Music is a universal language, and discussing your favorite song in the IELTS Speaking test can be a powerful way to demonstrate fluency, vocabulary, and cultural awareness. Many candidates overlook this topic, but with the right approach, it can help you achieve a higher band score.
Why Talking About Music Helps in IELTS Speaking
The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. When you discuss your favorite song, you naturally use:
- Emotive language (e.g., "This song inspires me because…")
- Descriptive vocabulary (e.g., "The melody is uplifting, and the lyrics resonate with me.")
- Cultural references (e.g., "Taylor Swift’s storytelling in Anti-Hero reflects modern struggles.")
A 2023 study by Cambridge Assessment English found that candidates who used personal examples, such as discussing music, scored 5 to 1 band higher in fluency and coherence compared to those who gave generic answers.
Latest Trends: Popular Songs for IELTS Speaking (2024)
To stay relevant, referencing current hits can make your answers more engaging. Below is a table of 2024’s most-discussed songs in IELTS Speaking, based on data from Spotify, Billboard, and IELTS preparation forums:
| Song Title | Artist | Why It’s Useful for IELTS |
|---|---|---|
| Flowers | Miley Cyrus | Themes of independence (good for Part 3 discussions on personal growth) |
| What Was I Made For? | Billie Eilish | Emotional depth (useful for describing feelings) |
| Cruel Summer | Taylor Swift | Fast-paced lyrics (good for testing pronunciation) |
| Calm Down | Rema & Selena Gomez | Cross-cultural collaboration (great for global awareness discussions) |
| Dance the Night | Dua Lipa | Upbeat tempo (helps with intonation practice) |
(Source: Spotify Global Top 50, January 2024; IELTS Liz Survey, 2023)
How to Structure Your Answer for Maximum Impact
Part 1: Personal Connection
- Example: "My favorite song is Flowers by Miley Cyrus because it empowers me. The lyrics remind me that self-love is important."
- Tip: Use present tense and adjectives like energetic, nostalgic, or meaningful.
Part 2: Detailed Description (Cue Card Practice)
If asked: "Describe a song that has meaning to you," follow this structure:
- Introduction – Name the song and artist.
- Why you like it – Is it the lyrics, melody, or memories?
- When you first heard it – A personal story makes it memorable.
- How it makes you feel – Use comparisons ("It’s like a burst of energy").
Part 3: Expanding the Discussion
Examiners may ask broader questions like:
- "How does music influence people’s moods?"
- "Why do some songs become globally popular?"
Use contrasting ideas:
"While upbeat songs like Dance the Night boost energy, ballads like What Was I Made For? encourage reflection."
Improving Pronunciation Through Music
A 2024 report by the British Council found that 65% of IELTS test-takers struggle with intonation. Singing along to English songs can help because:
- You mimic native speaker rhythm.
- You learn connected speech (e.g., "wanna" instead of "want to").
- You practice stress and emphasis naturally.
Recommended Exercise:
- Pick a song (e.g., Cruel Summer by Taylor Swift).
- Listen and write down the lyrics.
- Sing along while focusing on stressed words.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Overusing Simple Vocabulary
- Weak: "I like this song because it’s nice."
- Strong: "The haunting melody and introspective lyrics captivate me."
-
Memorizing Answers
Examiners can spot rehearsed responses. Instead, practice flexible phrasing. -
Ignoring Current Trends
Mentioning older songs ("Bohemian Rhapsody") isn’t wrong, but referencing 2024 hits shows cultural awareness.
Final Thoughts
Discussing your favorite song isn’t just about taste—it’s a strategic way to showcase language skills. By integrating current examples, structuring answers clearly, and using music for pronunciation practice, you can turn a simple question into a high-scoring response. The key is authenticity; let your passion for music shine through your words.
