Let the music play on
The Ultimate Soundtrack to Keep the Vibes Alive Before This Summer
As the sun sets on another incredible summer, it's hard not to feel a little bittersweet. But don't worry—just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean the fun has to end. Whether you're hosting pool parties, hitting the road for one last weekend trip, firing up the barbecue, or enjoying a lazy picnic, the right soundtrack can keep those summer vibes going strong. From heavy hitters like Kendrick Lamar and Billie Eilish to fresh faces like MJ Lenderman and FloyyMenor, we’ve got the perfect playlist to close out your summer with a bang. So why wait? Dive into the music, and let the good times roll!
Kendrick Lamar - Not Like Us
In the heat of summer, Kendrick Lamar turned up the temperature with “Not Like Us,” a track that fueled his ongoing rivalry with Drake. Dropped in May, this diss track has dominated playlists and airwaves, becoming the anthem of summer 2024. Lamar, known for his lyrical prowess and Pulitzer Prize-winning storytelling, delivered this track with unmatched intensity. And just when the feud seemed to be cooling down, the July Fourth release of the "Not Like Us" music video reignited the flames. It’s no surprise that the track has inspired everything from viral memes to a video game, solidifying its place in music history.
Image from Soundcloud
Sabrina Carpenter - Espresso
Remember the carefree days of spinning glitter pens and lounging on your bed? Sabrina Carpenter's early hits like "Feather" and "Nonsense" captured that vibe perfectly. But with "Espresso," she's stepped into a new, more mature era. This track is like grabbing the keys to your parents' car and heading straight to the beach, ready for a night of endless possibilities. Carpenter's smooth, flirtatious vocals, paired with a funky bass line and dreamy drums, will transport you to a sun-soaked coast—any coast, really. No wonder stars like Adele and Cardi B have been quoting her irresistible line, "I'm working late 'cause I'm a singer."
Image from Pitchfork
Post Malone ft. Morgan Wallen - I Had Some Help
Country music and summer go together like ice-cold lemonade and sunshine, and this year, Post Malone teamed up with Morgan Wallen to deliver one of the season’s standout hits. "I Had Some Help" is an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like they’re spiraling but still holding on. The song’s infectious chorus and relatable lyrics have made it a must-listen, whether you're at a backyard barbecue or road-tripping with friends. The combination of Malone’s laid-back style and Wallen’s rugged voice creates a track that’s both fresh and nostalgic, perfect for those long summer nights.
Image from Variety
FloyyMenor ft. Cris MJ - Gata Only
This summer, reggaeton has been dominated by the low-key yet irresistible "Gata Only" by FloyyMenor and Cris MJ. What started as a TikTok sensation quickly climbed the charts, becoming the soundtrack to countless summer adventures. FloyyMenor, previously an enigma with no online presence, teamed up with fellow Chilean artist Cris MJ to create a track that’s impossible to escape. Whether you're cruising through city streets or dancing in a dimly lit club, "Gata Only" brings the heat.
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Chappell Roan - Hot to Go!
Chappell Roan has owned this summer with her infectious energy, and "Hot to Go!" is the track that stands out the most. From gay clubs to baseball games to kids' birthday parties, this song is everywhere. Its catchy chorus and feel-good vibes make it impossible not to dance along. With a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh, "Hot to Go!" is on track to become a classic summer anthem, joining the ranks of "YMCA" and "Sweet Caroline" as a go-to for any celebration.
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Lana Del Rey ft. Quavo - Tough
Who knew that Lana Del Rey and Quavo could create magic together? "Tough" is a gritty, country-trap anthem that pays tribute to the working class, blending Del Rey’s melancholic Americana with Quavo’s raw emotion. The song’s music video, set on a farm, features the duo wielding shotguns and guitars, symbolizing their resilience. As Quavo reflects on the loss of his nephew, Takeoff, the track becomes a powerful ode to overcoming adversity. It’s a uniquely American story, perfectly capturing the spirit of summer 2024.
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Billie Eilish - Birds of a Feather
Billie Eilish’s fans have been raving about "Birds of a Feather" since it dropped on her third studio album, Hit Me Hard and Soft. The song captures the fleeting beauty of summer, with Eilish crooning about how precious time is, whether it’s spent watching sand slip through an hourglass or feeling it between your toes at the beach. With every note, Eilish reminds us to savor every moment, making "Birds of a Feather" the perfect soundtrack for those golden summer days.
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MJ Lenderman - She’s Leaving You
Everyone has a go-to summer song, and MJ Lenderman’s "She’s Leaving You" is one that stands out. This indie-rock gem tells the story of a midlife crisis set to a crunchy guitar riff that echoes the early days of Car Seat Headrest. The chorus is one of those earworms that you can’t shake, making it a must-add to any summer playlist.
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GloRilla - TGIF
GloRilla is known for turning the recording studio into her personal pulpit, and "TGIF" is no exception. This track is the ultimate summer anthem, predicting the weather for every Friday night in 2024 with precision. The song captures the carefree spirit of a single woman’s night out, complete with casual attire, no-strings-attached fun, and plenty of extra cash. It’s the perfect soundtrack for a night out with friends or a laid-back evening, and it’s quickly becoming the go-to track for anyone looking to enjoy the summer to its fullest.
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What’s Your Summer Anthem?
We’ve shared our picks—now it’s your turn! Which of these tracks tops your summer playlist? Drop a comment and let’s keep the summer vibes alive together!