Benson Boone's "Beautiful Things," which entered the Hot 100 top 10 in Q1 2024, features two vocal break post-choruses after the first and second choruses. While these sections serve to heighten the song's catchiness - a primary function of a post-chorus - they also elevate its sonic and emotional impact while showcasing Boone’s vocal prowess.
Below is an image illustrating the song's post choruses and associated characteristics.
Vocal Break Post-Chorus 1
The first post-chorus comprises two distinct two-bar segments. Segment 1 seamlessly transitions from the chorus, sustaining a high-energy rock accompaniment that supports Boone’s impassioned, high register, layered, nonsensical vocals. Although this approach deviates from the Hit Songs Deconstructed K.I.S.S. ME principle (keep it simple, singable, and memorable), it drives the song to an emotional and sonic peak, capturing what Boone can no longer articulate in words after his chorus plea: “Please stay, I want you, I need you, oh God / Don’t take these beautiful things that I’ve got.” This emotive use of nonsensical lyrics is common in hit songs, and it allows Boone to display his vocal chops without seeming pretentious, aligning naturally with the song’s emotional narrative.
Subscribers can discover what else the post-choruses in “Beautiful Things” achieve, along with key takeaways, by clicking here.
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