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The SFMQ Ultimate Summer Playlist

Ah, summer. The season of sunburns, ice cream, and those unforgettable tunes that make you want to dance barefoot on the grass. There’s nothing quite like a great summer song to transport you back to long, lazy days and warm, starry nights. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the pool or driving with the windows down, the right playlist can turn an ordinary day into a mini-vacation. So, slap on the sunscreen, grab your shades, and let’s create the ultimate summer playlist that’ll make you feel like every day is a holiday!


1. Club Tropicana by Wham! (1983)


Wham! sure knew how to throw a summer party. Club Tropicana is all about fun in the sun with its upbeat tempo and cheeky lyrics. With George Michael crooning about drinks being free and fun and sunshine in abundance, it’s like being invited to the ultimate beach bash. The song’s catchy chorus and tropical vibes will have you dreaming of that perfect seaside escape—even if you’re stuck in the office.


2. Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys (1966)


This classic tune by The Beach Boys is the musical embodiment of catching the perfect wave. Good Vibrations brings those sun-soaked California vibes straight to your speakers. With its lush harmonies and innovative production, it’s a feel-good anthem that makes you want to hop in a convertible and drive down the coast with the wind in your hair. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!


3. Dancing Queen by ABBA (1976)


No summer playlist is complete without a bit of ABBA. Dancing Queen is the ultimate feel-good track that gets everyone on their feet. This disco classic transports you to a carefree time of glittery dance floors and boogie nights. Whether you’re the life of the party or just having a solo dance-off in your kitchen, this song will make you feel like royalty.


4. Hot in Herre by Nelly (2002)


When the temperature rises, so does the need for Hot in Herre. Nelly’s infectious hit has been the soundtrack to countless summer parties since 2002. With its irresistible beat and cheeky lyrics, it’s a song that demands you get up and dance—even if you’re just in front of the fan. Warning: May cause spontaneous removal of clothing.


5. Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince (1991)


Will Smith, before he was slapping Oscars, was crafting the perfect summer anthem with DJ Jazzy Jeff. Summertime is a nostalgic ode to the simple joys of summer: cruising with friends, barbecues, and that undeniable seasonal vibe. With smooth rap verses and a laid-back groove, it’s a must-have for any summer playlist.


6. The Boys of Summer by Don Henley (1984)


The Boys of Summer is a bittersweet track that captures the fleeting essence of summer love and memories. Don Henley's haunting voice paired with evocative lyrics makes this song a reflective summer staple. It’s perfect for those twilight moments when you’re feeling nostalgic about summers past.


7. California Gurls by Katy Perry feat. Snoop Dogg (2010)


Katy Perry’s California Gurls is a sun-kissed celebration of West Coast life. With its candy-coated beats and Snoop Dogg’s smooth verses, it’s a beach party in a song. This track will have you dreaming of palm trees, sandy beaches, and all the fun under the Californian sun—even if you’re nowhere near the Pacific.


8. Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves (1983)


If there’s a song that feels like a burst of pure joy, it’s Walking on Sunshine. Katrina and the Waves deliver an irresistible anthem that can lift your spirits on even the gloomiest day. This upbeat track is guaranteed to get you smiling, dancing, and, well, feeling like you’re walking on sunshine!


9. Despacito by Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee (2017)


Despacito took the world by storm with its catchy Latin rhythms and infectious melody. Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee’s hit is perfect for those hot summer nights when you just want to dance. Even if you don’t understand the lyrics, the song’s energy is impossible to resist. It’s a global summer anthem that’ll get everyone moving.


10. Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams (1984)


Bryan Adams’ Summer of '69 is a rock classic that nostalgically reminisces about the good old days. With its anthemic chorus and heartfelt lyrics, it’s a song that makes you want to pick up a guitar and jam out in the garage. This track is a timeless ode to youthful summers and the memories that last a lifetime.


11. Get Lucky by Daft Punk feat. Pharrell Williams (2013)


Daft Punk and Pharrell Williams teamed up to create the ultimate feel-good summer hit with Get Lucky. This funky track is all about good times and good vibes. With its smooth vocals and infectious beat, it’s a song that can make any day feel like a Saturday night. Perfect for beach parties and sunset celebrations.


12. Wipe Out by The Surfaris (1963)


Wipe Out is the quintessential surf rock anthem that brings the beach to you. The Surfaris’ instrumental hit is full of energetic drumming and catchy guitar riffs. It’s a song that makes you want to grab a surfboard and hit the waves—or at least imagine you’re riding them while you air-drum along.


13. Uptown Funk by Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars (2014)


Uptown Funk is a modern classic that brings the party wherever it goes. Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars created a track that’s impossible not to dance to. With its retro vibes and funky beat, it’s the perfect song for summer gatherings where you want everyone on their feet. Just remember: Don’t believe me, just watch!


14. I Gotta Feeling by The Black Eyed Peas (2009)


The Black Eyed Peas’ I Gotta Feeling is the ultimate anthem for summer nights out. This high-energy track is all about living in the moment and making the most of every opportunity. It’s a song that turns any ordinary night into an unforgettable experience. So go ahead, get that good feeling!


15. Rockaway Beach by Ramones (1977)


The Ramones’ Rockaway Beach is a punk rock ode to summer fun. With its fast-paced beat and catchy lyrics, it makes you want to head to the nearest beach and rock out. It’s the perfect track for those who like their summer tunes with a bit of edge and attitude.



There you have it—We’ve added 15 tracks that embody the essence of summer. From nostalgic classics to modern hits, this playlist has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Turn up the volume, soak up the sun, and let these tunes be the soundtrack to your best summer yet.


Got a favourite summer track that’s not on the list? Add it to our collaborative SFMQ ultimate summer playlist on Spotify and help us create the perfect summer soundtrack! 

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