Ripov said, "I suppose it's not really part of "chord theory", but as a melody instrument player, I like chords underneath that fit the tune!"

This brings up an important point, which is that chord accompaniments don't always do the same thing--

--some are simply notes that harmonize with the melody
--some provide a rhythmic accompaniment using chords that include the melody notes
--some provide a counterpoint line (often, but not always, in the bass)
--some provide an independent rhythmic pattern that the melody or lead rides on

Each of these sounds different, of course, and often, but not always(again) individual musical genres tend to favor a particular one above the others.