Written by and Graphic by Kashvi Pallapotu and Ananya Panchal.

Summer isn’t just a season- it’s a feeling captured perfectly in sound. Whether you’re driving with windows down, lounging by the pool or dancing barefoot under the stars, these few tracks create the soundtrack to your sun-soaked memories. From nostalgic classics to modern bops, here’s your essential summer playlist that bottles up a little sunshine!

1. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” Tears for Fears

Shimmering guitars and upbeat tempo create perfect driving-with-windows-down energy. Perfect for sunset road trips when everything feels possible. 

2. “The Spins” Mac Miller

Laid-back beat with dreamy production that captures carefree summer nights. Perfect for those late-night conversations with your friends back home (friends that you graduated high school with, if-you-know-you-know.)

3. “LES” Childish Gambino

Jazzy samples with an introspective tone that embodies summer in the city. Perfect for wandering urban streets on a warm evening. 

4. “Lady Killers II” G-Eazy and Christoph Andersson

High-energy track with such a smooth and confident delivery. Perfect for the getting ready session before going to the beach party. 

5. “Adventure of a Lifetime” Coldplay

Disco-influenced track with tropical warmth and funky riffs. Perfect for those spontaneous sneak-outs to explore your city. 

6. “Dancing Queen” ABBA

The ultimate summer party anthem! Perfect for literally any and every celebration, 24/7

7. “Flashing Lights” Kanye West

A cinematic experience combining strings with strong electronic elements. Perfect for those night drives when the summer air is filled with possibility. 

8. “Pink+While” Frank Ocean

It’s a breezy, nostalgic production with angelic backing vocals that literally makes you float—Perfect for lazy afternoons, cloud-watching and sunset strolls.

9. “Kokomo” The Beach Boys

Tropical paradise vibes with harmonies that transport you to sandy shores. Perfect for poolside lounging with a cool drink and a Big Mac. 

10. “Back on 74” Jungle

Funk-infused groove with disco elements that make it impossible not to move. Perfect for that house party when you need everyone to get off their phones and really live in the moment. 

11. “Monalisa” Dominic Fike

A chill and breezy track with laid-back vocals and sunny production. Perfect for the afternoon drives along the coastal roads.

12. “Show Me How” Men I Trust

Silky smooth bass lines and ethereal vocals create a dreamy, floating sensation. Perfect for stargazing on warm summer nights. 

13. “What Once Was” Her’s

Jangly guitars and retro production create a nostalgic summer feeling. Perfect for the one day you decide to put your mind on DND and do something that you really love.

Summer is fleeting, but these songs make the season’s magic last all year round. Whether you’re creating memories or revisiting old ones, the right soundtrack makes everything sweeter. For even more summer vibes, check out this expanded Spotify playlist because there’s always room for one more perfect summer song.

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