As the days get longer and begin to heat up, it’s time to refresh your playlist. Whether you’re driving with the windows down, tanning by the pool, or running barefoot in the sand, the perfect mix of summery songs is essential.
So, we, Natalie Abdon and Stella Taylor, created the ultimate summer playlist with songs that are non-negotiable to listen to .
We had to start off with a classic: “Three Little Birds” by Bob Marley.
The main reason we chose this song is because of the lyrics and reggae style. The phrase, “singing don’t worry about a thing, ‘cause every little thing gonna be alright’” is repeated several times throughout the song. Bob Marley’s voice adds a calming and reassuring voice to the lyrics. Like previously mentioned, this song is reggae which is associated with summer because of its laid back and unique rhythm. The genre is forever linked to summer for evoking feelings like hopefulness and carefreeness.
Next, we chose “Surfin USA” by the Beach Boys.
The song describes California’s surf culture with lyrics like,”If everybody had an ocean across the USA, then everybody’d be surfin’” Released in 1963 during the peak of California’s surf culture, it has a lively beat, caused by staccato drums, which makes it lively for summer.
This one adds a dreamy aspect to the playlist: “Going to California” by the band Led Zeppelin.
“It is a song dedicated to the days when things were really nice and simple.” Lead Singer, Rober Plant, once told the crowd. When people think of summer, they think of things like travel and exploration, which this song perfectly captures.
Summer wouldn’t be complete without the timeless song “Hotel California” by the Eagles.
Known for its haunting lyrics and unforgettable guitar solo, it really does make you feel like you’re on a “dark desert highway.” Its genre and mood make it a perfect pick for those hot summer nights.
“Ride” by Lana Del Rey is our next pick for many reasons. It’s not a song explicitly for summer, however, it’s a nostalgic song that references things like freedom and carefreeness.
Summer is often associated with hopefulness for obvious reasons like no school and perfect weather. The music video also adds imagery to the summer theme with the sun shining, motorcycles, and the desert setting.
“Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac is a perfect emotional addition to anybody’s summer playlist.
Written by Lindsey Buckingham as a response to his breakup with band member Stevie Nicks, this song combines raw emotions and a catchy beat, making it fun to sing along to.
“Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears is a song that will never be forgotten.
It’s been used countless times in movies and TV, the most notable being Despicable Me 4 and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. It has a nostalgic feel that almost everybody can sing along to.
“We The People” by Empire of the Sun has a unique sound to it that’s perfect for summer. It’s electro/synth pop and has a feel good vibe to it.
The vocals give the song a happy energy that fits perfectly with summer. This song is perfect for those sunny days spent dancing or hanging out with friends. This is the kind of track that instantly lifts your mood.
“Island In The Sun” by Weezer is the definition of a laid back summer song.
Unlike many summer songs it’s calm and steady, instead of loud and tense. The lyrics talk about a place where people can go to relax and be happy–and really isn’t that what summer is all about?
To close it out, we chose “Kids” by the band MGMT.
This song is on every summer playlist for a reason: it’s unique sound. The song feels like you’re reminiscing on a summer filled with laughter, friends, and unforgettable memories.
