An Early Bird’s Guide to a Summer Playlist
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It’s that time of year again - and while I can’t speak for everyone, there's nothing like the combo of longer days, warmer weather and looming finals to get me in the mood for my summer playlist. It’s been in my rotation for longer than I’d care to admit, and it’s gotten me thinking — what are the essential elements of a great summer playlist? I’ve divided my own summer tunes into a fewcategories to help you start building your own.
The driving with the windows down song. There’s nothing I love more in nice weather than a long drive. Sun on my face, wind in my hair and an overly dramatic song blasting from my speakers — it’s quintessential summertime. There are certain songs that are best listened to in that exact setting. These are my personal recommendations for songs that will make you feel like you’re in a movie:
“Born to Die” by Lana del Rey
“Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears for Fears
“August” by flipturn
The lounging song. This is an absolute essential. Whether you’re going on a glamorous beach vacation or just tanning at your neighborhood pool, you’ll need a good song that’s fun and relaxing. These songs have a chill vibe, but are still upbeat enough to make it feel like summer. I would also lump a lot of dad rock that you’d expect to hear during a lakeside barbecue into this section. Some songs I’d think of including:
“Waste My Time” by The Crystal Casino Band
“Dream With a Baseball Player” by Faye Webster
“Listen to the Music” by The Doobie Brothers
The dance party song. This category includes anything that just makes you want to dance and have fun! These songs should be able to fuel you through a late night packing session or underscore a girls’ night with your best friends. They’re consistently high energy and motivating. Here are a few recommendations:
“Blister in the Sun” by the Violent Femmes
“Delilah” by Florence + The Machine
“New Romantics” by Taylor Swift
The travel song. These kinds of songs are upbeat and get me excited to live life and see the world! They remind me of childhood road trips with my mom and sisters. Similarly to packing, these songs will help you romanticize the occasionally taxing nature of travel until you get to your destination. Here are my picks:
“Closer to Fine” by The Indigo Girls
“Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac
“Susie Q.” by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Regardless of your personal music taste, combining this formula with your favorite songs should make for the perfect summer soundtrack. The season is about relaxation, good weather and fun - you can’t really go wrong!
Strike Out,
Stella Turner
Editor: Caroline Kostuch
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