Learning Portuguese Through Music

When I started learning Portuguese this summer, I discovered one of the most enjoyable ways to practice pronunciation and vocabulary: listening to music and reading along with the lyrics. It all began when I heard the lively beats and melodies playing while the Brazilian crew framed my house during a renovation.

Their music became the soundtrack to those chaotic days, drawing me in with its infectious rhythms. The more I immersed myself, the more I understood, and before long, I found myself singing along—albeit a little off-key. Here are some of the first songs that made it onto my Portuguese playlist:

Lexa and Soley – "Mania"

One of the first songs I stumbled upon was "Mania" by Brazilian pop sensations Lexa and Soley. This high-energy track, with its infectious beats and catchy lyrics, invites you to sing along and move to the rhythm. While the quick tempo is a fun challenge, it’s an instant mood booster that’s impossible to resist.

Anitta – "Lugar Perfeito" and "Me Gusta"

Anitta is a Brazilian powerhouse whose vibrant energy and dynamic music make her unforgettable. Effortlessly blending pop, funk carioca, Latin pop, and reggaeton, she’s a true international icon, singing in Portuguese, Spanish, English, Italian, and French. Her upbeat "Lugar Perfeito" is a joy to sing along with, while the electrifying "Me Gusta" (featuring Cardi B and Myke Towers) showcases her genre-blending artistry.

Mayra Andrade – "Afeto"

Mayra Andrade’s velvety voice and Cape Verdean rhythms make her a standout in world music. Her soulful track "Afeto" is mesmerizing, with captivating vocals and a guitar solo at the end that I adore. For a different vibe, the Ankhoi remix transforms the song into an electrifying, club-ready dance track. While my clubbing days are behind me (I’m 60, after all), I’ll happily dance to this in the privacy of my home.

O Rappa – "Minha Alma"

Hailing from Rio de Janeiro, O Rappa is a Brazilian reggae band known for their eclectic sound that blends rock, reggae, funk, hip-hop, and samba. Their track "Minha Alma" stands out with its soulful vibe and unique fusion of styles, creating a captivating listening experience that showcases their creative depth.

Amani Kush and Natiruts

Amani Kush has mastered the art of blending the timeless essence of classic reggae with the deep, rich vibrations of Roots Reggae. His soulful vocals and infectious rhythms invite you to dance and lose yourself in the music. Similarly, Natiruts, a Brazilian reggae band formed in 1996, brings a dynamic mix of traditional reggae, rock, funk, and dancehall to the table. Their innovative sound has made them a beloved name in Brazilian music.

Chico Buarque – "Construção"

Chico Buarque, a towering figure in Brazilian music and culture, is celebrated for his masterful songwriting and poignant lyrics. His iconic track "Construção" is a powerful critique of societal inequities and the human cost of progress. It’s a stunning example of how Buarque blends poetic storytelling with social commentary, cementing his legacy as a musical poet and voice for the people.

Blasting Beats, Learning Words

Listening to my tunes on Apple Music while reading along with the lyrics has been a game-changer for my Portuguese learning journey. It’s given me the confidence to try singing along—even if I still stumble over words and phrases. Watching music videos with lyrics or turning on closed captions on YouTube has also been incredibly helpful. There’s something about seeing the words paired with the rhythm that makes it all click.

I can’t help but laugh at myself sometimes—blasting music by these young artists, singing, and dancing around the house like a teenager. But honestly, it’s been so much fun and a relief during the chaos of our home renovation, and I’ve found myself hitting “repeat” more times than I’d like to admit!

Now, I need your help!

What are your favorite songs sung in Portuguese? I’m looking for more music recommendations to expand my playlist and keep learning. Drop your suggestions in the comments—I’d love to hear what inspires you!

Stay tuned, too, because I plan to write a similar article sharing my favorite Spanish and French songs that have been helping me along my language-learning journey. Until then, I’ll be here, dancing and singing along to the vibrant sounds of Portuguese music. Let’s keep learning together!

All artwork by the author, Xine Segalas, rendered on NightCafe