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If you've decided to start learning Basque or to find out about the language, have you thought about doing this through songs? It's one of the best ways to do so quickly and enjoyably.
Basque is a very special language, and you must already have noticed that it's nothing like other languages. We've prepared this list of songs not just to make it easier for you to learn, but also to introduce you to the culture, landscapes and spirit that inspired these songs.
We've also included the places where the artists were born, that they mention in their songs and where the video clips are filmed so that you can make a note of them for your next visit.
This is one of the most listened-to songs in Basque of recent years, with the essence of our mountain villages and our coastline. To the sound of the trikitixa, Aldapan gora (Up the Hill) is inspired by places Mutriku, which appear in its video clip.
Mutriku is a seaside town with two natural swimming pools.
It's not surprising the video clip was filmed here - it's full of hills!
Kai Nakai, born in Vitoria-Gasteiz, has brought new reggaeton in Basque to the music scene with words inspired by her surroundings.
In this song you can easily hear her name the capital of Álava province with her clear pronunciation.
Get a taste of the Bizkaia dialect with this song by Gatibu, one of the best-known bands to emerge from Gernika-Lumo, and Izaro from Mallabia. The two of them team up to give you a sample of how Basque varies from one region to another.
Do you recognise the streets in the video? It's Elantxobe, a seaside town full of hills, steps and narrow streets packed with charm.
This group, formed in Azkoitia, has a simple pronunciation so you're sure to pick up the song straight away. The video clip was filmed on the top of Tabakalera, with one of the best views anywhere in San Sebastián.
Finally, here's a version of the popular Negua joan da ta (Winter is Over), sung by Zea Mays for the txupinazo that kicks off the Semana Grande festivities in Bilbao. These, the biggest festivities in the city, feature a host of bands and music in Basque that you can't miss if you liked this list.
So, are you up for learning Basque now?
It's much easier and enjoyable to do it with songs like these, full of rhythm and to suit all tastes, from pop to reggaeton. And don't forget to make a note of where these musicians are from and the places where the filmed the video clips, to visit them on your next trip - we look forward to seeing you!
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