The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SHANTIES
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
S
H
A
N
T
I
E
S
More clues leading to the result SHANTIES
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "songs" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case songs = shanties.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SHANTIES mean?
SHANTIES noun- A roughly-built hut or cabin.
- A rudimentary or improvised dwelling, especially one not legally owned.
- An unlicensed pub.
- A song a sailor sings, especially in rhythm to his work.