IELTS Speaking Part 2 · Books, films & music
Describe a song that you enjoy listening to
Describe a song that you enjoy listening to
You should say:
- What kind of song it is
- When you first heard it
- How often you listen to it
and explain why you like this song so much.
How to plan your answer
Use your 1 minute to jot down key words for each point, not full sentences.
- 1
What kind of song it is
An uplifting acoustic folk track featuring gentle guitar and soothing vocal melodies.
- 2
When you first heard it
First discovered it on a long evening bus ride during university exams.
- 3
How often you listen to it
Listen several times a week to focus or unwind after work.
- 4
and explain why you like this song so much.
Love it because it relieves stress, offers comfort, and brings tranquility.
Sample answer
about 271 words · 2 minutesI would like to talk about a song that has held a special place in my heart for quite a few years now. It is an acoustic folk track featuring a gentle guitar melody combined with soft, warm vocals and meaningful lyrics. It is not an overly fast or energetic song; rather, it has a very peaceful, reflective tone that instantly puts you at ease. I first came across this song when I was a university student. I remember I was on a long evening bus ride back home after a particularly stressful week of final examinations. A friend lent me their headphones and recommended this track to help me relax. As soon as the opening chords started playing, I felt a wave of calm wash over me, and it instantly captured my attention. These days, I listen to it fairly frequently, probably three or four times a week. It has become my go-to track whenever I am feeling overwhelmed or when I need to focus on my work. I often play it in the background while reading or during my evening commute to help me unwind after a hectic day. The main reason I enjoy this song so much is its incredible ability to shift my mood. The lyrics deal with themes of hope and perseverance, which I find immensely comforting during challenging times. Furthermore, the acoustic arrangement is so well-produced that it never feels repetitive, no matter how many times I play it. Overall, it is more than just a piece of music to me; it is a reliable source of comfort whenever I need a moment of tranquility.
A teaching example, not a script to memorise. Say it in your own words.
Useful phrases
held a special place in my heart
That old photograph has held a special place in my heart since childhood.
instantly puts you at ease
Her warm smile instantly puts you at ease during an interview.
a wave of calm wash over me
Walking through the park made a wave of calm wash over me.
my go-to track
Whenever I go running, this upbeat song is my go-to track.
unwind after a hectic day
Drinking herbal tea helps me unwind after a hectic day at the office.
Common mistakes
I am listening this song every day.
I listen to this song every day.
The verb 'listen' requires 'to' and habits need the simple present tense.
The song makes me feel very happily.
The song makes me feel very happy.
Adjectives follow verbs of sense or feeling, not adverbs like happily.
It is a music that I really like.
It is a song that I really like.
'Music' is uncountable; use 'a song' or 'a piece of music' instead.
Tips for a higher band
- Use music-specific vocabulary like 'chords', 'arrangement', 'acoustic', and 'melody' naturally.
- Vary your tenses accurately when moving from past memories to current habits.
- Use linking words like 'rather', 'furthermore', and 'overall' to structure your speech smoothly.
Part 3 follow-up questions
After Part 2 the examiner may ask deeper questions on the same theme.
- How has technology changed the way people listen to music nowadays compared to the past?
- Do you think music education should be compulsory for young children in school?
- Why do certain songs evoke strong emotional memories in people?
Now try this cue card
1 minute to prepare, up to 2 minutes to speak, then a band estimate and tips for each criterion.
Practice estimate, not an official IELTS score.