If you’re learning to speak Spanish and like music and songs, you can combine both to help you improve your Spanish language.
Listening to songs is a fun and fascinating way to enhance your Spanish skills. You also don’t have to rely only on textbooks or class discussions since music can supplement your studies and help you speak better.
The Spanish language is highly melodic, and what better way to learn a musical language than by singing?
But can you really study and enhance your Spanish language with songs? What type of Spanish music can you use to learn Spanish, and where can you find it?
Let’s find out everything in this article.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- About Spanish Songs and Music
- How can you use Spanish Music to learn Spanish?
- Spanish songs for kids
-
Top Spanish Songs for learning Spanish
- 1. Despacito by Luis Fonsi
- 2. Amor Prohibido by Selena
- 3. Baila Morena by Zucchero
- 4. Sueños by Natti Natasha
- 5. “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
- 6. La Bicicleta by Carlos Vives and Shakira
- 7. “Himno de mi Corazón,” by Jesse & Joy
- 8. “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony
- 9. “Me Gustas Tú” by Manu Chao
- 10. La Camisa Negra by Juanes
- 11. El Favor by Camilo
- 12. Sin Pijama by Becky G and Natti Natasha
-
YouTube channels for Spanish learners
- 1. Busy Beavers — Kids Learning Videos
- 2. Butterfly Spanish
- 3. Easy Spanish
- 4. Why Not Spanish
- 5. SpanishDict
- 6. Professor Jason
- 7. Spanish Mama
- 8. Spanish and Go
- 9. Cocomelon – Nursery Rhymes
- 10. Little Baby Bum
- 11. KidsTV123
- 12. Super Simple Songs – Spanish
- 13. Español con Juan
- 14. Super Simple Español
- 15. Spanish Playlist
- 16. Learn Spanish with Music
- 17. SpanishPod101
- Spanish learning music app
- How to find music to help you learn Spanish?
- Final Words on Learning Spanish with Music
About Spanish Songs and Music
Spanish is the third most spoken native tongue in the world. Knowing this language can help you connect with a large and diverse audience.
Spanish is known for its rich history, colorful culture, and different dialects of Spanish. As a result, it is a vital language for business, diplomacy, and cultural exchange.
The history of music in the Spanish language is rich and diverse. It has been a part of Spanish culture for centuries, with various styles and genres developing.
Spanish music can help you learn about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Many songs are inspired by the customs and traditions of different Hispanophone nations. So you can understand these places better by listening to them.
Many Latin American countries have a rich musical heritage. Studying Spanish can help you better understand and appreciate the music of these cultures.
Spanish can also help communicate with locals if you tour regions where this is widespread. If you are working or intend to be part of the music industry, you have a good reason to learn Spanish.
How can you use Spanish Music to learn Spanish?
Listening to Spanish music can be a delightful way to learn the language. Music can help improve your pronunciation and accent. By listening to native sing, you can get a sense of how words are pronounced and the rhythm of the language.
Spanish music can help you learn new vocabulary. Many songs include lyrics that use a wide range of words and phrases, which can support, expand and improve your understanding of the language.
Spanish songs are great entertainers. You can make learning Spanish more enjoyable and engaging by listening to music you enjoy.
1. Listen to music in the language you are learning
When you are trying to improve your Spanish through music, listening to songs in the language you are trying to learn can help you understand the language better.
The songs and lyrics expose you to an authentic version you might not encounter in traditional courses. You know how words are pronounced in the real world and discover the right accents.
It encourages you to develop your listening comprehension skills and increase your knowledge of unfamiliar words, phrases, and grammar rules. You can also use them in context.
2. Sing along with the lyrics multiple times
Singing and repeating song lyrics can help you practice and reinforce your pronunciation. In this way, you are forced to pay attention to the sounds and rhythm of the words, allowing you to comprehend phonetics better.
The vocals and tempo can also help you memorize new words, phrases, and sentences. This can support your studies and improve your memory.
First, listen without looking at the lyrics. Then hear it again, reading the lines. Finally, try to sing along with the song.
As you gain confidence, you can try more challenging songs with faster rhythms and more complex lyrics. Try to incorporate singing into your Spanish learning routine regularly.
3. Translate the lyrics
Translating the lyrics of a song can help you learn new terms and phrases. It can also help you improve your understanding of the language.
When translating the lyrics of a song, it’s essential to consider the context of the words and phrases used.
For example, lyrics are often poetic, which can be harder to translate than conversational language. Likewise, it’s vital to pay attention to cultural references and colloquialisms that may not have a direct translation into another language.
All in one, translating Spanish song lyrics can be a cheerful and effective way to supplement language learning.
4. Look up the meanings of words you don’t know
If you encounter a word you don’t know, try looking it up to see what it means. This can help you expand your vocabulary and improve your language understanding.
Growing your vocabulary is an integral part of Spanish learning. Acquiring new phrases and their meanings can help you better understand the language and improve your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
There are many ways to look up words. For instance, a dictionary, a translation app, or searching for the word online. It’s crucial to use reliable sources and understand the context in which the term is used.
5. Use music to practice listening comprehension
Music can be a wonderful tool for practicing listening comprehension in a foreign language. It helps differentiate sounds, rhythms, intonations, and how words are expressed.
Try listening to a song without looking at the lyrics and see how much you can understand. This can help you improve your listening comprehension skills. Also, Spanish learners become more familiar with commonly used vocabulary and grammar structures.
Beginners may start with slower-paced songs with simple lyrics. In contrast, more advanced learners may want to challenge themselves with faster-paced songs and more complex lyrics.
Spanish songs for kids
Many songs are suitable for kids to listen to as they learn Spanish with songs. Here are a few examples:
1. El Baile del Sapo (The Frog Dance)
“El Baile del Sapo” is a popular Spanish-language song that originated in Venezuela. The title translates to “The Dance of the Toad” in English.
This song is known for its catchy melody and danceable rhythm. The musical theme and danceable rhythm are about a frog who loves to dance and is perfect for kids who enjoy moving to music.
2. Cinco Patitos (Five Little Ducks)
“Cinco Patitos” is a traditional Spanish children’s song that translates to “Five Little Ducks” in English.
This song is often used to teach young children counting and basic vocabulary, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to counting in Spanish.
The song continues with the same pattern, with each verse counting down the number of little ducks that return to Mama duck. The simple and repetitive nature of the song makes it easy for children to learn and remember Spanish.
3. La Mano Arriba (Hands Up)
This fun, energetic song is excellent for getting kids moving and dancing.
“La Mano Arriba” is a Spanish song by the Chilean band Ráfaga. The title translates to “Hand Up” in English.
The song is known for its upbeat tempo and catchy melody. It is usually played in dance clubs and parties in Central and South America.
4. La Gallina Turuleca (The Fussy Hen)
“La Gallina Turuleca” is a Spanish children’s song that tells the story of a fussy hen who doesn’t like her life on the farm and dreams of a better life.
This lively, playful song is about a hen always fussing about something. The music has been popular in Spain and Latin America for many years and has been covered by various artists.
5. El Elefante (The Elephant)
“El Elefante” is a traditional Spanish children’s song that translates to “The Elephant” in English. This simple, catchy song about an elephant is perfect for kids just starting to learn Spanish.
The song continues with each piece of poetry, adding another elephant to the swinging group until they all fall off and go to bed. The easy and repetitive character of the music makes it easy for children to learn and sing along.
Top Spanish Songs for learning Spanish
Many popular songs in Spanish can be helpful for learners of the language.
These songs represent various genres, including rock, pop, salsa, and more. They are all popular Spanish-language songs that have gained international recognition and have been widely listened to by Spanish speakers worldwide.
Here are some famous ones that are often recommended for language learners.
1. Despacito by Luis Fonsi
“Despacito” is a Spanish-language song by Puerto Rican singer Luis Fonsi, featuring Puerto Rican rapper Daddy Yankee.
This song is often used in language classes and Spanish language learning apps to practice Spanish listening comprehension and vocabulary.
The song was released in 2017 and quickly became a global phenomenon, breaking records and becoming one of the most streamed and watched videos on YouTube. It has simple, repetitive lyrics that are easy to follow.
2. Amor Prohibido by Selena
“Amor Prohibido” is a classic Spanish song by the late Tejano music superstar Selena, released in 1994.
The passionate vocals and energetic rhythm have made it a favorite among Selena’s and Tejano music fans.
The song tells the story of a forbidden love between two people from different social classes, a common theme in many Latin American songs and stories. It features a catchy beat and simple, repetitive lyrics that are easy to learn.
3. Baila Morena by Zucchero
“Baila Morena” is a Spanish song by Italian singer-songwriter Zucchero, released in 2004. The song has a lively, upbeat rhythm and is sung in Spanish and Italian.
The lyrics encourage a woman to dance and let loose, celebrating her beauty and spirit.
The mix of Spanish and Italian adds to the song’s global appeal. It’s a favorite among Latin and pop music fans because of its melody and rhythm.
4. Sueños by Natti Natasha
“Sueños” song is a Dominican singer-songwriter Natti Natasha released in 2020. The song has a romantic and dreamy tone, with lyrics that express the singer’s desire to find true love and happiness.
This upbeat, reggaeton-style song features a catchy beat and simple, repetitive lyrics that are easy to learn.
The song’s catchy melody and joyful spirit have made it a hit with fans of Hispanic music globally. It is an excellent example of how music can celebrate diversity and promote cross-cultural understanding.
5. “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
“La Bamba” is a traditional Mexican folk song popularized by Ritchie Valens, a Chicano rock and roll singer, in the late 1950s. The song has a fast-paced rhythm and catchy melody, making it a Latin American music genre classic.
This classic song is often played at parties and celebrations and has been covered by many artists since. The lyrics celebrate the pleasure and excitement of dancing and describe the steps and movements required to perform the Bamba, a traditional dance from Veracruz, Mexico.
The chorus has the repeated phrase “Yo no soy marinero, soy capitán” (I am not a sailor, I am a captain), a lively reference to taking charge and leading the dance.
6. La Bicicleta by Carlos Vives and Shakira
“La Bicicleta” is a Spanish song by Colombian singers Carlos Vives and Shakira, released in 2016. The song has a catchy, upbeat rhythm and lyrics celebrating Colombia’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
The lyrics describe the singers’ journey through various Colombian cities and regions. They encounter different people and experiences contributing to their national identity and pride.
The chorus repeats “Que viva la bicicleta” (Long live the bicycle). It is a living metaphor for simple pleasures and the importance of staying grounded in one’s roots and culture.
7. “Himno de mi Corazón,” by Jesse & Joy
“Himno de mi Corazón” is a Latin song by Mexican-American brother-sister duo Jesse & Joy, released in 2019. The song has a mellow and romantic tone, with lyrics representing the singer’s deep and enduring love for their partner.
The song’s lyrics describe the bond between two people deeply in love and the comfort and security of being with that person.
The choir has the repeated phrase “Eres el himno de mi corazón” (You are the anthem of my heart), symbolizing the singer’s deep and enduring love for their partner.
8. “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony
“Vivir Mi Vida” is a song by Puerto Rican-American singer Marc Anthony, released in 2013. The song has a lively and energetic rhythm, with lyrics encouraging living life to the fullest and embracing happiness and joy.
This festive salsa song was a massive hit for Puerto Rican singer Marc Anthony and is still widely known today.
The song’s appealing melody and infectious rhythm have made it a hit among fans of Latin pop music worldwide. It is an outstanding example of the positive and uplifting messages that can be conveyed through music.
9. “Me Gustas Tú” by Manu Chao
This is a popular song by French-born singer Manu Chao, who sings in various languages, including Spanish.
“Me Gustas Tú” was released in 2001. The song has a catchy and joyful rhythm, with lively lyrics that express the singer’s affection for a person they have a crush on.
The lyrics are simple and playful and describe the many things the singer likes, all associated with the person they are crushing on. It is about the attraction to the object of their affection.
10. La Camisa Negra by Juanes
“La Camisa Negra” is a Spanish-language song by Colombian musician Juanes, released in 2005.
The song has a cheerful rhythm, with lyrics that describe the pain and heartbreak caused by a failed relationship. The lyrics are poetic and metaphorical, describing the emotional turmoil the singer is going through because of a failed relationship.
This song is famous for intermediate learners because it has a catchy and simple melody. It’s a love song about a woman who wears a black shirt and uses a lot of familiar, everyday vocabulary.
11. El Favor by Camilo
“El Favor” is a Spanish-language song by Colombian singer-songwriter Camilo, released in 2019.
The song has a fun and lively beat, with animated lyrics that express the singer’s desire to win over a love interest. The lyrics are playful and flirtatious, describing the singer’s attempt to win over a love interest by asking her for a bit of favor.
This slower, ballad-like song has a catchy melody and uncomplicated, repetitive lyrics. It’s a love song about being in love and how it makes the singer feel.
12. Sin Pijama by Becky G and Natti Natasha
“Sin Pijama” is a Spanish song by American singer Becky G and Dominican singer Natti Natasha, released in 2018.
The song has a smooth reggaeton rhythm, with lyrics that express the singers’ desire to have a fun and spontaneous night out without worrying about societal norms.
This is a fast-paced and fantastic choice for intermediate learners because it uses many everyday vocabularies and has simple, repetitive lyrics.
YouTube channels for Spanish learners
Here is a list of YouTube channels you can use to learn Spanish music and improve your understanding of Spanish.
1. Busy Beavers — Kids Learning Videos
This channel features a wide variety of educational videos for kids, including many songs and rhymes in Spanish.
2. Butterfly Spanish
This channel offers easy-to-follow videos that cover basic to intermediate Spanish. The host is a native speaker, and she covers beneficial words, phrases, and grammar rules.
3. Easy Spanish
This channel features interviews with native speakers on the streets of various Spanish-speaking countries. It’s a great way to practice listening skills and learn new vocabulary and phrases. This can prepare you for various Spanish language exams.
4. Why Not Spanish
This Spanish learning YouTube channel is fantastic for intermediate and advanced learners. The hosts speak Spanish and cover various topics about Spanish culture, history, and current events.
5. SpanishDict
This YouTube channel offers easy-to-follow videos on Spanish grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. They also have videos that teach you how to speak Spanish like a native.
6. Professor Jason
The channel professor Jason is incredible for beginners and intermediate learners. The videos cover grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation and are taught by a Spanish teacher.
7. Spanish Mama
This popular YouTube channel for Spanish learners provides educational videos for parents who want to teach their children Spanish. The videos cover basic Spanish vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
8. Spanish and Go
This channel showcases real-life conversations between two native Spanish speakers. It’s a splendid way to practice listening skills and learn new phrases and vocabulary.
9. Cocomelon – Nursery Rhymes
This famous channel offers a collection of nursery rhymes and Spanish songs perfect for young learners. It also covers lots of animation videos for children and young learners.
10. Little Baby Bum
This channel features a variety of nursery rhymes and songs in Spanish that help kids learn unfamiliar words and phrases.
The show circles around Mia, a young girl, her family, her counterparts, and animal-like characters.
11. KidsTV123
This channel features educational videos and Spanish songs suitable for kids of all ages.
KidsTV123 has plenty of videos for kids, toddlers, and babies covering fundamental elements of the Spanish language.
12. Super Simple Songs – Spanish
This channel features a variety of simple songs and videos in Spanish that are perfect for young learners.
The Spanish YouTube comprises hundreds of videos of original kids’ songs and classic nursery rhymes for young learners.
13. Español con Juan
This YouTube channel features various Spanish-language songs and videos to help learners improve their listening comprehension and vocabulary.
Español con Juan features Juan, a Spanish teacher who offers fun and engaging lessons for all levels of learners. His videos cover grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
14. Super Simple Español
This is a YouTube channel that features various children’s songs in Spanish. These songs are simple and enjoyable, making them perfect for beginners.
15. Spanish Playlist
This YouTube channel features various popular Spanish-language songs, lyrics, and translations. This helps learners understand the meaning of the lyrics.
16. Learn Spanish with Music
This YouTube channel features diverse Spanish video songs to help learners improve their listening comprehension and vocabulary.
17. SpanishPod101
This YouTube channel features various Spanish-language lessons and resources, including music videos and songs.
The SpanishPod101 offers a comprehensive learning program for all levels of Spanish learners. They also have many interactive quizzes to help you improve your language skills through native speakers.
Spanish learning music app
Several apps offer Spanish learning music. Here is a list of some Spanish-learning music apps that you might find helpful, along with a brief overview of each one.
1. Duolingo
Duolingo is a language learning app with a gamified approach to help users learn new languages. It includes a variety of listening and speaking exercises, as well as interactive lessons and quizzes.
The app also has a “Duolingo Radio” feature, a collection of music tracks designed to help users practice their listening skills.
2. Busuu
Busuu is a language learning app that includes a variety of listening, reading, speaking, and writing exercises. It also has a “Conversation Practice” feature, which allows users to have real-time conversations with native speakers.
The app includes music tracks designed to help users practice their listening abilities.
3. Rosetta Stone
Rosetta Stone is a well-known language-learning app that uses an immersive approach to teaching. It includes many listening, speaking, reading, and writing exercises and interactive lessons and quizzes.
The app also includes music recordings to help users practice their listening talents.
4. Babbel
Babbel is a language learning app that includes a variety of listening, writing, speaking, and reading exercises, as well as interactive lessons and quizzes.
It also has a “Conversation Practice” feature, which allows users to have real-time conversations with native speakers. The app also includes music tracks to help users practice their listening skills.
5. iTalki
iTalki is a platform that connects language learners with native-speaking teachers for one-on-one or group lessons. It offers a variety of language learning resources, including listening and speaking exercises.
It also has a “Music Practice” feature, which allows users to practice their listening skills with music tracks.
6. LyricsTraining
This app allows you to learn Spanish through music by filling in the missing lyrics while listening to your favorite songs.
You can practice with relevant content. For example, videos, text, and podcasts for learning Spanish from various sources on the internet. You can access the content anytime from Android, iOS, and the Web.
How to find music to help you learn Spanish?
If you are interested in learning Spanish through music. In that case, there are many unique artists and songs that you might find helpful.
With a bit of experimentation, you should be able to find enjoyable and helpful music for learning the language.
Here are some tips and suggestions to help you find the right music for your Spanish studies.
1. Look for songs with simple, repetitive lyrics
Songs with simple, repetitive lyrics can be constructive for learning new vocabulary and practicing pronunciation.
Listening to easy-to-understand and repetitive lyrics is effortless to follow and memorize. Besides, it is fun to practice and enhance listening and speaking skills.
2. Find songs you enjoy
Finding the music you enjoy is essential, as this will make learning more pleasant and engaging.
The key is to find music that you enjoy and appropriate for your Spanish level.
3. Songs with translations in Spanish and your mother tongue
Having the lyrics in both Spanish and your native language can help you understand the meaning of the words.
This way, you can practice effectively and improve your listening comprehension.
4. Try listening to a variety of different genres
Experiment with different genres of music to see what you enjoy and find most helpful for learning Spanish.
There is a wide variety of Spanish music, including pop, rock, salsa, reggaeton, and broad local types. Experiment with different genres to find the styles of music that you enjoy the most.
5. Start with familiar songs
Choose songs that you already know and enjoy in your native language.
Look up the lyrics in Spanish and try singing along with the Spanish version. This can help you become familiar with the rhythms and sounds of the language.
As you become more familiar with the lyrics, try listening to the songs without looking at the lyrics. This can help you improve your listening comprehension skills and easily understand spoken Spanish.
Final Words on Learning Spanish with Music
Besides TV series and films for learning Spanish, Music is a great way to learn and practice listening comprehension.
You can pay attention to the lyrics and practice singing along with them. This can improve your understanding of spoken Spanish and learning new words and phrases.
The songs help you improve your accents and pronunciation. Focus on how the words are spoken and try to mimic the sounds as closely as possible. Look up any words or terms you don’t understand and try to memorize them.
Learning Spanish takes time and effort, and there are no shortcuts. But incorporating music and songs into your study routine can make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.
¡Buena suerte! (Good luck!)
