O present continuous is an English verb tense that indicates an action that is happening at that moment. In grammar, the suffix is used. -ing to state it in a sentence. It's a very common structure in popular songs.
For example, in 'I'm With You', by singer Avril Lavigne, you hear:
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“I’m listening but there’s no sound” (“I am listening, but there is no sound”).
Notice how the sentence is constructed:
I'm listening, but there's no sound: Subject + verb to be + verb of action + ing.
In many songs, it is common for composers to use this tense to describe immediate situations. That's Avril's case in this song and others, as you'll see below.
We separate here 5 songs that can be worked on classroom. In this way, it becomes more playful and interesting for students to see practical examples of how the verb tense is used in everyday life. Let's go?
5 songs to teach present continuous:
Tom's Diner - Suzanne Vega
The song narrates a character who observes several actions happening at the same time in a cafeteria. To describe, she uses and abuses the present continuous.
Things I'll Never Say - Avril Lavigne
In the song, Avril sings that she tries to hold back from spilling her darkest secrets to her beloved. To control herself, she narrates gestures and attitudes she has to control herself. It is one of the most complete songs to teach present continuous.
We Will Rock You - Queen
In this classic rock, Freddie Mercury sings a series of taunts to another person. “You are playing in the street”, “you are kicking cans”, “you are begging with your eyes”. Plate full to teach this verb tense to your students.
Hotel California – Eagles
What exactly the song is about is still a mystery. Some say it's a great metaphor for the darker side of Hollywood and some say it's about drug addiction. The most tragic ones say it talks about death. Regardless of the actual intentions of the composers, the lyrics have some descriptions with present continuous – but there are others with past continuous; it is necessary to explain to the student the difference.
Blinding Lights – The Weeknd
“Blinding Lights” chronicles The Weeknd's adventure on a night of extreme excess. At various times, he uses the present continuous to tell his story. However, the song is not recommended for mature audiences, as it deals with somewhat adult themes, such as drugs and drinks.
Graduated in Social Communication at the Federal University of Goiás. Passionate about digital media, pop culture, technology, politics and psychoanalysis.
