Describe An Interesting Song: IELTS Cue Card

Describe An Interesting Song

The Cue Card is one of the most interesting and difficult problems in the IELTS speaking test. You have up to two minutes to speak clearly and eloquently about a specific subject. You must adhere to a sequence and structure for your response if you want to succeed in this challenge. In this article, we'll take you through the steps of describing intriguing music while keeping in mind the English language's competency and clarity. And remember, you can always reach out to Horse's Mouth to fine-tune your language skills with a personal mentor or get guidance on the IELTS test.

1. Introduce the Song:

Begin your answer by introducing the song you've chosen. For this example, let's take the classic song "Hey Jude" by The Beatles. Mention the title, artist, and any other relevant background information. This establishes a clear starting point for your response.

2. Provide a Brief Overview:

Next, give a concise summary of the song. This should be a bird's eye view of what the song is about, its genre, and any notable themes.

3. Describe the Lyrics:

Now, delve into the song's lyrics. Choose a few verses or words that stand out to you as particularly fascinating or important. Justify your interest in these lyrics. Adjectives can help you describe something with vivid images.

4. Discuss the Music:

Shift your focus to the musical aspects of the song. Describe the instrumentation, tempo, and any unique musical elements that stand out to you. Use adjectives to convey your emotional response to the music.

5. Personal Connection:

Describe your own connection to the song. Why is this song fascinating to you? It might bring up certain memories or arouse certain feelings in you.

6. Cultural Significance:

Finally, discuss any cultural or historical significance the song may have had that makes it relevant to this day.

Sample

I'd like to talk about the song "Hey Jude" by The Beatles. It's an iconic song that was released in 1968 and quickly became one of the most beloved tracks in the history of rock music.

"Hey Jude" is a timeless classic in the rock genre, known for its emotional lyrics and captivating melody. It's a song that conveys a message of support and comfort during difficult times.

One of the most captivating lines in the song is 'And anytime you feel the pain, hey Jude, refrain, don't carry the world upon your shoulders.' These words are so powerful because they offer a message of solace and encouragement to the listener. They tell us not to bear the weight of the world alone, and it's a sentiment that resonates with people in various situations.

The music in "Hey Jude" is equally compelling. The song starts with a simple piano melody, and as it progresses, it builds up with the inclusion of violins and a choir. The tempo gradually increases, creating a sense of hope and upliftment that mirrors the lyrics.

For me, "Hey Jude"is a song that brings back memories of my childhood. I remember my parents playing it during family road trips, and it always brought a sense of togetherness. Even today, when I listen to it, I'm reminded of the importance of supporting each other through life's ups and downs.

In the 1960s, “Hey Jude” was not just a hit song; it was a cultural phenomenon. It played a pivotal role in the counterculture movement and became an anthem of hope during a turbulent era. Its enduring popularity and universal message make it a song that transcends generations.

"Hey Jude" is an incredibly interesting song, not only for its musical brilliance but also for the heartfelt backstory behind it. It has a unique ability to touch the hearts of listeners, offering solace in difficult times and reminding us of the enduring power of music.

Conclusion

Describing a catchy song requires you to demonstrate not just your command of the language but also your capacity to understand and communicate the emotional depth of a song. It enables you to interact and communicate successfully with people from various backgrounds, making this ability extremely useful while studying abroad.

And if you ever find yourself needing assistance in perfecting your language skills or preparing for the IELTS test, don't hesitate to reach out to Horse's Mouth. If you wish to hear the personal experience of a current student/alumnus over a FREE one-on-one call, check out these profiles on Horse’s Mouth.