Depending on the genre probably, I probably wouldn't say MOST songs have a bridge, there's lots with them and lots without them. The bridge is usually played just once I think, but its up to the writer/performer
I'll usually use a bridge if I'm planning to not have a guitar solo. Or if i'm building up to it. If needed I'll bridge back into the song. (like if I'm going from a slow clean, to Steve Vai like shredding.)
Not exactaly needed, but if used properly it can make any song sound. Epic.
What if i didnt want singing. Singing is NOT an option for me. How do i fill that gap? I was thinging mabey a melody with another instrument besides guitar.
Joined: 23 Jul 2008 United States Lessons: 1 Karma: 10
It varies for me. A lot of times, the bridge is the part of a lot of songs that I hate. On the other hand, there's some songs where the bridge is like my favorite part.
Personally, I feel like the inclussion of a bridge just depends on the song. If you can fit everything you want to say into a song, then there's no need to include a bridge. If you feel like the song needs a bridge, then the song needs a bridge. Also, as a rule, I like to use a bridge as a part of the song to change the direction I'm headed and add kinda a new twist to the lyrics.
Also, very rarely are bridges played more than once. If they are, they often come in a predictable pattern almost like a part of the chorus.
Isn't the bridge nothing but another section of the song. And its my belief that the more sections a song has the more interesting it is. For example this guy I knew wrote a song in which not a single section was repeated.. It was VERY interesting,
Joined: 14 Dec 2009 United States Lessons: 2 Licks: 1 Karma: 16
You don't have to use a bridge, as BBT said a lot of songs do and a lot of songs don't. There are many phenomenal songs that use them and many great songs that don't. Personally, I would say just see if it fits the song. If it doesn't then don't use it. I do like bridges though when used properly, as they can really lead into the next part of the song and can really be used as an emotional building point of the song.