19 Best Songs about Summer and Summertime

Songs about summer and summertime have been a beloved tradition for many generations, capturing the essence of this warm and carefree season. With their catchy melodies, upbeat rhythms, and nostalgic lyrics, summer songs have become synonymous with the joy and freedom that comes with longer days, warmer temperatures, and vacations.

Throughout history, music has played an essential role in shaping cultural identities and reflecting the sentiments of a particular time and place. In the case of summer songs, they often evoke memories of beach trips, road trips, and outdoor activities, transporting listeners to a place of relaxation and fun. From the Beach Boys’ classic “Surfin’ USA” to DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince’s “Summertime,” there is no shortage of summer anthems that have become timeless classics. These songs celebrate the simple pleasures of life, from sun-kissed skin and sandy beaches to backyard barbecues and lazy afternoons.

Furthermore, summer songs have become a ubiquitous part of pop culture, influencing fashion, movies, and even our language. Whether it’s a reference to a particular song or a general sentiment associated with summer, these tunes have permeated every aspect of our lives.In conclusion, songs about summer and summertime offer a glimpse into a world of carefree and joyous living, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They remind us of the importance of enjoying the present moment, creating memories with loved ones, and cherishing the little things that make life worthwhile.

1.Summertime – Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

Summertime – Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong: This classic jazz standard, originally composed by George Gershwin, is given a memorable rendition by the legendary duo of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. The song’s languorous pace and richly orchestrated backing, combined with Fitzgerald’s smooth vocal delivery and Armstrong’s distinctive gravelly tone, make it a quintessential summer song that perfectly captures the season’s lazy, hazy vibe. The song’s melancholic undertones, however, hint at the fleeting nature of summer and the bittersweet feeling of its passing.

2.Hot Fun in the Summertime – Sly & The Family Stone

Hot Fun in the Summertime – Sly & The Family Stone: This upbeat funk track is a celebration of all the joys of summertime. The song’s funky bassline and lively horns, combined with Sly Stone’s soulful vocals and catchy chorus, make it an instantly recognizable summer anthem. The lyrics evoke a sense of carefree abandon, urging listeners to “just let the music take your mind” and “enjoy yourself”. The song’s infectious energy and positive vibes make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist and a classic example of 60s funk and soul.

3.The Boys of Summer – Don Henley

The Boys of Summer – Don Henley: This classic rock track, released in 1984, is a nostalgic ode to the passing of time and the memories of summer love. Don Henley’s distinctive voice and evocative lyrics capture the bittersweet feeling of nostalgia, as he sings about lost love and the passage of time. The song’s memorable synth riff and guitar solo, combined with its driving beat, make it a quintessential summer driving song. The Boys of Summer is widely regarded as one of Henley’s best-known solo works, and its enduring popularity has cemented its place in the pantheon of classic rock.

4.Summertime – DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince

Summertime – DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince: This hip hop classic, released in 1991, is a light-hearted celebration of summertime fun. DJ Jazzy Jeff’s catchy beat and the Fresh Prince’s smooth flow perfectly capture the easygoing vibe of summer, as the duo sings about cruising around, going to the beach, and hanging out with friends. The song’s sample of Kool & the Gang’s “Summer Madness” creates a laid-back, jazzy atmosphere that perfectly matches the song’s subject matter. Summertime remains a beloved track in the hip hop canon, and its upbeat energy and positive lyrics make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.

5.Summer Wine – Nancy Sinatra

Summer Wine – Nancy Sinatra: This dreamy, atmospheric song, released in 1967, is a duet between Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood. The song’s distinctive melody, driven by an acoustic guitar riff and lush strings, perfectly captures the languid mood of a summer day. The lyrics describe a romantic interlude, as the singers share “summer wine” and take a journey through the countryside. Sinatra’s sultry vocals, combined with Hazlewood’s deep baritone, create a perfect contrast that makes the song truly memorable. Summer Wine has become a beloved classic, and its dreamy atmosphere and romantic lyrics make it a perfect soundtrack for lazy summer afternoons.

6.Summer in the City – The Lovin’ Spoonful

Summer in the City – The Lovin’ Spoonful: This 1966 hit captures the bustling energy and heat of an urban summer day. The song’s driving rhythm, punctuated by a memorable piano riff and brass section, creates a sense of urgency and excitement that perfectly matches the song’s lyrics. The Lovin’ Spoonful’s lead singer, John Sebastian, describes the sights and sounds of the city in the summer, from the heat and noise to the crowded streets and the allure of the nightlife. The song’s infectious energy and catchy chorus have made it a summertime classic, and it remains a staple on classic rock radio to this day.

7.In The Summertime – Mungo Jerry

In The Summertime – Mungo Jerry: This classic 1970 hit is a feel-good, summertime party anthem. Mungo Jerry’s lead singer, Ray Dorset, describes a carefree summer lifestyle that includes drinking, dancing, and having fun with friends. The song’s upbeat tempo, banjo riff, and sing-along chorus create an infectious energy that has made it a staple of summertime radio and party playlists. In The Summertime is a classic example of 70s rock and roll, and its good-time vibe and positive lyrics make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.

8.Summertime Sadness – Lana Del Rey

Summertime Sadness – Lana Del Rey: This hauntingly beautiful ballad, released in 2012, is a melancholic meditation on lost love and the passage of time. Lana Del Rey’s haunting vocals, combined with the song’s atmospheric synths and electronic beats, create a dreamy, melancholic atmosphere that perfectly matches the song’s title. The lyrics describe the loneliness and sadness of a summer that has passed, as the singer mourns the end of a relationship and the fleeting nature of time. Summertime Sadness has become a modern classic, and its haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a perfect choice for late-night summer listening.

9.Summer – Calvin Harris

Summer – Calvin Harris: This 2014 hit is a high-energy, electro-pop anthem that perfectly captures the carefree, party atmosphere of summertime. Harris’s infectious beat and catchy chorus create a fun, danceable vibe that has made the song a staple of summer playlists. The lyrics describe the joy of summertime and the thrill of falling in love in the summer heat. The song’s positive energy and infectious hook make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist or party mix.

10.School’s Out – Alice Cooper

School’s Out – Alice Cooper: This classic 1972 rock anthem has become synonymous with the end of the school year and the start of summer vacation. Cooper’s raucous vocals and driving guitar riffs perfectly capture the rebellious spirit of youth, as the song celebrates the freedom and fun of summer. The lyrics describe the excitement of being released from the constraints of school, as Cooper sings, “No more pencils, no more books, no more teacher’s dirty looks.” School’s Out remains a beloved classic rock track, and its rebellious energy and iconic chorus make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist or end-of-school-year celebration.

11.Cruel Summer – Bananarama

Cruel Summer – Bananarama: This 1983 hit perfectly captures the bittersweet emotions of summertime, as Bananarama’s upbeat pop melody contrasts with the song’s lyrics about heartbreak and loneliness. The song’s driving rhythm and catchy chorus make it a perfect dancefloor filler, while the lyrics describe the isolation and emptiness of a summer that has gone wrong. The song’s unique combination of upbeat pop and melancholic lyrics has made it a classic of 80s pop music, and its timeless sound and iconic chorus have made it a beloved summertime anthem.

12.Summer Nights – Olivia Newton-John

Summer Nights – Olivia Newton-John: This classic song from the 1978 musical Grease is a fun and romantic duet between Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta. The song describes the excitement and passion of a summer romance, as the two singers trade verses about their summer love affair. The song’s catchy melody and sing-along chorus have made it a staple of summer parties and sing-alongs, and its inclusion in the popular movie Grease has cemented its status as a classic summertime hit. Summer Nights remains a beloved favorite, and its upbeat energy and romantic lyrics make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.

13.Summer Wind – Frank Sinatra

Summer Wind – Frank Sinatra: This classic song from 1966 is a smooth and romantic ballad that perfectly captures the mood and nostalgia of summer. Sinatra’s smooth vocals and the lush orchestration create a dreamy, wistful atmosphere that evokes the warmth and magic of a summer evening. The lyrics describe the bittersweet feelings of love and loss, as Sinatra sings, “That summer wind came blowing in from across the sea, it lingered there to touch your hair and walk with me.” Summer Wind remains a beloved classic of the American songbook, and its timeless beauty and nostalgic lyrics make it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.

14.Hot Girl Summer – Megan Thee Stallion ft. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign

Hot Girl Summer – Megan Thee Stallion ft. Nicki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign: This 2019 hit is a high-energy, female empowerment anthem that celebrates the fun and freedom of summer. Megan Thee Stallion’s fierce vocals and the catchy beat create a confident and playful vibe that encourages women to embrace their sexuality and have fun in the sun. The lyrics celebrate the joy and confidence of a hot girl summer, with lines like “Real hot girl shit, yeah, I’m in my bag, but I’m in his too.” Hot Girl Summer has become a cultural touchstone, with the phrase “hot girl summer” being used as a hashtag and a symbol of female empowerment and self-confidence. The song’s infectious energy and empowering message make it a perfect addition to any summer party playlist.

15.Cool for the Summer – Demi Lovato

Cool for the Summer – Demi Lovato: This 2015 hit is a bold and sexy pop anthem that celebrates the thrill of a summer fling. Demi Lovato’s powerful vocals and the catchy beat create a confident and playful vibe that encourages listeners to embrace their desires and take risks. The lyrics describe the excitement and passion of a summer romance, with lines like “Got my mind on your body, and your body on my mind.” Cool for the Summer has become a summertime favorite, with its infectious melody and empowering message inspiring listeners to let loose and have fun.

16.(Love is like a) Heat wave – Martha and the Vandellas

(Love is like a) Heat wave – Martha and the Vandellas: This classic Motown hit from 1963 is a soulful and energetic celebration of the intense heat and passion of summer love. Martha and the Vandellas’ powerful vocals and the catchy rhythm create a party atmosphere that encourages listeners to dance and sing along. The lyrics describe the overwhelming intensity of a summer romance, with lines like “Whenever he’s near, I hear a symphony.” Heat wave has become a timeless classic, with its irresistible melody and infectious energy making it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.

17.Summer Babe – Pavement

Summer Babe – Pavement: This indie rock hit from 1992 has a dreamy and hazy quality that perfectly captures the lazy days of summer. Pavement’s lo-fi sound and Stephen Malkmus’ laid-back vocals create a melancholic yet comforting atmosphere that evokes memories of warm summer afternoons. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of a summer romance, with lines like “Summer babe, you really got me, summer babe, I’m feeling like a child.” Summer Babe has become a cult classic, with its unique blend of indie rock, alternative, and shoegaze making it a beloved song for summer.

18.Sunny Afternoon – The Kinks

Sunny Afternoon – The Kinks: This 1966 hit from British rock band The Kinks has a catchy and upbeat melody that perfectly captures the carefree spirit of summer. Ray Davies’ smooth vocals and the cheerful rhythm create a celebratory atmosphere that encourages listeners to let loose and enjoy the sunshine. The lyrics describe the pleasures of summer living, with lines like “The taxman’s taken all my dough, and left me in this stately home.” Sunny Afternoon has become a classic summertime hit, with its sunny disposition and memorable tune making it a staple on many summer playlists.

19.That Summer – Garth Brooks

That Summer – Garth Brooks: This 1993 hit from country superstar Garth Brooks is a nostalgic and romantic ballad that tells the story of a teenage summer romance. Brooks’ deep voice and the gentle guitar melody create a wistful and reflective mood that perfectly captures the bittersweet memories of summer love. The lyrics describe the innocence and passion of a young summer fling, with lines like “We made love in everyway love can be made, and we made time.” That Summer has become a beloved country classic, with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody making it a perfect addition to any summer playlist.