11 great English language song lyrics

Steffanie Zazulak
A boy wearing headphones smiling listening to music

What is it about music that helps boost your English skills, confidence and pronunciation? A song can provide an emotional connection between the music and the listener, providing learners with new ways to express their feelings. Music and rhythm have also been shown to benefit memorization, which is a key component of learning.

Here are some of our favorite lyrics to some of our favorite songs:

1. The Beatles – Blackbird

The Beatles are the best band to help you learn English. There are many Beatles songs with catchy melodies and simple lyrics, but Blackbird captures the Fab Four at their most poetic:

Blackbird singing in the dead of night
Take these broken wings and learn to fly
All your life
You were only waiting for this moment to arise

2. The Cure – Friday I’m In Love

This song is a great way to help learn the days of the week (that may be obvious). Love is also a very popular English word, so this one is for all the romantics out there.

Always take a big bite
It’s such a gorgeous sight
To see you eat in the middle of the night

3. Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud

Another one for the lovers, Ed’s heartfelt lyrics are huge in the mainstream pop charts. Here, he tells the sweet story of long-time love in this ballad and he’s becoming one of the world’s most sought-after songwriters.

Take me into your loving arms
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart

4. The Smiths – How Soon Is Now?

This classic from Morrissey and co was voted runner-up in VH1’s Top Lyrics poll, for the lyrics: So you go and you stand on your own, and you leave on your own, and you go home and you cry and you want to die’ but it’s the opening lines of the song that are the most intriguing. Firstly, they’re adapted from George Eliot’s novel Middlemarch and include some rather clever double meanings – namely ‘son’ (sun) and ‘heir’ (air).

I am the son
And the heir
Of a shyness that is criminally vulgar

5. Neil Young – Heart of Gold

This was Neil Young’s only number-one hit single from 1972’s Harvest album. He uses simple lyrics and melodies to tell his story of searching for true love.

I’ve been in my mind
It’s such a fine line
That keeps me searchin’ for a heart of gold
And I’m gettin’ old

6. U2 – City of Blinding Lights

U2 is the second-best band to help you learn English and frontman Bono is the second-best male artist to help you learn (edged out by Justin Timberlake). The chorus was inspired by a moment during a performance in New York City, when Bono saw the audience lit up and shouted, “Oh, you look so beautiful tonight!”

And I miss you when you’re not around
I’m getting ready to leave the ground
Oh you look so beautiful tonight
In the city of blinding lights

7. The Police – Every Breath You Take

These lyrics are a good use of repetition and rhyme, which is excellent for helping memorization. Most people consider this a love song, but that’s a common mistake. In 1983, Sting was interviewed for New Musical Express and explained: “I think it’s a nasty little song, really rather evil. It’s about jealousy and surveillance and ownership.”

Every move you make and every vow you break
Every smile you fake, every claim you stake, I’ll be watching you
Every move you make, every step you take, I’ll be watching you

8. Bob Dylan – Mr Tambourine Man

Dylan’s whimsical, poetic lyrics might be difficult for an English language learner to interpret, but that doesn’t mean they’re not a pleasure to listen and sing along to.

Hey! Mr Tambourine Man, play a song for me
I’m not sleepy and there is no place I’m going to
Hey! Mr Tambourine Man, play a song for me
In the jingle jangle morning I’ll come followin’ you

9. Madness – Our House

This song takes you through the daily goings-on in a typical household in the 80s. This song has been around for a while now but is a story that most people can still connect with. This is an excellent song for understanding the concept of nostalgia!

I remember way back then when
everything was true and when
we would have such a very good time
such a fine time

10. Otis Reading – (Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay

Sadly, Otis Redding lost his life in a plane crash shortly after this song was recorded, and it was released after his death. His lyrics are quite reflective, provoking both contentment and sadness. You can really imagine yourself sitting on the dock with his simple yet descriptive words.

Sittin’ in the morning sun
I’ll be sittin’ when the evening comes
Watching the ships roll in
Then I watch them roll away again

11. Leonard Cohen – Everybody Knows

No list of standout turns of phrase would be complete without Leonard Cohen, a man whose songwriting process is so painstaking he’ll often spend years on the same song. When quizzed on his process, Cohen once said it often took so long because, “After a while, if you stick with the song long enough it will yield.” It’s interesting to note then that, even for a master of the English language, the words don’t always come easily. Everybody Knows remains a firm favorite among fans, with the majority of lines starting with the words ‘Everybody knows…’ It’s a lengthy song, but for the sheer beauty of its words and phrasing, the opening lines are a highlight:

Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
Everybody knows that the war is over
Everybody knows that the good guys lost

Read our post 'Can music help you learn a language?'

More blogs from app

  • Students studying outside at a table

    Why accepting app English Express Test is a great opportunity for US Institutions

    By Abi Fordham
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    By being early adopters of the app English Express Test, US universities and institutions can ensure they remain competitive and attractive to a global pool of students. Students seeking to study in the US may prefer institutions that recognize this flexible and convenient testing option, which can enhance their overall application experience. This proactive approach can help universities stand out and draw in top international talent.

    Whilst the app English Express Test can open doors to a wealth of opportunities for students eager to study in the US, early acceptance also provides significant advantages for the institutions themselves.

    The app English Express Test is designed to be a convenient and accessible option for students worldwide. Unlike traditional tests that may require extensive travel, this test can be taken online, offering students the flexibility to complete it from their own homes. This is particularly beneficial for students in remote areas, far from a test centre or those juggling multiple commitments. By accepting the app English Express Test, US universities can cater to a broader range of applicants, ensuring they don't miss out on talented individuals who might otherwise be deterred by logistical challenges.

    While tests like PTE Academic provide a comprehensive assessment of English proficiency, the app English Express Test serves as a valuable complement. It offers a quicker, more streamlined option for students who need to demonstrate their language skills promptly. By accepting both tests, US universities can offer a more flexible and inclusive admissions process.

    For admissions teams, the inclusion of the app English Express Test can significantly enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The streamlined nature of the test means quick turnaround times for results, allowing admissions teams to make faster decisions. This agility can be a competitive advantage, positioning the university as a forward-thinking institution that prioritizes student needs. Additionally, by offering a convenient testing option, universities can attract a broader pool of applicants, leading to a more diverse and inclusive student body.

    US universities should consider being among the first to accept the app English Express Test. This strategic move addresses diverse student needs, complements existing testing options, enhances the admissions process, and boosts institutional reputation.

    Adopting the app English Express Test is a forward-thinking decision that benefits both students and institutions, ensuring that US universities remain competitive in the global education landscape.

  • three university students sat outside in a courtyard looking at a laptop together

    The benefits of using the Score Report Website for PTE Academic and app English Express Test

    By Abi Fordham
    Reading time: 2 minutes

    US institutions are always on the lookout for ways to enhance their admissions processes. One effective strategy is leveraging the Score Report Website for both PTE Academic and app English Express Test. This platform offers numerous benefits that can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of admissions teams.

    Simplified score access and verification

    The Score Report Website provides a centralized platform where admissions teams can easily access and verify test scores. This eliminates the need for paper-based score reports and reduces the risk of errors associated with manual data entry. By using this digital platform, institutions can quickly retrieve accurate and up-to-date test taker scores for both PTE Academic and app English Express Test, ensuring a smooth and reliable admissions process.

    Enhanced security and accuracy

    One of the key advantages of the Score Report Website is its robust security features. The platform uses secure login protocols to protect sensitive student data.

    app’s score report website also ensures that scores cannot be tampered with, as they are sent directly through the system. This means the score that an institution sees, is the score that was awarded to a test taker. This level of security and accuracy builds trust with both students and institutions, making the admissions process more reliable.

    Faster decision-making

    The Score Report Website offers real-time access to test scores, allowing admissions teams to make quicker decisions. This is particularly beneficial during peak admissions periods when timely decisions are crucial. The platform's ability to provide instant access to scores means that institutions can respond promptly to applicants, enhancing the overall student experience.

    Cost-effective and environmentally friendly

    By embracing a digital score reporting system, institutions can reduce the costs associated with printing and mailing paper-based score reports. This not only saves money but also supports sustainability efforts by reducing paper waste. The Score Report Website aligns with the growing trend of digital transformation in higher education, promoting a more eco-friendly approach to admissions.

    Improved communication with applicants

    app's Score Report Website allows institutions to share scores with multiple departments and stakeholders seamlessly. This facilitates better communication and collaboration within the admissions team.

    Trust app with your applicants

    Using the Score Report Website to accept PTE Academic and app English Express Test applicants is a strategic move that positions your institution as a forward-thinking leader in higher education, committed to efficiency and security.

  • Students sat in a university library talking

    Why your US university needs PTE Academic and app English Express Test

    By Abi Fordham
    Reading time: 2 minutes

    Higher education is competitive and universities need to attract top talent from around the globe. One way to do this is by offering a range of secure, accurate and trusted proficiency tests. Adding the app English Express Test alongside PTE Academic can be a game-changer for both students and admissions teams.

    Meeting diverse student needs

    The app English Express Test is a convenient option for students facing time, location, or financial constraints. Unlike traditional tests, it can be taken online, allowing students to complete it from their own homes. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for students in remote areas, who are not close to a test centre.

    Complementing PTE Academic

    While PTE Academic is a truly comprehensive assessment, the app English Express Test offers a quicker, at-home option for prospective students.

    Enhancing the admissions process

    For admissions teams, the app English Express Test can enhance efficiency and effectiveness. By offering a convenient testing option, universities can attract a broader pool of applicants. The quick turnaround times for results also mean faster decision-making, reducing the waiting period for students.

    Boosting business outcomes

    From a business perspective, integrating the app English Express Test can help to increase enrolment numbers and revenue. The enhanced efficiency in the admissions process, through the use of app’s trusted Score Reporting Website, can reduce administrative costs and free up resources for other strategic initiatives.

    Additionally, offering flexible testing options can enhance the university's appeal, making it more attractive to prospective students and their families.

    What does this mean for you as an institution?

    Adding the app English Express Test alongside PTE Academic is a strategic move that benefits both students and universities. It addresses diverse student needs, complements existing testing options, enhances the admissions process, and boosts business outcomes.

    By embracing this approach, universities can attract top talent and position themselves as leaders in higher education in the US.