572 words, 3 minute read time
Have you ever wanted to learn a new language, but the process was too tough? Traditional methods are too boring, and those language applications are just not doing it for you? Here is a tip: listen to music!
How much of a nerd would you think I am if I told you that learning languages is my favorite hobby? It is very challenging, but reaching fluency in a language completely different from yours makes it all worth it.
Personally, I love Spanish. From the language to the food and the culture. After taking Spanish courses for three years during my Bachelor’s, I picked up on a trick, which is to learn languages through music! Let me break it down for you.
Expanding your vocabulary
No matter how many courses I took and how hard I studied out of textbooks, it was not enough. That is mainly because textbooks focus on only one topic and its vocabulary in each chapter. Yes, those are helpful, but only to a certain extent. I then realized how much slang is used in songs, no matter the language. This is important because knowing these expressions expanded my vocabulary to a day-to-day level! Did you know if someone told you you have « buena onda », they’re complimenting you by saying you have good vibes? A big thank you to Redimi2 for that one!
Understanding your grammar
Vocabulary is not the only thing you can pick up on from listening to songs, though. When it comes to conjugation in Spanish, I memorized one rule thanks to a song called Carne y Hueso by TINI. If the verb in the first sentence is conjugated in the subjunctive imperfect, the verb that follows has to be in the conditional tense. I was able to memorize a tough grammar rule thanks to a catchy (yet sad) tune! Sounds easy enough, no?
Improving your pronunciation
Let’s face it: speaking another language can feel awkward when your pronunciation is off. I recently had an interview in Spanish; I was so nervous that I messed up on a few words, yet I was still considered for the position because my accent was pretty good! (Fingers crossed, I’ll get it!) Back to my main point, though. The more you listen to songs, the more you memorize them. And when you sing along, the faster and easier it will become to sound more authentic! Had it not been for Shakira, Enrique Iglesias, or even Bad Bunny, my Spanish accent would probably not have been as good. Repetition is key!
Exposing yourself to the language daily
I said it before, and I will say it again: repetition is key! Let’s be honest here, who does not listen to music every single day? My playlist of Spanish songs has surpassed 200 songs at this point. I listen to it to de-stress, when I am doing the dishes and working on my assignments. I am even listening to it as I write this! Why burn yourself out trying to learn a language from textbooks when you can gain it from something we all do daily and enjoy?
We expose ourselves to foreign music daily because it has buena onda, and we enjoy it. It is a guaranteed fun way to learn. I am curious to know what other tricks helped you learn a new language.
