Summer Playlist

My summer thus far has consisted of days at the beach, road trips, family gatherings, working at a boutique, and visiting with friends, all of which have been accompanied by music. I’m usually one to let others dictate the playlist, genre, and artist that we listen to which has led me into July without a summer playlist. However, the struggle that I have once I reach Spotify is that I seem to be cycling through the same songs unable to find something new. With that being said, it felt necessary to put together a list of songs that I would consider to be a “summer playlist” to give you some fresh ideas and hopefully aid in the process of adding to your own playlist. This selection has a range of different songs to accompany moments such as road trips, family barbecues, or simply lying on the beach.

1. “Cassidy” by Brett Dennen

This song has a relaxed feel to it that immediately brings the beach vibe to life. It has lyrics like “Cassidy, with the ocean in your hair” and “I love the feeling of stayin’ on my feet with salt on my skin”. 

2. “(Sittin’ On) the Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding 

This is a peaceful song that tells a story about sitting out on the water. It is a classic to listen to all summer long.

3. “A Side / B Side” by Tipling Rock

This song has a tropical strum in the background which makes it a great song for the beach. A lyric from the song that embodies the feel of it is, “Well I’m chillin’ by the seaside”, which immediately sets the tone. 

4. “The Tide is High” by Blondie

This is a classic song that always feels like summer because of the beat in the background as well as the lyrics about the tide. I would personally play this song on a drive to the beach with the windows down. 

5. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) by Stevie Wonder 

This upbeat song delivers energy that would quickly liven up a summer drive, a family barbeque, or even a morning walk. This song has an infectious feel!

6. “Jump Right In” by Zac Brown Band 

This song encourages jumping into experiences and living in the moment with a summer country vibe. With lyrics such as “Baby, powder beach under my feet has got me rolling,” the song describes getting lost in the fun of an island. 

7. “Real Love Baby” by Father John Misty

This is a song that would be great for any summer setting because it has a carefree and mellow vibe. It is a relaxing and warm song. 

8. “Where the Skies are Blue” by the Lumineers

This is a comforting, sweet song that paints a picture through its lyrics. Some of the lyrics include, “Let the sunshine in your hair” and “you can always find me where the skies are blue.” 

After getting insight into the songs that remind me of summer, I hope you are able to find a song or two to add to your summer playlist, or at least feel inspired to make a summer playlist of your own! Music has such a big influence on our moods, and can completely change the vibe of our days. I have found that by listening to songs with a tone that matches the season, weather, or activity I am involved in, the music has a way of uplifting me and brightening my days.