We all have those songs that are perfect for summer and a part of our summer rotation. Whether you’re traveling, relaxing on a beach or on a sunny Summer drive we’ve asked our staff to put together the perfect playlist for your Summer needs. Read our staff’s picks for our Summer playlist, and listen along on Spotify, below:
“Warm Glow” – Hippo Campus
When the sun sets on a warm summer day, there’s nothing like a great companion track, playing from the bluetooth speaker beside your hammock. Minnesotan band indie band, Hippo Campus, created that exact track. “Warm Glow” fills your ears with soft guitars, slowly building speed as the sun moves closer to the horizon line. Perfect for a day out with friends, a cruise on the lake after a fun-filled day or even the soundtrack to your marshmallow roasting over the campfire, “Warm Glow” is the perfect soundtrack. – Addie Whelan, Editor In Chief
“The Less I Know The Better” – Tame Impala
To me, this song has always been very reminiscent of summer. I think the entirety of Currents has a great summer feel to it, but there’s something about the tone of this song that just makes it feel like the ultimate laid-back summer song. The funky bass line gives it a nice rhythm that’s perfect for driving with the windows down or adding it to your 4th of July Barbecue playlist. The beauty of the song is that it’s an easy listen, and its mellow demeanor is perfect for hot summer nights. – Gina Scarpino, Photo Editor
“Sugar” – Maroon 5
This song is a bit of a throwback, having been released in 2015, but it never ceases to put me in a fun, summery mood. With great hooks and catchy lyrics, it’s no surprise why this track should be at the top of your summer playlist. Maroon 5 is a band that almost everyone can agree on, so no matter who is tagging along for your road trip adventures this summer, it will be sure to be a crowd pleaser. -Lauren Klonowski, Deputy Editor
“Paris” – Magic Man
This may be a little too on the nose following my recent Paris trip, but the trip did remind me of the summertime magic that is Magic Man’s discography. It’s a song I wouldn’t stop singing for the weeks leading up to the trip, and their album Before the Waves had me acting like a tourist dancing my way through the Paris subway. Even if you’re not frequenting european cafes, this song and album needs to make its way onto your summer playlist and remind you how much you missed the great indie pop band that was Magic Man. – Joe Hernandez, Digital Assistant
“Truth Hurts” – Lizzo
Yes, this song is actually a couple years old, but that doesn’t make it any less great! I think it’s the perfect blend of empowering and catchy… definitely a girl power, feeling yourself type of song, which is absolutely perfect for summer time. I first heard Lizzo years back, but had not listened to her extensively until after hearing this song and she is a goddess! – Bernadette, Contributing Photographer
“It’s Not Living (If It’s Not With You)” – The 1975
I have loved this song since the album came out late last year. It’s a very catchy song but a complicated one. True to The 1975, the song sounds happy but really talks about heartbreak and lovesickness. Nonetheless, it has been one of my go-to songs this spring and I am sure will be this summer. I urge you to listen to it even if you aren’t a fan of The 1975 because this is their closest to a pop anthem! – Alyssa Buzzello, Senior Contributing Photographer
“Weekend Friend” – Goth Babe
To most, a name like Goth Babe would typically be coupled with the music of an edgy teenager, but “Weekend Friend” proves listeners otherwise. Griffin Washburn, aka Goth Babe, makes music out of his camper van as he travels across the country with his dog Sadie. The upbeat instrumental partnered with Washburn’s airy vocals create a song that is tailored perfectly for a summer trip. – Quinn Beaupré, Contributing Photographer
“Senorita” – Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello
This song gives off major summer vibes. With two of the hottests artists in the industry right now, it’s the perfect pairing for a perfect summer song. The simple yet vibrant acoustic guitar instrumental together with Shawn and Camila’s harmonious voices that take you away to imagine yourself on the most exhilarating trip through the streets of Cuban Miami. – Ivy Sandoval, Contributing Writer
“The Cure” – YONAKA
YONAKA have been one of m go to bands for a while now, but this new record has fully blown me out of the water. This song has everything you want out of a summer jam, it’s catchy and has a great beat to dance to. It’s also a very relatable song for anybody who’s ever been infatuated by a new person, even when they don’t necessarily want to be. – Sara Feigin, Photographer/Writer
“Sunflower” – Post Malone and Swae Lee
You can’t help but start to dance when this song comes on. Imagine a late summer night dancing with somebody you love to this song. This song embodies a feel good summertime experience. We’re all sunflowers. – Nicolita Bradley, Contributing Photographer
“The Strut”- 30/70
Imagine you are walking down the streets of your crowded city, in the heat of the summer; with friends that you love dearly, sipping on lemonade. The Strut is the song you are going to want to vibe too all summer long during moments like those. Although released in 2015, this song still feels fresh and embodies the energy and persona of a summer stroll. To the casual jazzy melodies to the soulful yet relaxed vocals, this song is going to be on replay all summer long. – Morgan Jones, Contributing Photographer/Writer.
“BlackBerry Delorean” – The Callous Daoboys
Nothing says “Summer Time” like some new heat from Hot-Lanta’s newest hit band, The Callous Daoboys. With energy living up to the likes of The Chariot, this song is certainly my go to for any summer time, high adrenaline activities. Fresh off the press, this hit from the band’s newest release, Die On Mars which came out on June 21st! With this mathy – metalcore hit, a good time is impossible to miss. – Stone Fenk, Contributing Photographer
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