Aaah, summertime. The weather is warm, school is out and it's finally that time of year again to blast music in your car with your windows rolled down. If you're anything like me, you're constantly looking for new songs to add to your Spotify playlist. But sometimes the best bands are the ones that aren't exactly from this generation. Sure, current music is great and all, but it's not possible to listen to today's popular artists without listening to the older artists and musicians that inspired them. Here's 15 musical artists that you absolutely need to add to your car playlist!
15. The Doors
This American rock band from the mid-60s is one of the more underrated groups on this list. This rock band incorporates jazz, blues, and pop into their work, and their songs are perfect for lazy summer afternoons. Songs such as "People Are Strange," "Light My Fire" and "Riders On the Storm" are some of their most popular ones.
14. The Smiths
With Morrissey's unique vocals and 1960s rock influences, The Smiths are one of the most influential alternative rock bands to come out England. Their songs capture so much emotion, and songs like "How Soon is Now?" and "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" are best suited for relaxing summer evenings with friends.
13. Grateful Dead
Heading down to the beach? Be sure to listen to Grateful Dead during your journey to the shore. This rock band formed in Palo Alto, California is the perfect addition for a chill summer playlist. Their music perfectly captures the culture of the mid-1960s, with good vibes and free spirits all around. "Casey Jones" and "Friend of the Devil" are two of my favorite songs.
12. Simon & Garfunkel
This American folk duo epitomizes chill summer days. With hits such as "Mrs. Robinson," "The Boxer" and "Scarborough Fair," you'll feel more relaxed than ever.
11. Carly Simon
This American singer-songwriter is nothing short of a legend. Simon, who started singing to help deal with her stammer and severe anxiety, has one of the most recognizable voices in music, and her song "You're So Vain" will have you jamming along.
10. The Smashing Pumpkins
The angsty and contagious lyrics from The Smashing Pumpkins will have you playing their songs on repeat. Considered to be 'the model for alternative rock success,' the Pumpkins are the perfect addition to your playlist.
9. Queen
How could one not adore Queen? The sheer talent of this rock group is beyond compare, and their songs are perfect for singing along to in the car with your best friends. If you belted "Bohemian Rhapsody," you haven't lived. Other favorites include "Killer Queen" and "Somebody to Love."
8. Ella Fitzgerald
One of my favorite artists, Ella Fitzgerald's voice is nothing short of incredible. This Queen of Jazz will always bring a smile to your face, whether she's singing solo or featured with Louis Armstrong. "Dream A Little Dream of Me" is a classic, with Fitzgerald's soulful voice and Armstrong accompanying her on the trumpet.
7. David Bowie
The late singer is the perfect addition to a summer cookout or a night out with friends. A man of many different personas and alter egos, Bowie's songs such as "Heroes," "Rebel Rebel" and "Ziggy Stardust" will give you a newfound appreciation for the British singer and actor.
6. The Beach Boys
One of the most popular boy groups of the 1960s, The Beach Boys' music makes you think of the type of beach parties your grandparents probably attended. "Barbara Ann" and "Wouldn't It Be Nice," are just two songs that are perfect for playing on the beach (if the name didn't tell you that already).
5. Michael Jackson
It's impossible to write an article about artists from other generations and not include the King of Pop himself. His songs are fun and upbeat, and perfect for a warm summer evening.
4. Nirvana
Arguably the most influential rock groups of the late 80's to early 90's, Nirvana has changed music for the better. With Kurt Cobain's iconic raspy voice, "The Man Who Sold The World" is a chill song perfect for relaxing in the air conditioning.
3. Jimi Hendrix
Listening to this rock 'n' roll legend shred on the guitar is nothing short of an incredible experience. The sheer talent that Hendrix posses is incredible, and "Freedom" will have you tapping your feet along to the beat.
2. Fleetwood Mac
I absolutely adore this band. Stevie Nicks' voice never fails to give me chills, and their music is perfect for any occasion. I'm very guilty of blasting "Dreams" as I'm driving. "Rhiannon," Landslide" and "The Chain" are just a few of my favorites.
1. The Beatles
I'm extremely biased because The Beatles is my all-time favorite band, but they deserve a spot on this list. They did more than write and record music, they made art that changed the way we see music. They have a song to fit every mood, and they're a great band to listen to, especially if you're just starting to listen to older bands.
Happy summer, everyone!
