Learn English with UK Music: BBC Podcast Series My Song, My Home

The BBC Learning English platform has introduced an innovative way to enhance English learning—through music! The newly launched five-part podcast series, My Song, My Home, combines language learning with a journey through the UK’s vibrant musical culture.

Cover Art Of new podcast BBC’s My Song, My Home

Each episode spotlights a unique unsigned musician, delving into their personal stories, music, and the special places that inspire their art. From Cornwall’s serene beaches to London’s bustling streets, this series is more than just an educational tool—it’s a cultural adventure.

Contents hide

1 What Makes My Song, My Home Stand Out?

1.1 Key Features of the Series:

2 Episode Guide: A Journey Across the UK

2.1 Episode 1: Bailey in St Ives, Cornwall

2.2 Episode 2: Josh in London

2.3 Episode 3: Grace in Liverpool

2.4 Episode 4: Alice in Leeds

2.5 Episode 5: Adam in Ipswich

3 Why Music and Language Learning Go Hand in Hand

4 Additional Resources for Learners

5 Start Your Musical Language Journey Today!

What Makes My Song, My Home Stand Out?

This weekly podcast series is designed to help English learners improve their listening skills, expand vocabulary, and better understand grammar—all while enjoying original music performances. Each episode immerses listeners in authentic British English, capturing accents and idiomatic expressions from various regions.

Key Features of the Series:

Local Insights: Discover UK’s regional diversity through the personal stories of musicians.
Musical Performances: Enjoy original songs performed in significant locations across the UK.
Interactive Learning: Access full interview transcripts, glossaries, and worksheets for a deeper understanding.
Multimedia Content: Watch performances and explore song lyrics on the BBC Learning English website.

Episode Guide: A Journey Across the UK

Here’s what you can look forward to in this inspiring series:

Episode 1: Bailey in St Ives, Cornwall

Kick off the series with Bailey on the picturesque beaches of Cornwall. Raised in the artistic town of St Ives, Bailey shares her journey of performing at open mic nights and her aspirations in music. She performs her soulful track, Cobalt Blue, with the sea as her backdrop.

Episode 2: Josh in London

Meet Josh, a dedicated busker who relocated to London to pursue his passion for street performance. On the balcony of the BBC Broadcasting House, Josh delivers his heartfelt song, That Side of the Wall, while sharing what it’s like to thrive as a musician in the capital.

Episode 3: Grace in Liverpool

Travel to Liverpool’s University campus to hear the inspiring story of Grace, a blind pianist who fell in love with music at a young age. Her moving performance of Perplexed, set among the bookshelves of the university library, reflects her unique connection to music.

Episode 4: Alice in Leeds

Explore Leeds, a hidden gem for musicians, with Alice. She opens up about her decision to move to the city and its supportive music scene. Performing her heartfelt track, Okay, by the canal, Alice’s story showcases Leeds as a hub for emerging talent.

Episode 5: Adam in Ipswich

The final episode features Adam in Ipswich, a town renowned as the home of singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. Adam’s journey into full-time music was sparked by a personal tragedy. He performs his poignant song, Missing Chemicals, in front of the iconic town hall.

Why Music and Language Learning Go Hand in Hand

Paul Scott, Editor of BBC Learning English, highlights the role of music in language acquisition:

“Songs can help develop essential skills for language learners—widening vocabulary, understanding grammar, and retaining words and phrases more easily. Plus, music makes learning enjoyable!”

My Song, My Home not only fosters English skills but also immerses learners in the rich cultural fabric of the UK.

Additional Resources for Learners

Listeners can supplement their learning with a wealth of resources available on the BBC Learning English website. These include:

Full transcripts of musician interviews.
Song lyrics and glossaries for improved understanding.
Worksheets to practice new vocabulary and grammar concepts.

Start Your Musical Language Journey Today!

The series premieres today, with the first episode featuring Bailey in St Ives now available. Access the podcast on your favorite platform or explore the multimedia content on the BBC Learning English website: bbc.com/learningenglish.