Why Talking About Hit Songs Matters in IELTS Speaking
As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked about recurring themes in the Speaking test. One such theme is music, particularly the question of “What makes a song a hit?”. This isn’t just about showcasing your musical knowledge; it’s about demonstrating your ability to:
- Analyze and express opinions: You need to go beyond simply saying you like a song. Explain why it’s popular, considering factors like melody, lyrics, cultural impact, and even marketing strategies.
- Use a range of vocabulary: Discussing music allows you to utilize a rich vocabulary related to genres, instruments, emotions, and more. This demonstrates your language proficiency to the examiner.
- Engage in a conversation: The IELTS Speaking test is not a monologue. Be prepared to discuss your views, listen to the examiner’s prompts, and engage in a natural back-and-forth.
Deconstructing a Hit: Key Elements to Consider
So, what makes a song climb the charts and capture the hearts of millions? Let’s explore some key aspects:
1. Catchy Melody and Hook
A ‘hit’ often has a memorable melody that sticks in your head. This can be a simple, repetitive tune or a more complex arrangement. The “hook” is a specific part of the song, often the chorus, that’s incredibly catchy and designed to grab the listener’s attention.
2. Relatable Lyrics
Lyrics that resonate with listeners’ experiences, emotions, or aspirations often contribute to a song’s popularity. Whether it’s a tale of love, heartbreak, or social commentary, relatable lyrics can forge a connection between the artist and the audience.
3. Cultural Relevance
Hit songs often reflect the cultural landscape of their time. This could mean tapping into current events, social movements, or even fashion trends. A song that captures the zeitgeist is more likely to resonate with a wider audience.
4. Production Quality
The way a song is produced significantly impacts its appeal. A polished production with high-quality instrumentation, vocals, and mixing can elevate a good song to a great one.
5. Marketing and Promotion
In today’s digital age, effective marketing and promotion are crucial for a song’s success. This includes strategies like social media campaigns, music video releases, collaborations with other artists, and radio play.
Music Marketing Strategies
From Theory to Practice: IELTS Speaking Examples
Let’s say the examiner asks you: “What kind of music is popular in your country?”. Here’s how you can incorporate the above points:
Basic Answer: “Pop music is very popular in my country. Many young people enjoy it.”
Improved Answer: “Pop music dominates the charts in my country, especially among young adults. I think its popularity stems from catchy melodies and relatable lyrics about love and everyday life. Plus, artists invest heavily in music videos and social media promotion, which plays a huge role in reaching a wider audience.”
Tips to Ace Your IELTS Speaking Discussion on Music
- Expand Your Musical Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with terms describing genres, instruments, moods (e.g., upbeat, melancholic), and vocal styles.
- Think Critically About Music You Enjoy: Why do you like certain songs or artists? What makes them stand out?
- Practice Discussing Music: Talk to friends, family, or classmates about your musical preferences. This helps you articulate your thoughts more clearly.
- Stay Updated on Current Music Trends: Being aware of popular artists and songs provides you with relevant examples to discuss during the exam.
Conclusion
Remember, the IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. When discussing what makes a song a hit, focus on expressing your ideas clearly, using a varied vocabulary, and showcasing your understanding of the factors involved. By following the tips outlined here, you’ll be well-prepared to impress the examiner and achieve your desired IELTS score.