Don't forget to also check out Part One in my Songs of the Summer series!
#11. "So Yesterday" - Hilary Duff: Ten years ago, in 2003, this song took radio by storm. It still remains one of Hilary Duff's best known songs. The casual, chilled out breakup song has a great summery vibe, as does the popular music video.
#12. "Beauty and a Beat" - Justin Bieber feat. Nicki Minaj: This is the perfect song for a summer beach party. If you can look past Nicki Minaj's rap verse, it's a fun and lively song.
#13. "Teenage Dream" - Katy Perry: Almost made the list: "California Gurls". I think "Teenage Dream" is much better than "California Gurls" in that it's more nostalgic, carefree but doesn't sound too overproduced or manufactured. A great song for driving with the top down.
#14. "American Honey" - Lady Antebellum: I love this song because it reminds us of a happy childhood. And after all, isn't summer a time when we all want to relive out childhood?
#15. "Starships" - Nicki Minaj: I had to put this on the list because it's bouncy, catchy and a real guilty pleasure. You know you'll be playing this at your next party.
#16. "What Makes You Beautiful" - One Direction: This modern pop classic (yes I just called this a modern pop classic) has the season all over it. From the hand claps to the guitar, this is a definite song of the summer, and rightly so.
#17. "Love Song" - Sara Bareilles: One of my favorites. I recall listening to this song on the radio on lazy summer days. Sara Bareilles is a great songwriter and the piano in this song makes it what it is.
#18. "Forever and Always" - Shania Twain: Maybe it's because of the music video, but I love listening to this song in summers. It's sweet, romantic and nostalgia-inducing.
#19. "Under The Sea" from Disney's The Little Mermaid This is a Disney classic without which your summer would be incomplete. The Caribbean theme, complete with snappy beats and witty lyrics is simply brilliant. Gotta love it.
#20. "Hakuna Matata" from Disney's The Lion King I picked this song because of it's laid back attitude. "No worries for the rest of your days...it's our problem-free philosophy!" Now THAT'S a summer worth having!
Keep checking back on every Saturday for the next round of summer hits! Got a suggestion? Comment or Tweet me @IAmGaryWright Till then, have a great summer!