![[2026] Learn English with Western Music! A roundup of recommended songs for studying English](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/XoiOOiuH8iI/maxresdefault.webp)
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)
WaterTyla
The rising South African singer Tyla released a track in July 2023 that features a distinctive sound blending pop, R&B, Afrobeats, and amapiano.
Its passionate love-themed lyrics and catchy melody are captivating.
A dance challenge on TikTok went viral, boosting its popularity worldwide.
It broke into the UK Singles Chart top 10 and climbed to No.
15 on the U.S.
Billboard Hot 100.
Nominated for a Grammy, the song became a symbol of Tyla’s international breakthrough.
Its rhythmic lyrics and repeated catchy phrases also make it great for English learners.
Highly recommended for those interested in South Africa’s music scene or looking for fresh sounds.
HelloAdele
A moving and unforgettable song released in 2015.
It features lyrics filled with deep emotion and vocals that are both powerful and delicate.
Portraying lost relationships and a dialogue with one’s past self, it deals with universal themes that resonate with many people.
As the lead single from the album “25,” it generated huge buzz and reached number one on the UK Singles Chart.
The music video was also a massive hit, surpassing 27 million views within 24 hours.
It’s great for learning English as well—listening repeatedly will improve your comprehension, and understanding the emotionally rich lyrics will help you learn natural, native-like expressions.
Why not aim to improve your English while taking in the heartfelt lyrics?
Too SweetHozier
A track taken from Irish singer-songwriter Hozier’s EP “Unheard,” released in March 2024.
It features a mid-tempo sound that skillfully incorporates blues and soul elements, highlighted by Hozier’s distinctively rich vocals.
The lyrics portray the gap between a night-owl protagonist and their more regimented lover, with the phrase “too sweet” repeated throughout.
Released as a single on March 29, 2024, it reached number one on the charts in seven countries, including Australia and the United States, and drew significant attention, even being selected as a favorite by former U.S.
President Barack Obama.
For English learners, it could serve as excellent material for picking up native expressions and pronunciation.
As It WasHarry Styles
Harry Styles, a UK-born artist who has become a global solo star.
The tracks from his 2022 album “Harry’s House” are characterized by a buoyant sound that incorporates elements of synth-pop and new wave.
Riding melodies that evoke the music of the ’80s, his powerful delivery of themes like breaking with the past and transforming into a new self is breathtaking.
The songs became massive hits around the world, including spending 10 consecutive weeks at No.
1 on the UK Singles Chart.
Harry’s expansive, soulful vocals are also great for learning English—not only do they help improve listening skills, but singing along with the lyrics is excellent pronunciation practice.
It’s a perfect track to accompany a drive.
Shake It OffTaylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s songs, which enjoy immense popularity worldwide, are captivating for their down-to-earth, relatable lyrics.
Released in August 2014, this track is an exhilarating pop number that sings about the strength to rise above criticism and gossip.
The chorus line “Shake it off” is especially memorable, reminding us of the importance of living true to ourselves.
It received high acclaim, including three Grammy nominations in 2015.
The song was also featured in the 2016 animated film Sing.
It’s perfect for learning English, so belt it out at karaoke and boost your English skills along with your positive vibes!
Someone You LovedLewis Capaldi
What kind of life experience could give rise to such a profoundly rich and wonderful voice? Born in 1996 and hailing from Scotland, Lewis Capaldi is a rising singer-songwriter who boasts overwhelming sales and undeniable talent among artists who debuted in the late 2010s.
Having been immersed in music since childhood, Capaldi saw his breakout song released in 2018 top the charts in both the UK and the US, and his debut album the following year also became a major hit.
His moving songs—rooted in a sound that mirrors his unassuming demeanor, never flashy yet deeply affecting—are also great for learning English.
With lyrics that explore themes of heartbreak and loss, and that incorporate many everyday expressions, they’re perfect for listening practice.
Close To YouCarpenters
The Carpenters’ “Close To You” is also an excellent song for learning English.
This classic, which became a big hit in 1970 and has continued to be loved by many people, has clear and easy-to-understand lyrics that help improve listening skills.
The vocabulary is largely usable in everyday conversation, making it very practical for English learners.
The lyrics are rich in romantic imagery, which fosters not only language acquisition but also cultural understanding.
Singing along while listening helps with pronunciation practice and develops a conversational sense of rhythm.
Karen’s clear enunciation and the beautiful melody will make you feel more and more familiar with English each time you listen.