YES Newsletter!
Issue 13/ August 2025
Dear Staff and Students
,
As we come to the final month of summer,
we hope this email finds you well and enjoying the last rays of sunshine! 
There is nothing better than listening to some good tunes while you’re going for a walk in the park, a picnic at the beach, sunbathing by the pool, or just having a barbecue with friends or family.
This month, we will be exploring some popular and loved British tracks to help you enjoy the summer vibes and improve your vocabulary along the way. 
Let’s enjoy a marvelous month of music together! 
Plus, don’t miss our write-in question to share some popular songs from your home country!
Let’s go!
Student Graduation!
Congratulations to Jaber, who graduated from his Beginner English Course with his teacher, Lynda, last month
He made a lasting impression on all of us at YES, although he was only here for a short time.
We wish him all the best for the future.
Well done, Jaber!
British Music: Through the Decades 
Music is also a great way to learn some new words or phrases in any language you are learning, and the same is true for English.
This month, our wonderful staff have voted on this list of our favourite British songs by the decade- to help you not only learn a bit more British music and enjoy these summer moments, but also expand your vocabulary as you go!
Here are some popular British songs which we recommend giving a listen:
60s
The Beatles were one of the first and most famous British rock and roll bands in the 1960s. “Get Back” was first released in 1969, and the song features a blend of rock and blues elements. It is notable for its catchy melody and the message of returning to one’s roots, reflecting on themes of returning home and reconnecting with where you come from.
70s
| ‘Bohemian Rhapsody‘- Queen Queen is a British rock band with a fusion of heavy metal, glam rock, and stage theatrics, all of which made it one of the most popular groups of the 1970s. “Bohemian Rhapsody” was written by the band’s most famous member, Freddie Mercury, and was released in 1975 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, A Night at the Opera. It is considered a groundbreaking song, known for its unique structure and blend of rock and opera elements, making it one of the greatest songs of all time. |
80s
‘Tunnel of Love‘- Dire Straits
Dire Straits was a British rock band active between the late 70s and mid-90s. Their song “Tunnel of Love” first appeared on their 1980 album Making Movies, and was also featured in the 1982 film An Officer and a Gentleman. The song is believed to be about a fleeting romance, with references to the Spanish City amusement park in Newcastle. The lyrics describe the excitement, danger and mystery of the “tunnel of love” ride.
90s
‘Zombie‘- The Cranberries
The Cranberries are an alternative rock band from Ireland, and the song “Zombie” was released in 1994 as the lead single from the Cranberries’ second studio album, No Need to Argue. It is a protest song about the young victims of a bombing in Warrington, England, during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. “Zombie” has been widely described as “a masterpiece of alternative rock”, with grunge influences, such as distorted guitar and shouted vocals.
2000s
‘Back to Black‘- Amy Winehouse
Amy Winehouse was an English singer-songwriter who quickly became famous with her multiple Grammy Award-winning album Back to Black (2006). She had a troubled life and sadly died at the age of 29. ‘Back to Black‘ is the album’s title track, and talks about heartbreak and feelings after a break-up. The song explores elements of old school soul music. Its sound and beat have been described as similar to girl groups from the 1960s.
Music Events in Huddersfield
On The Hill Festival 2025
Place: Huddersfield Laund Hill Community Club
Date: Saturday, 23rd August 2025
Time: 3 pm to 12 am
This year, the festival is set to be bigger and better than ever—hosted in a spectacular big top tent, so the fun keeps going rain or shine! Perfect for all ages, this family-friendly event features an exciting lineup of talented bands and performers playing all your favourite songs—sing along and dance to the hits you know and love.
Gather your friends and family, and join us On The Hill under the big top for a day of good vibes, great tunes, and family fun. You can see more information about this event here.
Film Suggestion of the Month
August Rush (2007)
Lyla and Louis, a singer and a musician, fall in love but are soon forced to separate. Lyla gives up her newborn son to an orphanage, and unknown to her, he grows up to become a musical genius. An inspiring story about love, hope, music, and following your dreams!
Language Learning Tips:
For Lower Levels: Watch with English audio, and subtitles in your 1st language.
For Higher Levels: Watch in English, with English subtitles.
