The more songs you write, the more likely it is that you might discover some nifty little songwriting devices for yourself.
Lately I realised that I have been subconsciously using the Chord I to Chord IV/I(bass) transition quite a bit.
For example, F to Bb/F(bass).
I have encountered this little sequence in a number of existing songs before, and it’s probably because I kinda like the sound to it, that’s why I have been subconsciously using it in the majority of my songs lately as well.
If I were to analyse why I like it, I think it’s because it’s more subtle than the direct Chord I to Chord IV movement.
(I personally feel that the pure I-IV change tends to be a drastic one, and has a deep psychological impact on the listener.)
By retaining the I bass, you keep the harmonic movement subtle but yet there is a sense that something underlying is moving.
There are a number of ways to carry on from the I-IV/I movement.
The ways I have personally used them in three separate songs are as follows:
a) Eb – Ab/Eb – Eb – Ab/Eb…and so on
b) F – Bb/F – Am – Bb – C…and so on
c) F – Bb/F – Gm7 – Bb – C…and so on
It’s a fun little device to use.
I suggest you try it sometime.
