Is a melody in the chorus that's different from the verses a phrase or a motif? Also, is riff a motif or phrase?
Melody in the chorus
That's a phrase, not a motif.
The chorus melody is usually a complete musical idea. It forms a full thought with multiple notes and rhythms. This makes it a phrase. A motif would be just a tiny piece of that melody.
For example, if your chorus is "We will, we will rock you," the whole thing is a phrase. But "we will" could be a motif if you repeat just those two words throughout the song.
Phrases are complete statements. Motifs are small building blocks. The chorus melody spans several measures and creates a finished idea, so it's definitely a phrase.
Think of it this way: motifs are like words, and phrases are like sentences. Your chorus melody is telling a complete musical sentence, not just dropping a single word.
Is riff a motif or phrase?
A riff is usually a motif.
Riffs are short, catchy patterns that repeat throughout a song. Think of the guitar riff in "Smoke on the Water" or "Seven Nation Army." These are just a few notes that you recognize instantly, and that show up over and over.
That's exactly what makes something a motif. It's a small, memorable musical idea.
However, some longer riffs can act like phrases if they're complex enough to form a complete musical thought. But most classic riffs you know are definitely motifs. They're the short, punchy hooks that stick in your head.
So when you hear that iconic guitar lick repeating, you're hearing a motif, not a phrase.
