The Best Songs to Learn English

Listening to music can serve as a highly effective method for language acquisition. Studies suggest that music aids in memory retention, enhances pronunciation, and contributes to vocabulary expansion.

With this in mind, we’ve compiled an article showcasing top English songs tailored to enrich your vocabulary, reinforce grammar principles, and captivate your interest. We’ve also curated a selection of songs suitable for various proficiency levels and age groups. Feel free to incorporate these tunes into your Spotify playlist or even create a mixtape (if that’s still a thing). Regardless of your chosen format, frequent listening to these songs will undoubtedly bolster your English listening skills and vocabulary.

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English learning songs for intermediate learners

For those seeking songs that align more with radio playlists or appeal to more proficient English students, the following compilation comprises excellent pop songs designed for English language acquisition, featuring straightforward and comprehensible lyrics. These songs are ideally suited for individuals at the B1-B2 language proficiency levels.

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A globally popular song that has secured multiple number one positions, Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” is also well-suited for intermediate English learners due to its straightforward lyrics and a positive message that makes it enjoyable to replay.

Do You Love Me by The Contours

“Do You Love Me” by the Contours is a timeless classic, featuring the iconic Motown rhythm that will get you in the dancing mood. Its uncomplicated lyrics are perfect for students, offering an enjoyable sing-along experience. The song comprises 77 distinct words.

Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles

“Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles has endured since its 1969 release for a good reason. Its simplicity and beauty have the power to connect directly with one’s emotions, and its heartwarming message resonates universally. Additionally, it’s an excellent choice for intermediate ESL students, as it contains only 36 distinct words.

One Time by Justin Bieber

Despite containing a relatively large vocabulary of 97 distinct words, “One Time” by Justin Bieber remains relatively straightforward, using everyday language that intermediate English speakers can grasp. Furthermore, it presents opportunities to learn common idiomatic expressions, like “butterflies in my stomach.”

I’m a Believer by The Monkees

Because of its somewhat dated lyrics, such as “I thought love was more or less a givin’ thing,” this song is slightly more intricate compared to others in the intermediate category. However, “I’m a Believer” is a timeless melody that’s bound to be memorable, so if you listen to it while reading the lyrics, you’ll likely remember the new vocabulary easily.

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Just the Way You Are by Bruno Mars

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“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars, another romantic love song, is an ideal choice for both intermediate ESL learners and individuals aiming to learn how to express affection in English when pursuing a potential romantic interest. The chorus maintains a pleasant, unhurried pace, making it accessible for students who are relatively new to the English language.

Friday I’m In Love by The Cure

The inclusion of “Friday I’m In Love” by The Cure serves a primary purpose: it’s an excellent song for mastering the days of the week. It systematically mentions each day from Monday to Sunday, aiding English language learners in remembering the sequence of the weekdays.

Let It Be by The Beatles

“Let It Be” is another song that stands out as a valuable choice for English language learners. With a vocabulary of 62 distinct words, it provides an excellent opportunity for intermediate students to expand their language skills and vocabulary.

Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol

Although it may not be the simplest song in this selection, “Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol, with its 92 unique words, remains a valuable resource for intermediate English learners. The primary advantage is its slow tempo, which allows listeners to clearly discern the singer’s words. This, in turn, facilitates easy memorization of the lyrics and contributes to vocabulary enrichment.

Songs to Learn English for Advanced Level

Here are some songs tailored for advanced English learners, specifically those at the C1 and C2 levels. These songs feature a higher degree of slang and diverse vocabulary compared to the earlier ones, and some can even serve as tools for grasping English grammar concepts.

Someone Like You by Adele

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“Someone Like You” by Adele is an excellent choice for advanced ESL students. It presents a rich array of captivating vocabulary and idiomatic expressions like “out of the blue” and “time of our lives,” which may introduce even advanced English learners to new language elements. Additionally, it features intriguing words and phrases such as “bittersweet” and “glory days.”

If I Were a Boy by Beyonce

The following song we suggest for advanced English learners is “If I Were a Boy.” This song delves into the complex subjunctive tense, which is used to convey desires or imaginings that are not real. As Beyonce explores her thoughts on what she would do if she were a boy, ESL students can gain valuable insights into expressing their own wishes and desires.

If I were a boy, even just for a day, I’d roll outta bed in the mornin’, a__nd throw on what I wanted, then go. If I were a boy, I think I could understand, how it feels to love a girl, I swear I’d be a better man

Shake It Off by Taylor Swift

Although “Shake It Off” may seem uncomplicated at first glance, we would suggest it more for advanced English-language learners rather than intermediate ones because it incorporates a considerable amount of slang. Covering concepts like haters, players, and fakers, employing idiomatic expressions such as “lightning on my feet,” and promoting the idea of “shaking it off,” this song offers ESL students an excellent opportunity to acquaint themselves with everyday vocabulary.

Lego House by Ed Sheeran

Aside from its inherent beauty, “Lego House” by Ed Sheeran is brimming with distinctive vocabulary and expressions. Numerous of these phrases are prevalent in the English language, making them highly beneficial for ESL learners. For instance:

I’m out of sight. I’m out of mind, I’ll do it all for you in time. And out of all these things I’ve done, I think I love you better now

I’m gonna paint you by numbers and color you in, i__f things go right we can frame it, a__nd put you on a wall

All My Loving by The Beatles

“The Beatles’ song “All My Loving” serves as an excellent tool for enhancing vocabulary and grammar skills. With just 39 distinct words in its lyrics, it also provides ample practice in constructing future tense verb forms, aiding learners in mastering verb tenses. Moreover, its romantic theme makes it a wonderful choice for ESL students looking to delight their loved ones with a serenade in the language they’re studying.”

Close your eyes and I’ll kiss you, t__omorrow I’ll miss you, r__emember I’ll always be true. And then while I’m away, I’ll write home everyday, a__nd I’ll send all my loving to you, a__ll my loving I will send to you, a__ll my loving, d__arling, I’ll be true

Conclusion

The songs mentioned earlier offer a diverse range of new vocabulary and crucial grammar principles, making them a valuable resource for enhancing your English language proficiency, regardless of your current level. Regular listening and incorporating them into your routine are surefire ways to see improvements in your English skills.

What is your English level?

Find out your A1 A2 B1 B2 C1 C2 level of English with our online test and receive your English certificate.

Test Your English