Sample IELTS Speaking Part 2, 3: Describe a song you like

"Describe a good piece of music," "Describe an interesting song you like," or "Describe a song you like" frequently emerges as a popular topic in actual Speaking exams. In the subsequent article, PREP outlines the structure, provides a sample response, and introduces helpful vocabulary for this topic. Consult the article on "Describe a song you like" to efficiently hone your Speaking abilities from the comfort of your home!

I. Sample IELTS Speaking Part 2, 3: Describe a song you like

1. Cue card: Describe a song you like

Describe a song you like (Describe a piece of music you like). You should say: 

• What it is?
• Which country the song comes from?
• What story the song tells?

And explain why you think it is interesting?

2. Part 2 Outline

2.1. Sample idea

• The topic "Describe a song you like" requires candidates to describe an interesting song, providing the following information: 
  • What is the song?
  • Where does the song originate from?
  • What story does the song tell?
  • Explain why you find the song interesting.
• The topic "Describe a song you like" falls under the larger theme of Favorites. To effectively address this topic, the easiest and most efficient way is to closely follow the cues provided in the prompt and provide clear information, avoiding generalizations.
• For the first question, "What is the song?" This question is generally easy to answer because we have all heard many songs. All you need to do is choose a song that you find interesting and feel confident to share it with examiners.
• Next, we need to delve into more detail with the second question, "Where does the song originate from?" In this question, we can provide additional information about the song's creation. We may not need to directly answer the country of origin, but we can indirectly share information about the song's composition and performance by the singer or band from a particular country. It can also be helpful to mention the song's popularity.
• Continuing from this point, you can answer the third question, "What story does the song tell?" In this aspect, we don't need to go too deep into the details of the song but rather provide a concise summary of the content in 2-3 sentences.
• Lastly, and most importantly, in the "Describe a song you like" prompt, we need to explain why we find the song interesting. Candidates should allocate more time to this question because it is the main content of the "Describe a song you like" prompt. To answer this question clearly, coherently, and with the required emphasis, you should present clear arguments, while incorporating language that expresses your personal opinions and emotions about the song.

2.2. One-minute note taking

3. Sample Speaking “Describe a song you like”

Below is a sample IELTS Speaking Part 2 topic "Describe a song you like" compiled by top-tier teachers at prepedu.com. Refer to it now to effectively practice IELTS Speaking at home!

I honestly don’t have my favorite genre as my playlist includes all kinds of music. But if you want me to pick a song that I like the most, it would definitely be Bohemian Rhapsody.

Coming across the song while watching the movie of the same title in 2018, I was in love with it the moment when the first note was hit. The song was composed by Freddie Mercury and performed by the legendary Queen, a world-renowned UK rock band back in the 1970s. It became a global phenomenon right after its release, dominating every single music chart at that time. 

Until now, there hasn’t been an exact explanation of the meaning of the song, even from the band itself. But, rumor has it that it was Freddie’s confession - his coming out story. It was probably about how different his life could have been, and how much happier he might have been, had he just been able to be himself. 

The thing that strikes me the most about this iconic hit is Freddy’s genius composing skill. Lots of cultural and historical elements are included in the song, yet they were incorporated so well for us to understand Freddy’s train of thought when writing the song.

Besides, what gets me hooked on this 6-minute-long piece also lies in the musical techniques showcased. The song is such a masterpiece of imagination with a great command of musical styles, ranging from Rock, Ballad to Acapella. It is so intricate and has so many layers of complexity that nobody can ever expect. Every verse in Bohemian Rhapsody brings a different type of feeling and listening to it is like discovering the art of music at its finest. 

Almost 50 years have passed since the release of Bohemian Rhapsody, it still remains one of the greatest hits and my all-time favorite.

Note: You can also apply this sample to other topics such as: Describe a song that you think is interesting, Describe an interesting song you like, Describe a song or a piece of music you like, Describe a song you like to listen to, Talk about your favorite song,....

Some useful vocabulary used in the sample IELTS Speaking Part 2 topic "Describe a song you like": 

• Genre (noun): a category or style of music
• Hit the first note (phrase): to start singing the first note
• Compose (verb): to create or write a piece of music
• World-renowned (adj.): famous worldwide
• Global phenomenon (adj.): a widespread and popular occurrence
• Dominate the chart (phrase): to consistently be at the top of the music charts
• Rumour has it (idiom): there is a rumor that
• Iconic (adj.): highly representative or symbolic
• Train of thought (idiom): a sequence of thoughts in someone's mind
• Hooked (adj.): extremely interested or captivated by something
• Showcase (verb): to display or present something in an impressive way
• Masterpiece (noun): an outstanding piece of work or creation
• Intricate (adj.): complex or detailed
• At its finest (phrase): in its best state or quality
• All-time favorite (phrase): something that is extremely favored or loved

Please refer to the following article:

• Sample Speaking Part 2: Describe a time when someone apologized to you
• Sample IELTS Speaking Part 1, 2, 3: Describe your mother
• Sample IELTS Speaking Part 2, 3: Talk about your dream job

II. Sample answers for IELTS Speaking Part 3: Describe a song you like

1. Do people nowadays like same music as the people in the past ?

Well yes, I genuinely think so. Along with the evolution of music, people’s preferences for music have altered as well. In the past, music lovers used to jam to disco-country songs that they can vibe with anywhere and dance with one another at any gathering. However, in this day and age, they tend to opt for music with catchy tunes and electronic elements like auto-tune that can easily become viral on social platforms. 

• Evolution (noun): the process of development or change over time
• Preference for something (phrase): a liking or priority for something
• Alter (verb): to change or modify
• Jam to (phrase): to greatly enjoy what one is listening to
• Vibe with (phrase): to resonate or connect with
• Gathering (noun): a social gathering or event
• In this day and age (idiom): in the current era or time period
• Opt for (phrase): to choose or select

2. Is there any difference between liking of music between different age group?

Of course. It is obvious that humans at different ages seem to have different tastes in music. Kids would definitely be fond of entertaining music, which is fun and easy to absorb. For teens, coming of age definitely exerts a strong influence on their music preferences as well since their playlist often circles around first love and rebellious songs, which are their main concerns.

When it comes to adults and the elderly, with more life experiences, they have a more diverse music taste. Other than vibing with classic love songs and sometimes reliving the songs of their teens, they also tend to be immersed in mild and soothing instrumental music.  

• Fond of (phrase): having a strong liking or affection for something
• Coming of age (idiom): reaching the age of maturity or adulthood
• Circle around (phrase): revolve or center around
• When it comes to (idiom): when discussing or considering
• Be immersed in (phrase): deeply involved or engrossed in
• Instrumental music (phrase): music without vocals, typically featuring only instruments

3. What is the impact of technology on music?

Nowadays, technology undeniably plays a crucial role in music, in terms of improved production and accessibility. To begin with, it has facilitated the process of making music with a variety of technological advances, from the instruments right to the recording phase, which makes the final outcome more exotic and also saves a lot of time for producers.

Besides, gone are the days when one had to rush to a music shop to purchase his favorite songs. It has never been easier for consumers to access music since there are currently a lot of online platforms that allow users to buy music at a click of a button. 

• Accessibility (noun): the ability to access or approach something
• Facilitate (verb): to make something easier or more convenient
• Exotic (adjective): unique or unusual, often associated with foreign or unfamiliar things
• Gone are the days (idiom): the time has passed when...
• At a click of a button (idiom): very easily and quickly, with just one click

4. Which music is better, traditional music or modern music?

Well, from my perspective, despite the ubiquity of modern music, more emphasis should be placed on traditional music. Contemporary songs are admittedly memorable with catchy melodies and viral lyrics, yet they are usually produced for only commercial purposes. In the meantime, folk music often expresses the culture, customs, and history of a country.

Listening to this kind of music will provide us with a comprehensive understanding of our country’s cultural and historical values, thus helping us nurture our pride in our country and raise awareness about preserving these national treasures. 

• Ubiquity (noun): the state of being present or found everywhere
• Place emphasis on (phrase): to give importance or focus to something
• Folk music (phrase): traditional or indigenous music of a particular region or culture
• Comprehensive (adjective): complete or inclusive, covering a wide range or scope
• National treasure (phrase): a valuable or significant cultural artifact or symbol of a nation

5. Do you think foreign music have got any impact on the cultural or traditional music?

Yes, I personally do think so. To some extent, international music has exerted a fairly negative influence on traditional music. Specifically, global hits, which often have upbeat music and viral elements, are ubiquitous and dominate almost all current music charts. This has led to the saddening situation that very few individuals care about the existence of folk music, thus becoming less aware of the beautiful cultural features and historical values of their own country.  

• To some extent (phrase): to a certain degree or extent
• Exert an influence on (phrase): to have an impact or influence on something
• Upbeat music (phrase): fast-paced and lively music
• Viral elements (phrase): elements or aspects that have a high tendency to spread widely
• Ubiquitous (adjective): being present or found everywhere
• Saddening (adjective): causing sadness or sorrow

This article has provided the sample IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3 topic "Describe a song you like." Wish you effective preparation and success in achieving a high band score in your upcoming real exam!