What is the ruling on listening to music and songs?

Some kinds of songs and music are permissible to hear and some are not. This is because singing is a form of speech: its good is commendable and its bad is offensive.

Patriotic and religious songs, as well as music that brings joy during feasts and special occasions, are permissible. Performances should avoid mixing between men and women, and the singing and lyrics must steer clear of vulgar language or indecent behavior. They should also avoid anything that could provoke desire or lust. Furthermore, songs and music should not be paired with anything prohibited such as alcohol, and the meanings they convey must be pure and respectable.

Prohibited music and songs distract from the remembrance of Allah Almighty and contain reprehensible or forbidden elements. This includes music or lyrics that stir desire and lust, are accompanied by gender mixing, or feature a singer’s voice that is effeminate or seductive, in a way that arouses improper desires or influences behavior, thereby corrupting life and moral values.

And Allah Almighty knows best.