Whether you are throwing a summer party, lying out by the pool or simply kicking back in the living room with friends, the right music can make or break a hangout. Summer 2016 calls for new jams playing on the radio, but should also allow room for the classics.
Check out our playlist appropriate for any summer chill out.
####Wildewoman | Lucius
Although an ultimate song for any kick-butt woman, this carefree tune can be appreciated by anyone at any kind of hangout. The song is uplifting and motivating and can turn any bad mood around. “It’s written in her blood/it’s written in her bones/she’ll only be bound by the things she chooses” echoes every time the chorus rolls around, and you cannot help but feel powerful when listening to this song.
####UGH! | The 1975
Off of their newest release “i like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it,” this song seems bubbly, but it’s actually about lead singer Matt Healy’s struggle with drug addiction. Despite the heavy topic, Healy brings together the number with his famous falsetto and a peppy beat.
####Shadow | Bleachers
Another upbeat melody, “Shadow” encompasses the spontaneity of summer. Picture sitting on the couch one moment and hopping into a friend’s car and heading to the beach. This tune is meant to be played with the windows rolled down and the breeze in your hair.
####Summer Friends | Chance the Rapper
“Coloring Book” is the album of the summer. Once again, Chance has yet to disappoint with his happy-go-lucky attitude and music that you can’t help but smile to. “Summer Friends” is one of the many perfect tracks off “Coloring Book” for any summer setting.
####Wildfire | John Mayer
Although this song was produced in 2013, it’s still suitable for this summer. “Cause’ a little bit of summer is what the whole year’s all about” is the truest line to be pulled from Mayer’s album “Paradise Valley.” Sit back in your chair beside a bonfire and let Mayer serenade you with the sounds of summertime.
####Ocean Avenue | Yellowcard
Throw it back to 2003 for a moment and indulge in what the perfect trouble-free evening sounds like. There is nothing like the 2000s to trigger the warm nostalgic feelings that always accompany summer break.
####Retro [ROUGH] | Childish Gambino
“Kauai” successfully encompassed the tone of summer 2014. Gambino has yet to disappoint with his releases, and it would be wrong not to acknowledge him this year. “Retro” has a beachy feel and should be played at any summer gathering.
####Waves | Bahamas
For a more laid-back tune, “Waves” is the perfect track. This song is perfect for lying on the beach and listening to the waves creep up the shore.
No matter the setting, this summer calls for beachy vibes and laid-back fun. For some, this might be the last summer at home with family before heading off to college. For others, it might be the last summer before entering the “real world” full of expectations and responsibilities. Nevertheless, this brief playlist has something for everyone.
_Edited by Katie Rosso | krosso@themaneater.com_