This is the third year I’ve written about the hottest anthems of the summer, and looking back, there were so many great songs I enjoyed not just then, but even now. I have a new list of songs that I’m sure will be a part of your summer…which one of these ten songs will you identify with most?
“Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift feat. Kendrick Lamar
Other songs from her album 1989 may have been more suited for this summer, but she chose the almost-a-ballad “Bad Blood.” As if she could read my mind, she released a revised single featuring hip-hop artist Kendrick Lamar. This partnership gave the song a much-needed edge and added to its appeal.
“Trap Queen” by Fetty Wap
This song could have been a contender for summer anthem last year! It was originally released in April 2014 and took nearly a year to rise up the Billboard charts. This song, featuring an incredibly catchy hook and melody, will stay in your head long after you’ve logged out of YouTube.
“Timebomb” by Tove Lo
Swedish recording artist Tove Lo burned up the charts with songs like “Habits (Stay High)” and “Talking Body,” but it’s her newest single that is the most adventurous. While I didn’t want another ballad from Taylor, I’ve been dying to hear one from Tove Lo, and she delivers with a track that’s half-ballad and half-dance hit. Fabulous!
“Lean On” by Major Lazer & DJ Snake feat. MØ
This absolutely infectious single is getting more and more airplay on Top 40 radio, and it’s easy to figure out why. The Bollywood beats (coupled with an even more inventive music video), catchy sound effects used as hooks, and the talents of Danish singer MØ all come together and form a unique listening experience.
“Blue Pool” by Vanessa Carlton
Mystical, new-agey, and not at all how we remember Miss Vanessa, “Blue Pool” has this charming quality about it, and that charm practically begs you to play it at your next pool party. Usually I focus on high energy when looking for a summer anthem, but this time I will consider relaxation. This song feels like a hug, and I want to hug back.
“Pretty Girls” by Britney Spears and Iggy Azalea
This is a partnership that people have been waiting on for quite a while. Iggy Azalea has been applauded before for her contribution to various pop singles, such as Ariana Grande’s “Problem.” Now that we’ve heard what Iggy can do with Britney, many of us wanted them to partner up for another single!
“House on Fire” by Ryan Cabrera
I know what you’re thinking: Ryan Cabrera is still releasing music? It was over a decade ago that he burst onto the scene with the beachy-pop “On the Way Down,” and while the vocals are definitely a part of Cabrera’s love song wheelhouse, the almost-Europop dance beats left me energized. Is this his second act?
“American Oxygen” by Rihanna
The current dance chart-topper is her other recent single, “B**** Better Have My Money,” but this one is more poignant and important considering our current social climate. Listen to it once and you’ll be singing it all week. The music video is just as groundbreaking and impactful as the music and lyrics.
“This Summer’s Gonna Hurt” by Maroon 5
There’s always the song that people want to listen to while they’re sunning themselves at the beach or by the pool, and this song is definitely it. Catchy and uncomplicated, I think this may very well be my choice for my summer anthem. Also, who can forget the music video, where Adam Levine gets totally naked? (Yes, you can see everything!)
“Ghosttown” by Madonna
If you’ve been on Facebook at all this year, you have probably noticed the Madonna War. Is she “past it” or is she fabulous and plagued with haters? This song may have been on the charts well before summer but I feel it’s one of her best songs from the past 20 years. As if to prove its worth, it is still being heavily played in the clubs. When Madonna is on, she is so on.
Want to relive summers past? Read our summer anthems articles from 2013 and 2014.
