How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Famous Singer from Your Country

As an IELTS examiner with extensive experience in evaluating speaking tests, I’ll provide you with valuable insights on how to effectively answer questions and handle situations in the IELTS Speaking test to achieve the highest possible score. Let’s focus on the topic “Describe A Famous Singer From Your Country” and explore strategies to excel in this task.

Understanding the IELTS Speaking Test Structure

Before we dive into the specific topic, it’s crucial to understand the structure of the IELTS Speaking test. The test consists of three parts:

1. Part 1: Introduction and Interview
2. Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)
3. Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Let’s explore each part in detail and see how you can approach the topic of describing a famous singer from your country.

Famous Singer Performance

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this part, the examiner will ask you general questions about yourself and familiar topics. While the main topic of describing a famous singer will be addressed in Part 2, you might encounter related questions in Part 1. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you like listening to music?
2. What kind of music do you enjoy?
3. Do you have a favorite singer?
4. How often do you listen to music?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the question “Do you have a favorite singer?”

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Yes, I do. My favorite singer is Son Tung M-TP. He’s quite popular in Vietnam, especially among young people. I really enjoy his music and find his songs catchy.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Absolutely! I’m particularly fond of Son Tung M-TP, a prominent figure in the Vietnamese music industry. His unique blend of pop and traditional Vietnamese elements, coupled with his innovative approach to music production, has revolutionized the local music scene. I find his artistic vision truly inspiring.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this part, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some prompts. You’ll have one minute to prepare, and then you’ll need to speak for 1-2 minutes on the given topic. Here’s a sample cue card for our topic:

Describe a famous singer from your country
You should say:

• Who the singer is
• What kind of music they sing
• Why they are famous
• And explain why you like or dislike this singer

Sample answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about Son Tung M-TP, a famous singer from Vietnam. He’s a young pop artist who started his career in 2011 and has become incredibly popular since then.

Son Tung mainly sings pop music, but he often incorporates elements of traditional Vietnamese music into his songs. This unique blend has helped him stand out in the music industry. He’s known for his catchy melodies and meaningful lyrics.

He’s famous for several reasons. Firstly, his music style is quite unique and appeals to a wide audience. Secondly, he’s very hardworking and consistently releases new music. Lastly, he’s also known for his fashion sense and has become a style icon for many young people in Vietnam.

I personally like Son Tung because his music is very relatable. His songs often talk about love, life, and personal struggles, which many people can connect with. Additionally, I admire his dedication to his craft and how he’s always trying to innovate and improve his music.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss Son Tung M-TP, an iconic figure in the Vietnamese music industry. Son Tung emerged on the scene in 2011 and has since revolutionized the country’s pop music landscape.

Son Tung is primarily known for his pop music, but what sets him apart is his ingenious fusion of contemporary pop with traditional Vietnamese musical elements. This unique amalgamation has not only created a distinctive sound but has also helped preserve and promote Vietnamese cultural heritage through modern music.

His fame can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, his innovative approach to music production has set new standards in the industry. Secondly, his poignant lyrics often touch on universal themes that resonate deeply with his audience. Lastly, his charismatic stage presence and fashion-forward image have elevated him to the status of a cultural icon.

Personally, I find Son Tung’s work captivating for several reasons. His artistic vision and willingness to push boundaries in a relatively conservative music industry are truly admirable. Moreover, the way he seamlessly integrates social commentary into his music, addressing issues like personal growth and societal expectations, adds a layer of depth and relevance to his work. His commitment to authenticity in his artistic expression, despite facing occasional controversies, is a quality I deeply respect.”

Follow-up questions:

1. How has Son Tung M-TP influenced the Vietnamese music industry?
2. Do you think traditional elements in modern music are important? Why or why not?
3. What challenges do you think famous singers like Son Tung face in their careers?

Sample answer for question 1 (Band 8-9):
“Son Tung M-TP has had a profound impact on the Vietnamese music industry. His innovative approach to blending pop with traditional elements has inspired a new generation of artists to explore their cultural roots in modern contexts. Moreover, his international collaborations, such as working with Snoop Dogg, have paved the way for Vietnamese artists to gain global recognition. His success has also raised the bar for music production quality in Vietnam, encouraging other artists and producers to strive for international standards.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic in Part 2. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

1. How has technology changed the music industry in your country?

Sample answer (Band 6-7):
“Technology has greatly impacted the music industry in Vietnam. Now, artists can easily share their music online through platforms like YouTube and Spotify. This has made it easier for new artists to gain popularity. Also, social media has helped singers connect with their fans more directly.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Technology has revolutionized the music landscape in Vietnam. The advent of digital platforms like Spotify and YouTube has democratized music distribution, allowing independent artists to bypass traditional gatekeepers and reach audiences directly. This has led to a more diverse music scene and the emergence of niche genres. Moreover, social media has transformed artist-fan relationships, enabling real-time interaction and fostering a sense of community. However, it’s a double-edged sword – while it’s easier to gain exposure, the oversaturation of content means artists must be increasingly innovative to stand out.”

2. Do you think it’s important for a country to have its own music industry? Why or why not?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe it’s crucial for a country to have its own music industry for several reasons. Firstly, music is a powerful medium for cultural expression and preservation. A thriving local music industry ensures that a country’s unique cultural narratives and traditions are continually reinterpreted and kept alive for new generations. Secondly, a robust music industry contributes significantly to the economy, creating jobs not just for artists, but also for producers, marketers, event organizers, and many others in the creative sector. Furthermore, a strong domestic music scene can enhance a country’s soft power on the global stage, facilitating cultural exchange and diplomatic relations. However, it’s equally important that the local industry remains open to global influences to foster innovation and prevent stagnation.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can help elevate your responses:

1. Iconic figure /aɪˈkɒnɪk ˈfɪɡə/ (noun phrase): A very famous or popular person who represents a particular idea or way of life.
   Example: “Son Tung M-TP has become an iconic figure in Vietnamese pop culture.”

2. Revolutionize /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ (verb): To change something completely and dramatically.
   Example: “His unique style has revolutionized the Vietnamese music industry.”

3. Ingenious fusion /ɪnˈdʒiːniəs ˈfjuːʒən/ (noun phrase): A clever and original combination of different elements.
   Example: “His music is an ingenious fusion of modern pop and traditional Vietnamese sounds.”

4. Distinctive sound /dɪˈstɪŋktɪv saʊnd/ (noun phrase): A unique and recognizable musical style.
   Example: “The incorporation of traditional instruments gives his music a distinctive sound.”

5. Poignant lyrics /ˈpɔɪnjənt ˈlɪrɪks/ (noun phrase): Words in a song that evoke a keen sense of sadness or regret.
   Example: “His poignant lyrics often touch on themes of love and loss.”

6. Charismatic stage presence /ˌkærɪzˈmætɪk steɪdʒ ˈprezns/ (noun phrase): The ability to attract and influence audiences when performing.
   Example: “His charismatic stage presence captivates audiences at every performance.”

Tips from an IELTS Examiner

As an experienced IELTS examiner, here are some key tips to help you excel in the Speaking test:

1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is crucial. Try to speak English every day, even if it’s just talking to yourself about your daily activities.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning idiomatic expressions and sophisticated vocabulary related to various topics. Use them naturally in your responses.

3. Work on your pronunciation: Clear pronunciation is essential for a high score. Pay attention to word stress and intonation.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just give short answers. Expand on your points with examples and explanations.

5. Stay calm and confident: Remember, the examiner is not trying to trick you. Stay relaxed and view the test as a conversation rather than an interrogation.

6. Listen carefully: Make sure you understand the question before answering. It’s okay to ask for clarification if needed.

7. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Speak naturally and let your personality shine through.

By following these strategies and continuously improving your English skills, you’ll be well-prepared to describe a famous singer from your country and tackle any topic that comes up in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key to success is practice, confidence, and authenticity. Good luck!