Looking for the perfect summer playlist? We’ve got your back. Since it’s finally summertime and everybody’s ready to enjoy themselves, we decided to make a playlist that consists of our favorite summertime bangers. Whether you’re a fan of rock, hip-hop, pop, or a genre that falls somewhere in between, this list has something for everyone. Let’s get this party started!
“Doin’ Time” by Sublime
Album: Sublime (1997)
“Summertime, and the livin’s easy.” Leading off our playlist is Sublime’s classic, “Doin’ Time.” With a warm, grooving instrumental and the perfect lyrics to match, this song is the ultimate summertime jam.
“Island in the Sun” by Weezer
Album: Green Album (2001)
“On an island in the sun. We’ll be playing and having fun.” When you listen to this catchy track by Weezer, you’ll feel like someone transported you to paradise. Warning: This song will probably be stuck in your head for the rest of the day.
“Emit Remmus” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
Album: Californication (1999)
Everyone knows the Red Hot Chili Peppers sound even better in the sunshine. This particular song is clearly meant to be listened to during the summer (Emit Remmus is just “summertime” spelled backward). With driving bass, thrashing drums, and funky guitar, this tune truly rocks.
“It Was a Good Day” by Ice Cube
Album: The Predator (1992)
Imagine this: You’re driving around your hometown, the hot summer sun is setting, and “It Was a Good Day” by Ice Cube comes on. The only thing left to do is crank your volume up until the speakers blow. This track is an absolute banger.
“Feels Like Summer” by Childish Gambino
Album: Summer Pack (2018)
“You can feel it in the streets. On a day like this, the heat. It feels like summer.” Childish Gambino’s album Summer Pack is exactly what you want to hear on the first hot day of the season. This song stands out as one of the best on the iconic warm weather project.
“Sun Is Shining” by Bob Marley and The Wailers
Album: Kaya (1978)
Bob Marley is the master of summertime jams. That being said, “Sun Is Shining” might be his very best. The groove reminds us of a relentlessly hot day in the middle of July, and Marley’s vocals really put this one over the top!
“Everybody Loves the Sunshine” by Roy Ayers
Album: Everybody Loves the Sunshine (1976)
The titular track from one of Roy Ayers’s greatest albums, “Everybody Loves the Sunshine,” is a jazzy, psychedelic masterpiece. And seriously, who doesn’t love the sunshine?
“Ghost Ship” by Blur
Album: The Magic Whip (2015)
If you’re sitting poolside and wondering what song to put on next, this hit from Blur’s 2015 album The Magic Whip is exactly what you need to hear. Put this tune on and let your daydreams take over.
“Cheap Sunglasses” by ZZ Top
Album: Degüello (1979)
This hit by ZZ Top reminds us of the most essential summertime items: Cold beverages, rockin’ music, and cheap sunglasses. Try not to headbang too hard…
“Cruel Summer” by Bananarama
Album: High Life (1983)
Every playlist needs a little ’80s, right? “Cruel Summer” gives us vivid flashbacks to some of our favorite throwback movies. What a classic!
“Summer Games” by Drake
Album: Scorpion (2018)
This dream-inducing track tells the story of a failed summertime fling. With relatable lyrics, an incredibly detailed beat, and Drake’s iconic delivery, this song will instantly hook its listeners.
“Hot in Herre” by Nelly
Album: Nellyville (2002)
Because there’s no such thing as a summer playlist that doesn’t include this banger. Nelly’s “Hot in Herre” is catchy, fun, and absolutely classic. It’s almost impossible not to dance!
