As you probably know, learning a second language is an exciting adventure, but it can also be daunting (and at times, overwhelming). What if I told you that you could make your journey to fluency practical, effective, and fun? One of the best and most pleasurable ways to strengthen your French listening and speaking skills is to make listening to French music a regular part of your daily routine! You can listen to songs in your commute, while exercising, or while cooking. Listening to songs in French allows you to hear authentic examples of pronunciation, intonation, and rhythm. At best French classes in Chennai, we have seen learners completely transformed just by turning on the music!
In this article, we'll look at how French songs can help speed this process along, as well as the best playlists for learners to explore.
What makes French songs to learn French so effective?
1. Effortless listening practice
When you listen to songs in French, your brain will naturally start to notice words and phrases that are repeated in the song. In a more traditional lesson, you may feel forced to remember a list of pieces of vocabulary. Listening to music is an efficient method of absorbing the language passively. That is, hearing the chorus of a song over and over again can help you to memorise the lyrics without physically trying.
2. Become familiar with pronunciation and accents
If you've studied or heard spoken French before, you will know that French has several pronunciation challenges, such as nasal sounds and liaisons between words. Listening to songs gives you an easy opportunity to mimic native speakers. When you sing along to a French song, you can practice pronunciation as well as practice rhythm and stress that some textbooks may not teach.
3. Learn real vocabulary and expressions
French songs to learn French also give you the opportunity to learn common phrases, slang, and idioms. For example, songs by artists like Stromae or Clara Luciani give learners access to common expressions that many French textbooks simply do not cover.
4. Emotions lead to retention
As you've probably experienced, music evokes various emotions. Whether it’s the sad theme of Édith Piaf’s “La Vie en Rose” (life in pink) or the more upbeat speed of emotions, they create stronger memories for your brain to hold onto. Combining emotions with positive learning experiences makes the learning fun and, more importantly, memorable.
A learner’s experience – how French music became a lifeline
Let me introduce Radhi, one of the enthusiastic learners at the best French classes in Chennai. Although Radhi tried very hard, she had concerns about understanding spoken French during her early lessons at the school. (In the grammar-heavy courses she attended, Radhi found that she would often freeze or panic when a native French speaker would converse quickly).
At some point during her studies, Radhi made a decision to begin to listen to French music each day. She began with songs by classic French artists, like Joe Dassin's “Et si tu n’ existais pas” (And if you did not exist), and then she made the leap to contemporary artists, like Vianney and Christine and the Queens.
The results were fairly quick; within weeks, she noticed that she was hearing and picking up subtle changes in comprehension. For example, she was reminded how often she would hear common phrases such as “Je ne sais pas” (I don't know) or “C’est pas grave” (don't worry)! This feeling made her more confident, and she also found herself humming or singing along.
Radhi's experience is not unique; many of our students at Best French Classes in Chennai have recognised a measurable increase in their comprehension and speaking skills after they began or continued to listen to French songs.
Top playlists every learner should check out
We have put together some playlists that can help you practice French while enjoying some music!
1. French essentials – Classics & modern hits
Includes Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Stromae, and more. A good introduction to welcoming younger and more recent French culture for the complete beginner.
2. French pop & chill
Chilled beats with artists like Angèle, Vianney, and Juliette Armanet. A good option for casual listening when you are still picking up everyday verbs and phrases.
3. Learn French with lyrics
A playlist made specifically for the language learner. Some titles feature slower versions of songs, and some have lyrics glued to videos, so you can learn while you enjoy.
4. French hip-hop & rap for advanced learners
Challenging and worthwhile artists like Orelsan and SCH. You will certainly be tested by fast speech, slang, and truncated words, but if you can get past that part, you will see some progress!
5. Romantic songs in French.
From “La Vie en Rose” to dozens of contemporary romantic ballads, these songs will help you pick up on emotional expressions and softer conversation tones.
How to use French songs in your studies:
1. Slow down
When you start, look for songs that are a little less complicated. There are tons of songs where the lyrics are clear and more straightforward, so you won't have to ask everyone to slow down!
2. Read along
You will better recognize a word when you read something and listen to something substantial at the same time. Furthermore, you can read the lyrics while you listen to the song, which will help with the process.
3. Repeat
The best part about learning songs is the muscle memory you are building when you repeat songs a few times. The pronunciation and accents will stick better if you force your muscles to remember sounds.
4. Sing along
Loosen up, and just sing! Singing is a great way to practice speaking, and sometimes singing is included. If you make a mistake, it's just a mistake!
5. Write & reflect
Make a mark of new words and expressions, and phrases in the songs that you've heard.
6. Have an accountability partner
Find a learning partner or mentor to check in with you regularly.
Register today at our Best French Classes in Chennai and feel the rhythm of the French language!
Start your French journey with music today!
If you are serious about learning the French language, combining the theory-based component of learning with the fun component offered by music, French songs to learn French is the perfect strategy. At Fluent French, the best French classes in Chennai, we encourage our learners to take advantage of every available tool, including songs that help them seek out a different style or different ways to build listening comprehension and speaking (natural) abilities.
Join us, and enjoy a holistic approach where grammar meetings, conversation practice, and cultural enjoyment are provided.
Are you ready to make some singing mistakes and still have fun with it? Explore some French songs to learn French, follow our lead, and let yourself be amazed by how much you can pick up!
