As summertime is finally here, and usually follows with songs that exude nothing but cool, relaxing melodic vibes. If you didn't know, streaming service Spotify named Major Lazer and DJ Snake's "Lean On" as the global song of the summer in 2015. Of course, there have been many other songs that have held this title over the years (some of which are quite arguable). Nonetheless, there are always those songs that take you back down memory lane into the summers of yesteryear. This of course isn't to take away from the hot up-and-coming summer songs of 2016. So in no particular order, here are my top five 90's songs that always get me into that summertime mood:
1. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince - Summertime
This classic anthem was first released in May of 1991. While Will Smith was beginning his acting career in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, he and DJ Jazzy Jeff were also working on and released their fourth album, Homebase. Summertime exudes anything and everything that is summer. From the cookouts and barbecues to getting together with friends and hanging out until the sun rises, this song is a nostalgic and albeit accurate depiction of summertime in the 1990s. Even 25 years later, people still feel those same positive vibes they once felt when the record first dropped. All in all, you could never say that you don't start to get that feel-good vibe when you hear this.
2. Kid N Play - Ain't Gonna Hurt Nobody
If you don't know who Kid N Play are, then your 90's kid card may or may not get revoked. Debuting during House Party 2, this song can get you feeling ready to party (or enjoy a cookout, both are fine). Ain't Gonna Hurt Nobody samples the 1970s funk and jazz group Brick song of the same name. Ain't Gonna Hurt Nobody is yet another feel-good record, that even if you don't know the lyrics you wouldn't be able to nod your head to the beat. This was also the lead record off of Kid N Play's third album, Face The Nation released in 1991. In short, this is one of those records that you just stop whatever it is that you're doing, and dance.
3. Dr. Dre Featuring Snoop Dogg - Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang
As the solo debut of Dr. Dre, we get a glimpse of what summer looks like on the west coast. Here, we have Dre and a young Snoop Dogg (then known as Snoop Doggy Dogg) enjoy their day heading to a block party and a barbecue (among other things). The song itself is more on the mellow side, as opposed to the two previous songs I listed. Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang is a more laid-back anthem for those who just want to kick back, relax and enjoy themselves. Whether in the car driving around or in the house with the air conditioner on full blast, this summer jam is sure to have you vibing out.
4. 2Pac Featuring Digital Underground - I Get Around
The record's name is exactly what it means. 2Pac is referencing exactly what you're thinking, but that's not why this reminds me of summer. The video is of course depicting a great time, and very vague NSFW conquests. This is one of those songs that will have everyone chanting the lyrics no matter where you are. No summer party or barbecue is complete without this record blaring out on the speakers. Not to mention that the video is quite comical. I Get Around earned a spot on the Billboard Hot 100 ranking in at #11, as well as becoming the lead single off of 2pac's second album. Bonus points for the 'Pac dance.
5. Lil' Kim Featuring Angie Martinez, Left Eye, Da Brat & Missy Elliott - Ladies Night (Not Tonight Remix)
Last but certainly not least, I had to give a shout out one time to the ladies, and this song couldn't have been a better choice. Originally on the soundtrack for Nothing To Lose starring Tim Robbins and Martin Lawrence, the song was an instant hit in the US. Released in June of 1997, this was sampled from the song of the same name (Ladies Night) by Kool and the Gang. This is a song that isn't necessarily played as much, but has earned a spot in my list. Five different female rappers with five completely different personas that somehow made it all work. In fact, during the 2014 Soul Train Awards Lil Kim, Missy Elliott and Da Brat performed the almost two decade old record. No matter what you say, you can't deny that this is actually a pretty dope record given that nowadays female rap collaborations like this are practically unheard of. Despite it all, this is something you yell out with your girls on a night out (or in).
