Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe a Famous Singer from Your Country

IELTS Speaking candidates are often asked to discuss famous people from their home countries. One popular topic is describing a well-known singer or musician. This task allows you to showcase your language skills while demonstrating cultural knowledge. Let’s explore how to excel in this speaking topic and boost your IELTS score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, you may encounter questions related to music and famous singers. Here are some common questions:

1. Do you like listening to music?
2. What type of music do you enjoy?
3. Who is your favorite singer?
4. How often do you listen to music?
5. Have you ever been to a live concert?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the question: “Who is your favorite singer?”

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“Well, I’m a big fan of Trinh Cong Son, a legendary Vietnamese singer-songwriter. He’s often referred to as the ‘Bob Dylan of Vietnam‘ because of his poetic lyrics and influential music. What I admire most about him is how he blended traditional Vietnamese melodies with Western influences to create a unique sound. His songs often touch on themes of love, war, and social issues, which I find deeply moving and thought-provoking.”

Famous Vietnamese singer Trinh Cong Son

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and prompts. Here’s an example related to describing a famous singer:

Describe a famous singer from your country
You should say:
- Who this person is
- What kind of music they perform
- Why they are famous
- And explain why you like or dislike their music

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

“I’d like to talk about Son Tung M-TP, who is currently one of the most popular singers in Vietnam. He’s a young artist who primarily performs pop and R&B music. Son Tung M-TP gained fame through his catchy tunes and modern style, which appeal to the younger generation.

He became famous after releasing his debut single ‘Con Mua Ngang Qua‘ in 2012, which quickly went viral. Since then, he’s consistently produced hit songs and has even collaborated with international artists like Snoop Dogg.

I personally enjoy his music because it’s energetic and upbeat. His lyrics often relate to young people’s experiences, which makes his songs relatable. Moreover, I admire how he’s pushed boundaries in the Vietnamese music industry by incorporating international trends while maintaining a distinctly Vietnamese flavor.”

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to discuss My Tam, an iconic figure in the Vietnamese music industry. She’s renowned for her versatile vocal range and her ability to perform various genres, including pop, R&B, and even some elements of traditional Vietnamese music.

My Tam rose to prominence in the early 2000s and has since maintained her status as one of Vietnam’s most successful and influential artists. Her fame stems not only from her musical talents but also from her philanthropic work and her role as a coach on Vietnam’s version of The Voice.

What sets My Tam apart is her powerful and emotive voice, coupled with her songwriting skills. Many of her songs explore themes of love, personal growth, and social issues, resonating deeply with listeners across generations. Her ability to convey raw emotion through her music is truly captivating.

I’m particularly drawn to My Tam’s music because of its authenticity and depth. She doesn’t just create catchy pop tunes; she crafts musical narratives that often reflect societal changes in Vietnam. Her dedication to her craft and her continuous evolution as an artist over the past two decades are truly admirable. Moreover, her success has paved the way for many female artists in Vietnam, making her a trailblazer in the industry.”

My Tam, famous Vietnamese singer, performing on stage

Follow-up questions:

1. How has this singer influenced the music industry in your country?
2. Do you think international success is important for singers from your country?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“My Tam has had a profound impact on the Vietnamese music industry. She’s raised the bar for live performances and vocal prowess, inspiring a new generation of singers to focus on their craft. Her success has also opened doors for Vietnamese artists to gain recognition on international platforms.

Regarding international success, while it’s not crucial, it can certainly elevate a singer’s profile and bring positive attention to Vietnamese music. However, what’s more important is the ability to connect with the local audience and contribute meaningfully to the country’s cultural landscape. That said, artists who achieve international recognition often return with fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that can enrich the local music scene.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How has the music industry in your country changed over the past few decades?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):

“The music industry in Vietnam has undergone significant transformations in recent years. One major change is the shift towards digital platforms. Streaming services like Spotify and YouTube have become the primary means for artists to reach their audience, replacing traditional album sales.

Another notable change is the increased diversity in musical genres. While traditional Vietnamese music remains popular, there’s been a surge in Western-influenced styles like hip-hop and electronic dance music. This has led to more fusion music, blending traditional elements with modern sounds.

Lastly, social media has revolutionized how artists interact with fans. Musicians now have direct channels to engage with their audience, promote their work, and build their brand. This has democratized the industry to some extent, allowing independent artists to gain followings without necessarily needing major label backing.”

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The Vietnamese music industry has experienced a seismic shift over the past few decades, mirroring global trends while retaining its unique cultural essence. The most profound change has been the digital revolution. Streaming platforms and social media have fundamentally altered how music is produced, distributed, and consumed. This shift has democratized the industry, allowing independent artists to flourish alongside established acts.

Another significant development is the diversification of genres. While traditional Vietnamese music continues to hold cultural importance, there’s been a burgeoning interest in a wide array of styles, from K-pop-inspired groups to underground hip-hop scenes. This has led to a rich tapestry of musical fusion, where artists deftly blend traditional Vietnamese elements with contemporary global sounds.

The industry has also seen a marked internationalization. Vietnamese artists are increasingly collaborating with international performers and targeting global audiences. This has not only broadened the appeal of Vietnamese music but has also introduced new production techniques and business models to the local industry.

Lastly, there’s been a notable shift in lyrical content. Modern Vietnamese music often tackles social issues and personal experiences more openly, reflecting changing societal norms and values. This evolution has positioned music as a powerful medium for social commentary and cultural expression in contemporary Vietnam.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

To achieve a high score in IELTS Speaking, it’s crucial to use a range of vocabulary and complex structures. Here are some useful terms and phrases:

1. Iconic figure (noun) /aɪˈkɒnɪk ˈfɪɡə/: A very famous person who represents a particular idea or way of life.
   Example: “Bob Dylan is an iconic figure in American folk music.”

2. Versatile (adjective) /ˈvɜːsətaɪl/: Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
   Example: “Her versatile voice allows her to perform various genres of music.”

3. Philanthropic (adjective) /ˌfɪlənˈθrɒpɪk/: Seeking to promote the welfare of others, especially by donating money to good causes.
   Example: “Many famous singers engage in philanthropic work to give back to their communities.”

4. Trailblazer (noun) /ˈtreɪlbleɪzə/: A person who is the first to do something; an innovator.
   Example: “As a female rapper in a male-dominated genre, she’s been a real trailblazer.”

5. To resonate with (phrasal verb) /ˈrezəneɪt wɪð/: To evoke a feeling of shared emotion or belief.
   Example: “His lyrics about urban life resonate with many young listeners.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test when describing a famous singer or musician:

1. Prepare in advance: Research famous singers from your country and their impact on the music industry.

2. Use specific examples: Mention song titles, albums, or significant events in the singer’s career to add depth to your answer.

3. Show personal engagement: Explain why you like or dislike the singer’s music, demonstrating critical thinking.

4. Employ a range of vocabulary: Use music-specific terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.

5. Practice fluency: Aim for smooth delivery without long pauses. Regular practice with a speaking partner can help.

6. Develop your answers: Don’t just list facts. Elaborate on your points and connect them to broader themes or personal experiences.

7. Stay on topic: While it’s good to expand on your answers, make sure you’re addressing the question asked.

By following these tips and using the sample answers as inspiration, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about famous singers in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to demonstrate your language skills while engaging in a natural, fluent conversation about the topic.