Middle Eight

[LordyGeordie]

Why is a middle eight called a middle eight? I know pretty much what one is, it's the 'verse' which is not quite the same as the rest of the song. but normally it's towards the end of the song and why 'eight'?

Also are there any rules which govern the composition of a middle eight?

[arthurstace]

"A middle eight is a technical term referring to a standard song format used in many pop songs.

In this format the song consists of four eight-bar sections - two verses, the middle eight, then the final verse.

The middle eight will be different to the other verses, to prevent monotony, creating a greater impact for the final chorus.

Middle eights are common in songs with a strophic structure."

 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_eight

[Octavius]

The middle eight is so called because it's often eight bars long and occurs in the middle of the song. It's there to provide a contrast with the rest of the music.

 

In a conventional song, the constant repetition of the verse/chorus/verse/chorus structure tends to become tedious after a while, and when the middle eight occurs, it can provide a welcome contrast.

A classic example is The Beatles "I Want To Hold Your Hand". The middle eight is the bit where they sing "and when I'm with you I feel happy inside..." The rhythm changes to a more laidback beat, a minor chord is introduced, and, most importantly, the melody is different to that of either the verse or the chorus.

[Octavius]

The middle eight is usually sandwiched between two choruses.

Whether it's actually 8 bars long or whether it's 4, 12 or 16 doesn't really matter. As with the verse, bridge and chorus, it's a question of whether it feels right or not.

However, 4 bars would probably be too short and 16 bars possibly too long. The aim is to take a break from the verse / bridge / chorus repetition, but not so long a break that it becomes an entirely new son