When creating a summer soundtrack, I look for a few things: fast-paced pop songs I can sing in my head while in the shower, chill songs with fun lyrics I can play anytime, and sad-girl summer selections for anyone who joins in. This summer, I've created the ideal playlists that have proven reliable in just about any situation you need them in. Here are some easy-to-digest hits you can play on your aux, add to your perfectly curated playlist, or check out if you're on the hunt for new good music.
Sabrina Carpenter's worldwide popularity has definitely earned her a place on my summer playlist. Before the album was released, her two hit singles “Espresso” and “Please Please Please Please” planted a seed in my brain that has never been erased. I love a catchy pop anthem for the summer, and Carpenter never disappoints in that regard. Sometimes things are popular because they're catchy and universal, and that's certainly true for these hits from Sabrina Carpenter. These types of songs are great to put on while you're getting ready or with friends, and they'll get you in the mood when you want to have some fun.
“BIRDS OF A FEATHER” by Billie Eilish is another song that has recently become a big hit for a reason. I'm not an avid Eilish listener, but I can't emphasize enough how often I listen to this song. Changing it to this one was one of the best decisions she's ever made, as the upbeat tempo and great lyrics make this song perfect for summer listening and my favorite song off her new album. I especially enjoy this song when I'm sitting in the park or going for a drive with the windows down.
Clairo is always the perfect artist for summer energy and songs like “Bags” and “Sofia” still feature on my summer playlist. Her new single “Sexy to Someone” is my favorite chill song so far and I am eagerly awaiting the release of her album.
Maggie Rogers' latest album, Don't Forget Me, is packed with great songs to listen to this time of year. The 10-track album sets the perfect mood for summer days and is a “no skip” album for me as I could listen to the entire album from start to finish. “It Was Coming All Along” and “If Now Was Then” are standouts along with the title track and I've been listening to this album on repeat ever since it came out. Like other songs in Rogers' discography, “Don't Forget Me” perfectly captures the vibe I was looking for in the summer. The combination of relaxing yet upbeat tunes and great lyrics makes it versatile and perfect to listen to loud on headphones while taking a walk in the sun.
For rainy summer days and days spent stuck in bed, Lizzie McAlpine's latest album is a more melancholic take on the summer album. If you want to calm down and get a little serious, listen to “Older.” “Come Down Soon” and the title track “Older” are my favorites, but you should listen to the whole album.
Finally, here are some recommended songs for the summer that aren't just new releases: “Sunshine Baby” by Japanese House is the ultimate summer song that you'll never get tired of.
Ryan Beatty's album “Calico” continues to captivate me this year, becoming my summer music of 2023. Not a single song is missing from the album, and Beatty's voice is perfect for any summer night.
Finally, I'd like to talk about my favorite summer artist. This time of year I always listen to Flipturn, and not just because of “August.” Their discography is perfect for the coming months. They have some great, underrated songs, and my current favorite is “Sad Disco.”
Delaney Rauscher Adams has a playlist for every occasion, so send her music recommendations at dgr17@pitt.edu .
