The Role of English Rap Hits in the Formation of
Native-Like Pronunciation
Javid Babayev1* , Aygun Asgarova2 , Rubaba Mammadova2 ,
Yegana Babasoy2 , and Hayat Aliyeva2
Abstract. The growing global popularity of English rap music has created new opportunities for language learners to improve their pronunciation and listening skills. This study investigates the role of English rap hits in the formation of native-like pronunciation among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Rap music is characterized by rhythm, rhyme, connected speech, stress patterns, and authentic colloquial expressions, all of which expose learners to natural pronunciation models. The research adopts a qualitative-descriptive methodology based on classroom observation, learner interviews, and analysis of previous studies related to music-assisted language learning. The findings reveal that learners who regularly practice pronunciation through rap songs demonstrate improvements in intonation, fluency, stress placement, and reduced foreign accent interference. Furthermore, rap music increases learner motivation and confidence due to its entertaining and emotionally engaging nature. The study also identifies several challenges, including slang vocabulary, rapid speech tempo, and non-standard grammatical forms frequently present in rap lyrics. Despite these limitations, the research concludes that carefully selected English rap hits can function as effective supplementary tools for pronunciation development when integrated with guided instructional strategies. The article emphasizes that music-based pronunciation practice contributes not only to phonetic accuracy but also to cultural awareness and communicative competence.
Keywords: english rap, pronunciation, EFL learners, native-like speech, music-assisted learning, phonetics