Everyone loves music. Excluding the few outliers and the odd recluse, it's not uncommon to see someone walking around campus with their headphones in, or silently blaring music while studying in the library. Ask any two people what they're listening to, and the answer will seldom be the same because each person has differing tastes and many are stubborn in maintaining them.
How many people can say they frequently branch out and listen to something they normally wouldn't? We all get those, "hey, man, you have to check this out," recommendations, but never open the link our friend sends. Why? Maybe it's the preconceived notions we have about certain music genres or maybe we're turned off based on the artist's dialect, sexuality, language, or even the fact that the album came from a more independent label. Maybe, it's that we never get the chance to break out.
In my experience, some of the best songs are the ones I never thought I'd listen to. And there is so much good music out there that doesn't get mainstream coverage. When the listener does branch out, they may find themselves reaching for their iPhones, downloading song after song, and before they know it, they're a fan.
1. "Young in America" by Danielle Bradberry.
I can't count the number of people who are turned off at the very idea of country music. And while misogyny is very much present in the genre, there is the occasional rare gem that really strikes a chord. This song by the season 4 winner of The Voice has over 1 billion Youtube views, and is the perfect catchy song for those road trips to the beach.
2. "Smile" by Mikky Ekko.
Some of you may or may not have heard this song featured on the trailer for "Paper Towns," the newest movie from John Green, the author of "The Fault in Our Stars." With a soft, indie beat mixed with a rock 'n roll vibe, this song is perfect for that drive home from the beach, when you're watching the sunset and letting your hair flow out behind you.
3. "Lovergirl" byTeena Marie.
How can this song be a song for summer 2015 when it's almost 30 years old? It's easy when 80's music is just so good. This song, featured in the 2010 hit movie "Dirty Girl" is upbeat and fun, perfect for those singing into your hairbrush moments you have in your dorm room.
4. "I Adore U" by Adore Delano.
Remember American Idol contestant Danny Noriega? Well, he's a drag queen now, and recently released an album titled "Till Death Do Us Party," which placed on the Billboard Top 100 list. Every song on this album is a guaranteed party, and "I Adore U" is a fan favorite. Despite it being a breakup song, it's fun to sing along to anytime, day or night.
5. "A Day in the Sun" by Anneliese Van der Pol.
Nothing is better for summer than a blast from our childhoods. Although this may not be the first song that would come to mind, it's always been a favorite from the "That's So Raven Too" soundtrack, and the upbeat rhythm is great background sound for any summer day.
6. "Come" by Namie Amuro.
The first thing I hear when I mention the genre of Japanese pop music is, "How can you listen to music when you can't understand what they're saying?" Nevertheless, I find the genre as a whole to be exciting, especially with all the talented artists within it. While songs of summer tend to be more upbeat -- and this song is definitely more chill -- it's perfect for those relaxing summer nights when you're basking in the moonlight.
7. "Disco Ball" by Sharon Needles.
Another drag queen? Hey, drag is the new mainstream, get all into it. And "Disco Ball" by season four winner of "RuPaul's Drag Race," Sharon Needles is that perfect club track that will definitely take you "on the spin of your life." Also, she has a new album dropping later this summer called "Taxidermy," which is sure to be a hit. Check it out!
8. "Follow Your Arrow" by Kacey Musgraves.
This is sort of cheating, since there is a good chance people have heard of this song. But Musgraves is simultaneously country's most notorious and also best kept secret. Her vibe is very folk, but with the right amount of energy to have mass appeal. All of her songs are amazing, but this song is so upbeat and inspiring, perfect for any summer day.
9. "Top of the World" by Greek Fire.
Fall Out Boy's, "Immortals," is the song associated with Disney's "Big Hero 6," but not many people remember this song that was used in the earlier previews. This song is rock with a bit of pop influence, and a track will (forgive the pun) have you feeling on top of the world.
10. "Vanguard" by Violet Chachki.
There's more to summer than road trips and days at the beach. People go to night clubs too, right? That means dance music, and in my experience, the best dance tracks come straight out of gay bars. This track, "Vanguard," from "RuPaul's Drag Race" season seven winner, Violet Chachki, is upbeat and perfect to dance to on any occasion, even if it's alone in your room.
11. "Knee Deep" by Zac Brown Band feat. Jimmy Buffet.
At it's heart, country music is full of songs about good times. This song just resonates with anyone chilling under the sun, getting a sun tan, feeling the waves lap around their ankles and enjoying a beer. Even though I am far from a Parrot-head, this is one song I thoroughly enjoy during the summer.
12. "A Song to Come Home To" by Jinkx Monsoon.
A summer playlist isn't complete without an emotional ballad, particularly one of the heartbreak variety. Not only is this a good summer song, it's also one of my favorites, from "RuPaul's Drag Race" winner, Jinkx Monsoon. While most of her songs have a Broadway feel to them, this song is full of soft guitar and a calming voice. Not only is it a perfect song of summer, it's a great listen to all year round.
