[2026] Learn English with Western Music! A roundup of recommended songs for studying English
Even among Western music fans, not everyone necessarily understands English, and many people probably wonder, “I want to study English by listening to Western songs, but can I really use them for studying?” To get straight to the point, learning English through Western music is effective, and it’s a great study method that lets you pick up many expressions unique to native speakers! Of course, just listening passively won’t help you study.
Start by singing along while looking at the lyrics—this also trains pronunciation and linking.
Repeating songs will also help with listening practice.
This article compiles classic Western songs suitable for English-learning beginners, so please use it as a reference!
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[2026] Learn English with Western Music! A Roundup of Recommended Songs for Studying English (1–10)
One Call AwayCharlie Puth
Charlie Puth’s “One Call Away” is a heartwarming classic released in 2015.
Though he can’t fly like Superman, the song promises he’ll be there with just one phone call, conveying deep devotion to a loved one.
With its concise yet rhythmic melody sprinkled with gospel elements, it’s perfect for learning English.
The lyrics are intuitively easy to understand, and through its message of love you can also pick up everyday English expressions.
It’s practically like an English textbook in song form, so be sure to use it in your studies.
Birds of a FeatherBillie Eilish
Billie Eilish’s song explores deep bonds and love, carried by a gentle, comforting vocal delivery.
Featured on her May 2024 album “Hit Me Hard and Soft,” the track has drawn attention, including being used in PR for a Netflix drama.
It stands out for its fusion of electropop and ballad elements, highlighted by Eilish’s emotive vocals.
The lyrics convey a strong desire for lasting relationships and a resolve to overcome hardships with a loved one, expressing the complexity of romance and the importance of connection.
As an American singer, her pronunciation and natural linking make the song ideal for learning native speech patterns, and repeated listening can help improve your listening skills.
Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan
A heartfelt song sung by Chapel Roan that portrays a hidden queer relationship.
Hailing from the United States, she is known for her dark, sentimental keyboard pop, traversing a wide range of genres from pop/rock to electronic.
Released in April 2024, the track is slated to be included on her upcoming album, CR2.
The lyrics, which depict a relationship with a partner struggling under societal pressures, are a treasure trove of natural English expressions.
By listening repeatedly, you can pick up native turns of phrase and pronunciation.
Highly recommended for those who want to connect with queer experiences.
[2026] Learn English with Western Music! A roundup of recommended Western songs for studying English (11–20)
Just the Way You AreBruno Mars
Bruno Mars’s debut single “Just the Way You Are” quickly became a smash hit after its 2010 release and is a beloved ballad around the world.
In 2011, it won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, competing among top artists.
One of its charms lies in its simple yet moving lyrics.
As you enjoy the rhythm and sound of English, you naturally pick up the pronunciation.
What’s more, the straightforward expressions of love are easy for English learners to understand.
It’s perfect for grasping English nuances through emotionally rich expressions.
Enjoying the music while improving your English isn’t just a dream!
Stay With MeSam Smith
Sam Smith, a singer-songwriter from the United Kingdom, enjoys immense popularity around the world.
Their pop music, infused with elements of soul and R&B, captivates listeners with a moving vocal presence.
Featured on the debut album In the Lonely Hour, this song portrays the poignant feelings that follow a one-night relationship.
Its gospel-style chorus and Sam Smith’s emotionally rich singing are particularly striking.
Released in 2014, it climbed high on charts across many countries and received critical acclaim, including two awards at the 57th Grammy Awards.
For English learners, its simple lyrics and clear pronunciation make it ideal for listening practice, and the heartfelt words can help broaden one’s range of emotional expression.
All I want for christmas is youMariah Carey
Let me introduce a heartwarming love song that’s essential for the Christmas season! Released in 1994 by America’s celebrated songstress Mariah Carey, this track has remained a beloved classic around the world.
The song expresses a universal feeling: wanting to spend time with a special someone rather than receiving material gifts.
While mentioning Christmas symbols like Santa and the tree, it conveys that time with a loved one is the true source of happiness.
In Japan, it drew major attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Christmas at 29.” Its simple English lyrics also make it perfect for language learners.
It’s the ideal tune when you want to soak up the Christmas mood or think of someone dear to you.
Don’t Start NowDua Lipa
Dua Lipa from the UK released “Don’t Start Now” in 2019, a masterpiece that breathes new life into nostalgic disco sounds.
It’s also perfect for studying English! The lyrics are full of expressions and phrases you can use in everyday conversation, and Lipa’s clear enunciation makes it easy to understand and great for practicing pronunciation.
Singing along to the rhythm can boost your listening skills and help you develop a natural sense of English rhythm.
The uplifting melody will also enhance your motivation to learn!