30 Best Songs to Teach English: Fun & Engaging ESL Resources

Learning English can be a journey, but it doesn't have to be dull. This list isn't just about memorizing vocabulary; it's about immersing yourself in the rhythm and flow of the language through music. We've compiled a selection of tracks that showcase the beauty and diversity of English lyrics, from infectious pop anthems perfect for mastering pronunciation to emotionally resonant ballads that explore the nuances of the language. Think catchy tunes that effortlessly stick in your head, helping you pick up phrases and expand your vocabulary organically. This collection celebrates the power of music as a learning tool, highlighting artists who've crafted memorable works that are as enjoyable to listen to as they are effective for language acquisition. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, this list is designed to make your English learning experience both fun and effective.

This carefully curated selection transcends genre boundaries, offering a taste of everything from upbeat pop hits that are easy to sing along to and internalize, to more emotionally complex tracks that challenge your listening comprehension skills. You'll discover the artistry of songwriters who effortlessly blend captivating melodies with relatable lyrics, perfectly illustrating the vast expressive range of the English language. The goal is to demonstrate how enjoyable and accessible language acquisition can be, showcasing the magic of music as a powerful educational resource. By exploring this musical landscape, you'll not only improve your English but also discover a wealth of fantastic tunes that will stay with you long after you’ve mastered the lyrics. Prepare to be entertained, engaged, and empowered in your English language learning journey!

  • The Lazy Song
    1

    The Lazy Song

    Bruno Mars

    2011

    Doo-Wops & Hooligans

  • Somebody That I Used To Know
    2

    Somebody That I Used To Know

    Gotye,Kimbra

    2011

    Making Mirrors

  • Heathens
    3

    Heathens

    Twenty One Pilots

    2016

    Californication (Deluxe Edition)

  • Cheap Thrills
    4

    Cheap Thrills

    Sean Paul,Sia

    2016

    This Is Acting (Deluxe Version)

  • CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!
    5

    CAN'T STOP THE FEELING!

    Justin Timberlake

    2016

    TROLLS (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)

  • Call Me Maybe
    6

    Call Me Maybe

    Carly Rae Jepsen

    2011

    Kiss (Deluxe)

  • Stitches
    7

    Stitches

    Shawn Mendes

    2015

    Handwritten

  • Every Breath You Take
    8

    Every Breath You Take

    The Police

    1983

    Synchronicity (Remastered 2003)

  • Black or White
    9

    Black or White

    Michael Jackson

    1991

    Dangerous

  • California Dreamin'
    10

    California Dreamin'

    The Mamas and the Papas

    1965

  • Formation
    11

    Formation

    Beyoncé

    2016

  • Dust in the Wind
    12

    Dust in the Wind

    Kansas

    1977

    Point Of Know Return (Expanded Edition)

  • Here
    13

    Here

    Alessia Cara

    2015

  • Beautiful Day
    14

    Beautiful Day

    U2

    2000

    All That You Can't Leave Behind

  • Friday I'm In Love
    15

    Friday I'm In Love

    The Cure

    1992

    Wish

  • Just A Girl
    16

    Just A Girl

    No Doubt

    1995

    Tragic Kingdom

  • Unchained Melody
    17

    Unchained Melody

    The Righteous Brothers

    1965

    Just Once In My Life

  • The Sound
    18

    The Sound

    The 1975

    2016

    I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it

  • You're My Best Friend
    19

    You're My Best Friend

    Queen

    1975

    A Night At The Opera (Deluxe Remastered Version)

  • And I Love Her
    20

    And I Love Her

    The Beatles

    1964

    A Hard Day's Night (Remastered)

  • Live Forever
    21

    Live Forever

    Oasis

    1994

    Definitely Maybe (Deluxe Edition Remastered)

  • Our House
    22

    Our House

    Madness

    1982

  • Be My Baby
    23

    Be My Baby

    The Ronettes

    1963

    Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes Featuring Veronica

  • Since You've Been Gone
    24

    Since You've Been Gone

    The Outfield

    1985

  • We're Going to Be Friends
    25

    We're Going to Be Friends

    The White Stripes

    2001

  • ABC
    26

    ABC

    Jackson 5

    1970

  • Maggie May
    27

    Maggie May

    Rod Stewart

    1971

    Every Picture Tells A Story

  • I've Been Everywhere
    28

    I've Been Everywhere

    Johnny Cash

    1996

  • Bad Luck
    29

    Bad Luck

    Social Distortion

    1992

  • Sugar, Sugar
    30

    Sugar, Sugar

    The Archies

    1969