“Mom, I promise this is my last summer to mess around before I get that internship.” Does this sound like you? Have you been getting the “get a job” speech since the day you got home? If you have, do not be embarrassed -- you are not alone.
The older you get, the more serious summers can be, but that doesn't mean you can’t still have a taste of summer vacation. You’re still a kid after all. Well, sort of. And so, here are 20 songs that will give this summer the magic it once had in the prime of your youth.
1. HAIM, "The Wire" - This California rock band’s hit single, The Wire, is unbearably catchy. With fun, sing-along lyrics, and an easy dance beat, this track works well for a summer road trip.
2. Tiesto, "Wasted" - Despite its cliché lyrics and predictable melody, this may be the catchiest Tiesto track to date. This is a fun song about drinking, it is light enough for daytime debaucheries in the sun, and it is easy to sing along to.
3. Tiesto, "Let’s Go" - featuring Icona Pop - Clearly, Tiesto is doing good things. Now with a memorable chorus featuring Icona Pop, Tiesto’s Let’s Go is bound to be the party hit of the summer.
4. Tokyo Police Club, "Hot Tonight" - This Canadian indie rock group has been a big hit in the alternative music scene for several years now. This lively single off their new album, Forcefield, is bound to be a summer hit.
5. American Authors, "Best Day Of My Life (Gazzo Edit)" - This generic indie pop track is gloriously transformed into a party hit with Gazzo’s creative spin. Trust me- this is a hidden gem.
6. Foster the People, "Best Friend' - This may be their best song to date. It’s just as groovy and exciting as their older stuff, with a touch of something new. Their energy is stronger than ever on this song. A must listen.
7. The Bleachers, "I Wanna Get Better" - This summery tune features a catchy alternative rock melody with lyrics about, well… getting better! It’s uplifting, and it’s catchy -- a solid summertime combo.
8. The Chasers, "Mary Payton" - Unless you go to Wake Forest, chances are you probably have not heard of these guys. This is my buddy’s new band, and this is their lead single. It’s fun, jam band rock with a touch of country. Give it a listen.
9. Felix Cartel, "Ready For Love" - It starts off slowly, with attractive female vocals, soft piano, and a gradually quickening tempo. The beat then builds further, leading to the drop. This is the classic formula for an effective progressive house tune. This song follows that formula to a tee, and it works... It works very well.
10. Kodaline, "Love Like This" - I’m not sure how anyone could not dig the sweet acoustic guitar and harmonica combo in the beginning of this indie rock tune.
11. Vacationer, "The Wild Life" - This California group gives off quite the summer vibe with all their music, and this lead single off their upcoming album is no exception.
12. Tove Lo Ft. Hippie Sabotage, "Stay High" - For indie pop and electronica fans, this may be your song of the year. With incredible vocals, a killer beat and a laidback feel, this is the perfect track for a late afternoon summer drive.
13. Calvin Harris, "Summer" - Calvin Harris makes fun party music. This song is called “Summer.” It sounds like typical Calvin Harris... I do not think anything else needs to be said.
14. Afrojack, "Ten Feet Tall (Culture Code Remix)" - This is another progressive house sing-along, by a very reliable DJ. Culture Code has improved this already incredible song, with a longer and more effective intro and a stronger drop. This EDM track is upbeat enough for any party, with inspiring lyrics that match the optimism of summertime.
15. Zedd, "Find You" - Last year, Zedd’s "Clarity" was played on repeat on college campuses across the country. Now he brings us this equally exciting EDM creation. Fun, simple, and not overly aggressive, this track fits the feel good summer vibe.
16. RAC, "Tear You Down," featuring Alex Hebert- On RAC's new album, Strangers Pt. 1, this may be the biggest standout. With vocals from Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zero’s lead singer, Alex Hebert, and a classic RAC twist, this track will surely be a crowd favorite.
17. Phantogram, "Fall In Love" - This electronic group is known for their experimental and bold rhythms and beats. This track in particular has a strong enough electronic beat to party to, and a slow enough tempo to hang out to- the perfect hybrid for a chill summer afternoon.
18. Kingalande, "Jubel" - With prominent piano, saxophone and deep house melodies, this track is the smooth, breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for. Not to mention you can sound edgy and cool telling your friends you listen to deep house.
19. Imagine Dragons, "On Top Of the World (RAC remix)" - A happy, motivating tune with a feel good electronic adjustment seems like an obvious choice for any summer playlist. And when has RAC steered you wrong?
20. The Avett Brothers, "Open Ended Life" - Indie folk fans, I bring you The Avett Brothers. These guys have been destroying the folk rock and bluegrass and scenes for over a decade, and with their newest album Magpie and the Dandelion, they bring us a classic rock influenced 5-minute composition. This is a great swing-dancing song, with an authentic, outdoorsy feel.
21. NONONO, "Pumpin Blood" - This song has made appearances on various advertisements and TV trailers over the past few months. Its cheerful tone makes it a great song to start your day. It may even give you the motivation you need to land that internship or kill that job interview. Also, EDM fans, check out the Jane Doze remix- It’s tight.
22. Real Estate, "Talking Backwards" - Dream pop. Jangle pop. Surf Rock. Whatever you want to call it, there is no denying that this music sounds like the beach. A memorable guitar groove and chill vocals make this track a great easy listen for a relaxing day by the pool.
23. Divisionary, "Do the Right Thing" - I can guarantee you this song will be stuck in your head after your first listen. That’s a good sign, right? The lyrics are also very positive! These guys just want everybody to do the right thing all the time. That’s a cheerful thing to sing about on a sunny July afternoon.
So give these songs a shot, and happy summer vacation everybody! Whether you’re more of a pop, indie or EDM fan, these songs should definitely do the trick for you this summer.
And remember, you’re still young. But if you ever feel like you’re getting too old with internships, college stressors, your age getting higher and things like that, try watching SpongeBob… It’ll bring you back.
Cheers.
Youtube Playlist:
