[2025] Learn English with Western Music! A roundup of the best Western songs for studying English

Someone You LovedLewis Capaldi

Lewis Capaldi – Someone You Loved

What kind of life experience could give rise to such a profoundly rich and wonderful voice? Born in 1996 and hailing from Scotland, Lewis Capaldi is a rising singer-songwriter who boasts overwhelming sales and undeniable talent among artists who debuted in the late 2010s.

Having been immersed in music since childhood, Capaldi saw his breakout song released in 2018 top the charts in both the UK and the US, and his debut album the following year also became a major hit.

His moving songs—rooted in a sound that mirrors his unassuming demeanor, never flashy yet deeply affecting—are also great for learning English.

With lyrics that explore themes of heartbreak and loss, and that incorporate many everyday expressions, they’re perfect for listening practice.

All I want for christmas is youMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – All I Want For Christmas Is You (Official Video)

Let me introduce a heartwarming love song that’s essential for the Christmas season! Released in 1994 by America’s celebrated songstress Mariah Carey, this track has remained a beloved classic around the world.

The song expresses a universal feeling: wanting to spend time with a special someone rather than receiving material gifts.

While mentioning Christmas symbols like Santa and the tree, it conveys that time with a loved one is the true source of happiness.

In Japan, it drew major attention as the theme song for the Fuji TV drama “Christmas at 29.” Its simple English lyrics also make it perfect for language learners.

It’s the ideal tune when you want to soak up the Christmas mood or think of someone dear to you.

Close To YouCarpenters

Carpenters – Close to you

The Carpenters’ “Close To You” is also an excellent song for learning English.

This classic, which became a big hit in 1970 and has continued to be loved by many people, has clear and easy-to-understand lyrics that help improve listening skills.

The vocabulary is largely usable in everyday conversation, making it very practical for English learners.

The lyrics are rich in romantic imagery, which fosters not only language acquisition but also cultural understanding.

Singing along while listening helps with pronunciation practice and develops a conversational sense of rhythm.

Karen’s clear enunciation and the beautiful melody will make you feel more and more familiar with English each time you listen.

Good Luck, Babe!Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan – Good Luck, Babe! (Official Lyric Video)

A heartfelt song sung by Chapel Roan that portrays a hidden queer relationship.

Hailing from the United States, she is known for her dark, sentimental keyboard pop, traversing a wide range of genres from pop/rock to electronic.

Released in April 2024, the track is slated to be included on her upcoming album, CR2.

The lyrics, which depict a relationship with a partner struggling under societal pressures, are a treasure trove of natural English expressions.

By listening repeatedly, you can pick up native turns of phrase and pronunciation.

Highly recommended for those who want to connect with queer experiences.

Love YourselfJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Love Yourself (PURPOSE : The Movement)

This is a heartfelt ballad from Canadian pop star Justin Bieber.

Centered on saying goodbye to a self-centered ex, the song stands out with its simple guitar and trumpet tones.

Released in December 2015, it became a massive hit, topping the charts in more than 15 countries.

The lyrics carry a message that you should love yourself, emphasizing the importance of self-love and independence.

Co-written with Ed Sheeran, it showcases Bieber’s musical maturity.

It’s also great for learning English, packed with everyday expressions and natural, native-like phrasing.

Try singing along while looking at the lyrics to practice pronunciation and listening.

Just the Way You AreBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Just The Way You Are (Official Music Video)

Bruno Mars’s debut single “Just the Way You Are” quickly became a smash hit after its 2010 release and is a beloved ballad around the world.

In 2011, it won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, competing among top artists.

One of its charms lies in its simple yet moving lyrics.

As you enjoy the rhythm and sound of English, you naturally pick up the pronunciation.

What’s more, the straightforward expressions of love are easy for English learners to understand.

It’s perfect for grasping English nuances through emotionally rich expressions.

Enjoying the music while improving your English isn’t just a dream!

One Call AwayCharlie Puth

Charlie Puth – One Call Away [Official Video]

Charlie Puth’s “One Call Away” is a heartwarming classic released in 2015.

Though he can’t fly like Superman, the song promises he’ll be there with just one phone call, conveying deep devotion to a loved one.

With its concise yet rhythmic melody sprinkled with gospel elements, it’s perfect for learning English.

The lyrics are intuitively easy to understand, and through its message of love you can also pick up everyday English expressions.

It’s practically like an English textbook in song form, so be sure to use it in your studies.