Opinion | What are the songs of this summer?

When I’m putting together the soundtrack for my summer, I look for a few things. I love a few up-tempo pop songs that I can get stuck in my head and sing in the shower, plenty of chill songs with fun lyrics that I can put on for any moment, and a few sad summer hits for those of us who are following along. This summer, I’ve put together the ideal playlist that has proven reliable for almost any situation I need it in. Here are a few easily digestible hits that you can play via aux, add to your perfectly curated playlist, or check out if you’re looking for some good new music.

Undeniably, Sabrina Carpenter’s world takeover has already secured her two residencies on my summer playlist. Without her album even being released, two hit singles “Espresso” and “Please Please Please” planted seeds in my brain that I just can’t shake. I love a good pop anthem in the summer, and Carpenter could never disappoint in that regard. Sometimes popular things are popular because they’re so catchy and universal, and that’s absolutely true of these Sabrina Carpenter bangers. This type of song is best played while getting ready or DJing in a social setting, and can lighten the mood when you’re looking to have fun.

Another recent hit that has gone through the roof for good reason is “BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish. I can’t stress enough how often I listen to this song, even though I’m not the most avid Eilish listener. Her switching it up with this song is one of the best decisions she could have made, because the fast tempo with such sweet lyrics makes this song a great summer listen and my favorite song of hers. new album. I especially enjoyed this selection when I was sitting in the park or driving with the windows rolled down.

Clairo has always been the perfect artist for summer energy. “Bags” and “Sofia” are still on my summer playlists. Her new single “Sexy to Someone” is my favorite song at the moment and I’m looking forward to it. Album release.

Maggie Rogers’ latest album, Don’t Forget Me, is packed with great songs to listen to this season. The entire 10-track record sets the perfect mood for a summer day, and I can listen to the entire album from start to finish, making it a coveted no-skip album in my eyes. “It Was Coming All Along” and “If Now Was Then” are standout songs, along with the title track, and have been on repeat for me since the album’s release. Like the rest of Rogers’ discography, Don’t Forget Me captured exactly the mood I was looking for during the summer months. The mix of relaxing, yet upbeat songs with talented lyricism makes it versatile and my favorite song to listen to on my headphones while taking a walk in the sun.

During summer rains or days spent rotting in bed, Lizzy McAlpine’s latest album is a more melancholy take on the perfect summer album. If you want to tone things down a bit and take things a little more seriously, check out “Older.” “Come Down Soon” and the title track “Older” are my favorites, but the entire album is a must-listen.

I have to say goodbye to my favorite summer music that goes beyond new releases. “Sunshine Baby” by The Japanese House is the ultimate summer song that never gets old.

Ryan Beatty’s album “Calico” was the soundtrack to my summer of 2023 and it continues to delight me this year. The album doesn’t have a single misfire and Beatty’s voice is the perfect addition to any summer evening.

Finally, I’ll leave you with my favorite artist of the summer: I always return to Flipturn this season, and not just because of “August.” Their discography is perfect for the coming months. They have some great, underrated songs, with my favorite at the moment being “Sad Disco.”

Delaney Rauscher Adams has a playlist for every situation. Send your music recommendations to [email protected].