There’s nothing quite like embracing your skin with the sun’s warm rays while blessing your ears with even warmer music. Summer should consist of feeling free and happy, and what better way to do so than through feel-good rhythm and lyrics? Here are a few recommendations for your summer playlist.
1. “Golden” by Harry Styles
Nothing shines brighter than gold – well maybe this incredible song. Its combination of happy, energy filled and slow, sweet verses are something to admire. Although slightly overplayed, another Harry Styles honorable mention is “Watermelon Sugar”.
2. “Mona Lisa” by Dominic Flike
“Mona Lisa” is a passionate comparison between one’s love for their significant other and the enigmatic nature of the Mona Lisa painting. Both are captivating, attention gripping and simply breathtaking. Overall, this song encapsulates the euphoric feelings of love and joy.
3. “Surfin’ Safari” by The Beach Boys
Chances are, you’ve heard this song before. It is a classic, light-hearted tune that can’t help but make you dance along. It references southern California surfing locations and has been a classic sing-a-long summer hit.
4. “Happy Place (feat. Hanna Ashbrook)” by Oh, Hush!
For many, a happy place may be a physical location or feeling: maybe a cozy bedroom or time spent with friends. For others, it’s the time period from June to September. Transport to your happy place this summer with this song.
5. “90’s Country” by Walker Hayes
An underrated country treasure is none other than this song by Walker Hayes. Not many know about this country singer; he lives in Tennessee with his wife and six children, and has been making music since 2010. His music touches on love, family, positivity and the South – and “90’s Country” is no exception.
6. “Sugar” by Remi Wolf
This song is everything about summer and more. It’s undoubtedly a feel-good, possibly a feel-great. The sweetness of summer is put into musical format with this single by Remi Wolf. Indie-style music is often overlooked, but as summer approaches, this genre is sure to rise to attention.
7. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
An oldie, but a goodie. If summer had a theme song, this would be it. Forget your troubles because “Here comes the sun, and I say, it’s alright.” After a cold, lonely winter, the sun is here to defrost and reunite the world.
8. “Cowgirls” (feat. ERNEST) by Morgan Wallen
Another summer-worthy country tune “Cowgirls”. This song reminds me of barbecues and late nights that seem to never end. The eternal spirit of a cowgirl is carried through this song and inspires listeners to set souls free and live for the present.
9. “ROCKET” by Doechii
Doechii has recently risen to popularity with her unique style and personal anecdotes in her music. “ROCKET” is no exception, and serves as an overall fun-filled summer song. The rapper’s music never fails to excite listeners and leave them wanting more.
10. “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
Marking Billboard Hot 100’s number seven song the week of April 27, 2024, “Espresso” is Carpenter’s first single to make it in the top ten. The song’s energy practically radiates through listeners’ ears, as proven by its ranking.
11. “Die Young” by Kesha
This electrifying beat creates a carefree experience of pure fun. “Die Young” reminds us to live in the moment, let go of your worries and dance all night. Every moment is worth remembering, so take on life daringly, and never look back.
12. “Paper Planes” by M.I.A
You may have heard it in the 2008 eight-time Academy Award winning film “Slumdog Millionaire”. It embraces chaos and freedom, which is exactly what’s needed after the demanding schedules of the school year.
Whether you may listen to these songs on beaches or in backyards, on plane rides or bike rides, feel free to turn up the volume and sing along. This warm, freeing weather doesn’t last forever, so take advantage of every second and listen to some great music!
