In this three-part series, I'll be listing 30 of my all-time favorite songs of the summer. These are songs that I've grown up with, listen regularly to every summer, and which bring back so many memories of happy summer days.
So in, no particular order, here are some of my favorite songs of the summer. Let's dive right in!
#1. "What Time Is It?" from the movie High School Musical 2: This song perfectly captures the feeling of the start of summer vacation. As the kids throw their books up in the air and rejoice their freedom. The lyrics and music combine in a great pop song that's going to make you leave your work and run to the nearest swimming pool. "What time is it? Summertime!"
#2. "Tattoo" - Jordin Sparks: Back in 2008, I remember listening to this song on the radio when I was gazing at kites in the sky. This isn't a "summer" themed song, but for me, it just brings back so many good feelings of happy summer days as a sixteen year old. It's a mid-tempo love song, and I think it's definitely a staple in my summer playlist!
#3: "Our Last Summer" - ABBA: Anyone who's travelled a lot in the summer will relate to this song. Of course, I can't relate to visiting Paris in the summer, but I've had some great vacations. The song has a distinct summery vibe that narrates a memorable summer spent with someone special.
#4. "Sometimes" - Britney Spears: I mean, how can I not? The song and music video are definite 90s pop treasures. I was about seven or eight when I heard this song. It's light, breezy and clean-cut. The music video is a summer music classic. A beach, sand, water and a cute couple. Perfect formula.
#5. "Call Me Maybe" - Carly Rae Jepsen: One of the more recent additions to my summer playlist, this song was the breakout summer hit of 2012. And for good reason. It's a fun song about trying to get to know someone you have a thing for. The upbeat, bubblegum track helps make this a standard for every summer party.
#6. "One Way Ticket" - Carrie Underwood: Although I'm critical of the inclusion of this song on a country record, it's a darn good summer song. "If life don't go your way, it's time to take a break", sings the country star while probably sipping a pina colada by the pool.
#7. "Bubbly" - Colbie Caillat: This song is Colbie Caillat's claim to fame. That said, it's only a sample of Caillat's summer-themed music. Literally all her albums have a distinct sunny California flavor. "Bubbly" is another radio favorite of mine. It's lazy, chilled out and has a really relaxing guitar.
#8. "Crush" - David Archuleta: American Idol Season 7 runner up David Archuleta's first single isn't exactly a summer song, but hey, you need an anthem for a summer crush, don't you? This is actually such a good song. Archuleta's vocals are spot on perfect and it's a perfect song to sing while gazing out the house on a summer day. Or maybe that's just me.
#9. "Dreamlover" - Mariah Carey: Mariah's 1994 classic "Dreamlover" has all the elements of a summer anthem: a love theme, whistle notes galore and a boppy beat. The music video is also one of my favorites: Mariah sings while prancing around in a field on a breezy summer day. Sunflowers and backup dancers included. Love it!
#10. "Summertime" - New Kids On The Block: NKOTB's 2008 comeback song is a great throwback to the boyband's 90s heyday. "Summertime" is current and nostalgic at the same time. And the guys still sound the same!
Make sure to keep checking back every Saturday to see more songs of the summer! In the meantime, let me know what YOUR favorite summer-flavored songs are! Who knows, I might add them to the list! Comment below or Tweet me @IAmGaryWright