you where you are. The choruses tell you what you feel. The bridge has the harder job. It has to take you somewhere you did not know was possible, and then back to a chorus you have already heard, and make that chorus mean something new.

When a bridge does not work, it is usually because I tried to be impressive. I changed key for the sake of it. I added a phrase that sounded important and meant nothing.

The bridges I am proud of are the ones that simply ask a question the chorus then has to answer. They do not show off. They open a door, hold it for the listener, and step aside.