Summer songs for summer vibes

Story by Ricky Cooks, in-depth editor

Let’s face it— you’re all exhausted. It’s the end of the school year, and you can almost taste the freedom and endless nights of summer. What better to get you in the mood than some great music? Check out these songs for cool summer vibes and a good time!

 

alt-J — “Something Good”

Imagine this: You wake up especially early, the sun barely up. You get in your car and drive as you listen to this relaxing, yet upbeat track. With simple, soothing lyrics and soft drums in the background, this song won’t kill your summer mood. Enjoy it with the early morning breeze and release your inhibitions.

 

alt-J — “Breezeblocks”

Typically, songs with deep bass and scratchy vocals don’t have the ability to calm you down. This song, for reasons unbeknownst to me, clears your mind and makes you want to live in the moment, something great when you just want to chill out.

 

Empire of the Sun — “Walking On a Dream”

A recent favorite of mine, “Walking On a Dream” is the perfect song for an epic pool party or even a chill road trip. The lyrics aren’t the easiest to understand, but it makes the music even more memorable. Make sure to check this one out.

 

Calvin Harris — “Summer”

Obviously, there is no good playlist for the summer without this song. It starts off with a calm beginning, then with the bass drop comes an array of excitement and good vibes. The song is perfect for every aspect of summer— pool parties, hanging with friends or even a fun summer fling.

 

BØRNS — “Past Lives”

This song characterizes pure joy (for me, at least). It’s a matter of high energy and belting song lyrics. The song is sweet, but it just gives me hope for the summer and how good it is to be alive. Am I being dramatic? Yes, very much so. I have no apologies. Check out the song.

 

What So Not — “High You Are (Branchez Remix)”

Do you need that perfect song to blast in the car with the windows down, not a care in the world? This track is just for you. It has an amazing techno vibe along with lyrics that free your soul (for the moment, at least). This is by far my favorite summer track— it never disappoints.

 

Vance Joy — “Mess Is Mine”

No other artist makes me appreciate the summer more than Vance Joy. His light tracks, smooth ukulele and shaky vocals represent everything good about the summer. “Mess Is Mine” entails the perfect summer romance: exciting and heartwarming.

 

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros — “Home”

Cute, comfy and just the right amount of country, “Home” is a great song to sing with a friend. Its conversational lyrics make the song simple to understand, but still impactful. This track never fails to make you smile as long as the sun’s shining and you’re with someone you care about.

 

Hozier — “Jackie and Wilson”

This song is packed with crazy love and wild adventure. I recommend listening to this one alone, soaking in the lyrics and Hozier’s haunting vocals. The sun can be shining, or a storm can be ravishing–this song is perfect for both occasions. However you decide to take it, it’s definitely packed with emotion. Give it a try.

 

Coldplay — “Princess of China – Invisible Men Remix”

For those of you who love a mainstream song with a good twist, this is definitely the right song. I appreciate a good remix that doesn’t completely change the original song, and this “Invisible Man Remix” is just that. The bass is great, the lyrics are strong and it still feels like a good Coldplay jam.