Summer is the perfect time to make memories and make new connections, but no summer getaway is complete without the perfect song to accompany the season. Hit the beach with the 20 best summer songs that perfectly capture the essence of summer.
Summertime Jams
Complete the summertime experience with these uplifting and sunny tunes to light up your day.
- “Summertime Sadness” – Lana Del Rey
- “California Gurls” – Katy Perry
- “Summer Paradise” – Simple Plan
- “Good Time” – Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen
- “Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams
- “Hot in Herre” – Nelly
- “Cruel Summer” – Bananarama
- “Island in the Sun” – Weezer
- “Boys of Summer” – Don Henley
- “Walking on Sunshine” – Katrina and the Waves
- “Kokomo” – The Beach Boys
- “All Summer Long” – Kid Rock
- “Surfin’ U.S.A.” – The Beach Boys
- “Dancing in the Street” – Martha and the Vandellas
- “Sunrise” – Norah Jones
- “Rockaway Beach” – Ramones
- “Steal My Sunshine” – Len
- “Summertime” – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
- “Under the Boardwalk” – The Drifters
- “Wipe Out” – The Surfaris
Summertime Sadness
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Lana Del Rey
Album:
- Born to Die
Description
Feeling depressed this summer? Say no more because Lana Del Rey’s got your back. “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey juxtaposes the melancholic undertones of the lyrics with a dreamy, atmospheric sound. Released in 2012, the song evokes a bittersweet nostalgia and reflects the complex emotions that can arise during the season. Lana’s haunting vocals and poetic storytelling create an atmospheric backdrop that resonates with listeners, portraying the contrast between the carefree nature of summer and the underlying sense of longing and melancholy.
California Gurls
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg
Album:
- Teenage Dream
Description
Katy Perry and Snoop Dogg basks in the sultry beaches of California with this infectiously sweet banger. “California Gurls” by Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg perfectly captures the essence of summer with its upbeat, energetic sound and playful lyrics. The 2010 celebrates the carefree and sunny vibes of California, invoking images of beaches, parties, and the laid-back California lifestyle. Katy Perry’s catchy melodies, Snoop Dogg’s smooth rap verses, and the overall vibrant production make “California Gurls” a perfect anthem for embracing the summer spirit and enjoying the sun-soaked days.
Summer Paradise
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Simple Plan ft. Sean Paul
Album:
- Get Your Heart On!
Description
Simple Plan evokes the laid-back and nostalgic feel of the summer with the 2011 song “Summer Paradise.” The song’s tropical melodies, breezy lyrics, and catchy chorus transport listeners to a carefree summer getaway. It embodies the desire for adventure, relaxation, and making lasting memories during the sunny season. “Summer Paradise” serves as a musical escape, evoking the warmth and freedom associated with summer, making it a perfect soundtrack for the season.
Good Time
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Carly Rae Jepsen, Owl City, Adam Young
Album:
- The Midsummer Station
Description
Carly Rae Jepsen and Adam Young of Owl City had a wicked good time in this 2012 pop song. “Good Time” by Carly Rae Jepsen and Owl City boasts a carefree and uplifting vibe that’s perfect for your summer getaways. The song’s infectious pop sound, joyful lyrics, and catchy melodies evoke a sense of fun and adventure. It encapsulates the spirit of making memories, enjoying life’s simple pleasures, and embracing the positive energy that comes with the summer season, making it a perfect anthem for sun-filled days and carefree moments.
Summer of '69
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Bryan Adams
Album:
- Reckless
Description
Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69” infuses the summer with a funky rock tune with this 1984 throwback. “Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams boasts an undeniable charm with its nostalgic and energetic sound. The song’s timeless rock melodies and lyrics reminisce about carefree days and youthful adventures. It evokes a sense of freedom, joy, and the everlasting memories created during the summer season. “Summer of ’69” serves as a musical time capsule, transporting listeners to a time of youthful exuberance and endless possibilities.
Hot in Herre
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Nelly
Album:
- Nellyville
Description
Nelly’s 2002 track is bound to heat up your summer parties with its catchy tempo and risqué lyrics. “Hot in Herre” by Nelly boasts an infectious energy and sizzling party vibes. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy hooks, and Nelly’s smooth delivery create an irresistible summer anthem. It encourages listeners to let loose, dance, and embrace the heat of the season. “Hot in Herre” embodies the carefree and fun-loving spirit of summer parties, making it a perfect soundtrack for warm nights and memorable celebrations.
Cruel Summer
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Bananarama
Album:
- Bananarama
Description
Bananarama laments their lonely and hot summer with this catchy 1983 pop song. “Cruel Summer” by Bananarama flaunts a catchy pop sound and with melancholic lyrics. The song’s energetic beats, infectious harmonies, and relatable themes of longing and desire evoke the heat and intensity of summer romance. “Cruel Summer” transports listeners to the hazy days and nights of summer, encapsulating the bittersweet emotions and unforgettable experiences that define the season.
Island in the Sun
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Weezer
Album:
- Weezer
Description
Weezer invites their significant other on a fun summer getaway in “Island in the Sun.” The 2001 song has a laid-back, carefree sound and sunny lyrics. The song’s melodic guitars, catchy hooks, and feel-good vibes transport listeners to a peaceful getaway. It conjures images of beaches, palm trees, and the freedom of a tropical paradise. “Island in the Sun” embodies the desire for relaxation, escape, and embracing the blissful moments that summer brings.
Boys of Summer
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Don Henley
Album:
- Building the Perfect Beast
Description
Don Henley’s “Boys of Summer” reminisces the fun and innocent romance of the summer. The 1984 song banks on nostalgia with its infectious tempo and reflective lyrics. The song’s poignant storytelling, melodic guitar riffs, and Henley’s emotive vocals conjure memories of youthful adventures and fleeting romances. It captures the essence of long, lazy summer days, the passage of time, and the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia that summer often brings. “Boys of Summer” remains a timeless anthem that encapsulates the spirit of the season.
Walking on Sunshine
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Katrina and the Waves
Album:
- Walking on Sunshine
Description
Karina and the Waves rejoices the summer with their beloved in this feel-good banger. Released in 1985, “Walking in Sunshine” radiates with an infectious pop-rock sound, joyful lyrics, and catchy melodies evoke a sense of pure happiness and optimism. It embodies the carefree and radiant spirit of summer, bringing to mind sun-soaked days, outdoor adventures, and the warm embrace of your special half.
Kokomo
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- The Beach Boys
Album:
- Cocktail Soundtrack
Description
The Beach Boys takes their girl to a trip to Aruba, Jamaica, and Bermuda in this globe-trotting summer track. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys captures the summer with its tropical vibes and carefree lyrics. Released in 1988, the song’s island-inspired melodies, soothing harmonies, and references to exotic destinations create an atmosphere of relaxation and adventure. It transports listeners to a beach paradise, painting a sunny picture of palm trees, crystal-clear waters, and the sun’s warmth. “Kokomo” embodies the spirit of escape and the desire to find paradise during the summer season.
All Summer Long
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Kid Rock
Album:
- Rock n Roll Jesu
Description
Kid Rock revels in summer nostalgia with the rock and country blend of “All Summer Long.” The 2008 song bears a nostalgic and anthemic fusion of rock and country. The song’s infectious melodies, catchy chorus, and feel-good lyrics evoke memories of carefree days and endless summers. It pays homage to the joy of youth, parties, and the shared experiences that make summertime unforgettable. “All Summer Long” embodies the spirit of celebration and the freedom that comes with the season, making it a perfect summer anthem.
Surfin' U.S.A.
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- The Beach Boys
Album:
- Surfin' U.S.A.
Description
The Beach Boys strikes again and goes surfing across the U.S. of A. “Surfin’ U.S.A.” by The Beach Boys shows of its iconic surf-rock sound and lyrics that celebrate the joy of catching waves. Released in 1963, the song’s energetic melodies, harmonies, and upbeat rhythm evoke images of sunny beaches, carefree surfers, and the thrill of the ocean. It embodies the spirit of adventure, freedom, and the vibrant culture of beach life.
Dancing in the Street
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Martha and the Vandellas
Album:
- Dance Party
Description
Martha and the Vandellas takes listeners back in time and takes to the streets in 1964’s “Dancing in the Street.” The has an infectious rhythms and lyrics that invite people to come together and celebrate. The song’s energetic Motown sound, lively vocals, and irresistible grooves evoke images of street parties, block dances, and the vibrant atmosphere of summertime gatherings. It embodies the spirit of community, joy, and the shared love for music and dance that make summer memorable.
Sunrise
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Norah Jones
Album:
- Feels Like Home
Description
Norah Jones’ “Sunrise” captures the tranquil beauty and elegance of the summer with its charming tempo. Released in 2004, the song’s gentle melodies, Norah’s soothing vocals, and introspective lyrics evoke a sense of tranquility and warmth. It embodies the beauty of early mornings, the awakening of nature, and the peaceful moments that define summer. “Sunrise” serves as a musical invitation to savor the peaceful and rejuvenating aspects of the season.
Rockaway Beach
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Ramones
Album:
- Rocket to Russia
Description
1977’s “Rockaway Beats” oozes with the frenetic and lively beat of summertime parties. “Rockaway Beach” by Ramones boasts a fast-paced punk sound and lyrics that exude youthful energy. It’s got high-energy guitar riffs, catchy hooks, and a rebellious attitude that evoke the spirit of carefree summer days spent at the beach. It embodies the desire for fun, excitement, and the thrill of embracing the sun, sand, and surf.
Steal My Sunshine
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- Len
Album:
- You Can't Stop the Bum Rush
Description
Len contemplates their boring and defeated summer with a fun and upbeat song from the 90s. Released in 1999, “Steal My Sunshine” boasts catchy melodies, carefree lyrics, and playful vibes evoke a sense of sunny days, carefree adventures, and youthful joy. It embodies the spirit of embracing spontaneity, letting go of worries, and finding happiness in simple pleasures. “Steal My Sunshine” serves as a musical reminder to soak up the warmth and brightness of summer moments.
Summertime
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
Album:
- Homebase
Description
DJ Jazzy Jeff and Will Smith enjoys the fun and breezy season of the summertime. DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince’s “Summertime” captures the laid-back and nostalgic feel of the summer with its smooth beats, catchy hooks, and nostalgic lyrics transport listeners to a time of carefree summers. It embodies the spirit of relaxation, good vibes, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the season. “Summertime” remains a timeless anthem that evokes the joy and warmth of summer memories.
Under the Boardwalk
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- The Drifters
Album:
- Under the Boardwalk
Description
The Drifters’ “Under the Boardwalk” goes way back to 1964 with a pleasant and catchy song for your honey. “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifters focuses on the season’s soulful and romantic sound. The song’s smooth harmonies, beachside references, and nostalgic lyrics evoke the carefree atmosphere of summer vacations. It embodies the magic of secret rendezvous, the warmth of the sun, and the joy of creating timeless memories in the coastal breeze. It’s the perfect throwback to romantic escapades under the scorching summer heat.
Wipe Out
Listen:
- Amazon Music •
- Spotify •
- Tidal •
- YouTube
Artist:
- The Surfaris
Album:
- Wipe Out
Description
The Surfaris is here to give you the quintessential surf-rock song of your summer. “Wipe Out” by The Surfaris captures the essence of summer with its infectious surf-rock sound. Released in 1963, the song’s energetic guitar riffs, dynamic drumbeats, and iconic wipeout drum solo evoke the thrill and excitement of riding waves. It embodies the spirit of adventure, the adrenaline rush of surfing, and the carefree atmosphere of beach culture. “Wipe Out” remains a timeless surf anthem that brings the essence of summer to life.
Ridin’ the Waves Into the Sunset
Whether you’re hitting the beach and riding the waves or chilling out under the sun with friends, there’s a song for you. The summer is the perfect season to let loose or lay back with good company and good music.
