How music facilitates second language (L2) learning: a systematic review from 2002 to 2022

Background: Applying music to learners’ language learning/acquisition has a long research history. However, given that second language (L2) learning/acquisition is a complex process, the studies regarding applying music to L2 learning/acquisition are comparatively fragmented.Objectives: This review work analysed 87 articles that applied music to L2 learning/acquisition, or studied the relationships between music and L2 learning/acquisition. The focus of the research was to determine the correlation between music and L2 learning/acquisition and explore effective ways of applying music to facilitating the process of L2 learning/acquisition.Methods: Literature review.Results and conclusion: For RQ1, most of the studies reported that music is positively correlated with learners’ L2 learning/acquisition/development/gains although some of them delivered the conclusion without solid statistical evidence. For RQ2, it can be concluded that the use of music in L2 learning yields benefits in at least 6 facets: (1) Promoting L2 learning via providing extra cognitive value; (2) Enhancing learners’ L2 knowledge; (3) Improving learners’ language skills; (4) Delivering and strengthening L2 culture; (5) Facilitating L2 teaching via using music as a component of a compound L2 pedagogical method; (6) Altering the plasticity of brain functions and networks responsible for L2 processing. Finally, controversies and implications were also discussed to provide guidance for the effective application of music in L2 learning.