As we get into the bright summer days, I feel like it’s important to have a good playlist when you are out enjoying the sun. Here are some songs I have added to my own playlist this summer as I spend time tanning and enjoying Lake Michigan:
“Material Lover” by SIENNA SPIRO
Although “The Devil Wears Prada 2” soundtrack is filled with well-known artists such as Lady Gaga and Dua Lipa, “Material Lover” stands out to me as the best track. Released May 1 for the movie, this song explores the often-relatable struggle of wanting material objects that only possess emotional value.
Not only does the song embrace the value in material items and visual aesthetics, but it showcases SPIRO’s jazz-infused pop vocals that make her songs so unique. While the song is perfect for the movie’s themes of fashion materialism, SPIRO’s passion makes the song reach beyond simply an exploration of unnecessary want by conveying how these objects can also enhance one’s visual aesthetics.
I think this song is perfect for a stroll downtown, going to small shops with your headphones on.
“hate that i made you love me” by Ariana Grande
After the release of one of my favorite 2024 albums, “eternal sunshine,” I had been waiting for a new Ariana Grande project for a while. The more mature tone present within her previous album is continued in her new single, released May 29, accompanied by a cinematic journey within the song’s music video.
I find it captivating that Grande continues to develop her singles with both emotion-filled lyrics and action-packed music videos which seem to always feature some esteemed horror actor such as Justin Long or Evan Peters. The cinematic quality within each of these videos makes her already deep and personal lyrics that much more impactful.
I have already listened to this song multiple times sunbathing on the beach’s sand. While connecting with old friends, we shared an interest in this new single.
I hope to see a continuation of Grande’s new sense of maturity and deeply felt emotion within her upcoming album “petal” set to release July 31.
“SS26” by Charli xcx
I was initially shocked that this new song was rock-infused and chill, as I was accustomed to the very club pop music in Charli’s previous album, “BRAT.” Released May 21, alongside its edgy runway music video, “SS26” is about more than just the Spring/Summer 2026 fashion season.
The song acts as commentary on the cyclic nature of fashion, societal collapse and maintaining one’s public image. As she sings “Yeah, we're walkin' on a runway that goes straight to hell / Nothing's gonna save us, not music, fashion or film,” the grim reality of the construction of art and celebrity culture becomes clear.
Amplified by this song’s edgy shift, it’s jam-packed with both an intense message and a rock ballad charm. This angst makes “SS26” a fun song to listen to during summer, especially for those who like songs that are both catchy and meaningful.
“American Girls” by Harry Styles
Released March 6 with the rest of the album “Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally.,” this song initially stood out as my favorite for its catchy chorus and synth beat. The song discusses Styles’ deep loneliness as he is unable to find the right person like his friends have.
”American Girls” perfectly blends moments of light pop instrumentals with choruses that display how adamant Styles is within this realization. In the chorus, he sings, "I've known you for ages, it's all that I've heard / My friends are in love with American girls / I've seen it in stages all over the world.”
His vulnerability and deep life reflection make the track that much more emotionally relatable, as I am sure many have felt this overwhelming feeling of dread that romantic loneliness can cause. I can only imagine listening to this song on a long summer car ride while reminiscing on past memories.
“Need for Speed” by Kim Petras
As the fourth single from her album “Detour,” Petras released “Need for Speed” April 22, along with its accompanying music video. The high-energy bubblegum pop song is about being an unapologetic pop star, surrounded by attention and love but also plagued by their label’s demands.
The track goes into Petras’ fast-paced life and how she feels she doesn’t have much time to herself, while also discussing the treatment of artists under their label. To convey the confining rules that her label places on her, Petras sings “Cause they love the money and they want it now / And they love it when I got no boyfriend in my life.”
While this song is just a glimpse at this discourse, it’s catchy because of its electronic sound and multiple synthesizers. I often find songs discussing the chaotic pop-star life campy and fun, and this song is no different. It’s this fun vibe I feel is essential to summer, especially if you are looking for a confidence booster.
While songs like “Need for Speed” are perfect for a confident, upbeat summer, “American Girls” and “Material Lover” are more laidback, destined for a chill time basking in the hot sun. Either way, I’m sure you’ll be able to find a song out of this list that fits your summer vibe.
