Summer is here and it’s time to dance. Here are the top 10 songs you should have in your playlist.
- Britney Spears – Do You Wanna Come Over?
I know, technically, Britney Spear’s Glory came out August 2016. But, the song isn’t a single yet, and in the days of Grindr – it’s relevant. The song is sexy and fun, and asks your lover the burning question of the summer evening – do you want to come over? Whether it’s for Netflix and chill or you skip the move altogether, this song shapes up to be the tease of the summer.
- Grimes (feat. Janelle Monae) – Venus Fly
Infectious and dance-worthy, Venus Fly brings everything sassy to the dance floor. The Canadian producer, singer, and songwriter serves artistry as well as fierceness. The song is the perfect choice for anyone who’s been cat-called, stared at by creeps, and harassed by trolls. It’s all fun and games until you have to ask, “why you looking at me now?” Add this to your summer playlist and be ready to death drop.
- Maggie Lindemann – Pretty Girl
Sometimes you need a song that reminds you of what a bad ass you are. This summer, “Pretty Girl” fits that bill. The 18-year-old songstress and Dallas, TX native holds her middle finger up to the world and says, “I’m not just a pretty girl.” With a strong beat and great lyrics, the social media star released a smart single. Taking a stand against sexism sounds good, doesn’t it? If you want something a bit more club-ready, be sure to check out the Cheat Codes x Cade remix.
- Carly Rae Jepsen – Cut to the Feeling
Carly Rae Jepsen of “Call Me Maybe” fame hits hard with this feel-good banger. “Cut to the Feeling” has a nostalgic appeal, and Carly Rae’s unique vocals will have you gushing. The love song is so adorable, in fact, it will have you funky dancing every time you think about that special someone. It’s time for summer love, and this song offers you a heart-shaped soundtrack.
- Fifth Harmony (Feat. Gucci Mane) – Down
Can I just say how much I love Fifth Harmony? The band comes back stronger than ever after losing pint-sized diva, Camila Cabello, and it’s not hard to see why. With lyrics like, “you’re the type that I could bake for, ’cause you know how to take that cake.” Who could be disappointed in a song like that? I don’t know this for sure, but the remixes to this song are going to be hot.
- Rita Ora – Your Love
After four years of waiting, Rita Ora comes back to the scene with one of my personal favorite songs of the summer. This musical gem is both sweet, and has the potential to be a club banger. I can hear the remixes already! The beat is pop perfection. So, whether you’re in the club working up a sweat with someone special, or alone in your room – this song is great for the summer.
- AJR – Weak
AJR is composed of three brothers who have wrote, produced and recorded many great songs. The band is known for their eclectic style and use of Spongebob SquarePants samples. But, “Weak” will remind you of every fun and horrible decision you’ve ever made. Weak is a song you can bounce and groove to. It’s all about having poor impulse control, which is terrible, but can also lead to a lot of adventure. And what’s wrong with that? So, next time you’re doing the walk of shame, wondering how you ended up on the other side of town this summer – this song is for you.
- Selena Gomez – Bad Liar
Selena Gomez is quickly becoming one of my favorite artists, and it’s not hard to see why. “Bad Liar” hardly disappoints. Summer is a time where pheromones fly free, and “Bad Liar” recognizes that. Everyone has a summertime crush, and this song will ring in your head every time you see yours in a tank top and short shorts. You’re welcome.
- Halsey (Feat. Lauren Jauregui) – Strangers
A song written for the LGBTQ fam, Strangers is about lost love between two women. The song features a soft beat, 80’s synth, and Fifth Harmony’s Lauren Jauregui. This song is beautiful and something to play on repeat. With biting lyrics like, “We’re not lovers, we’re just strangers with the same damn hunger…” this song is fit to give you all the feels this summer.
- Katy Perry (Feat. Nicki Minaj) – Swish Swish
Everyone loves a little bit drama, and Swish Swish offers the “T” we need. It took Katy Perry almost three years to respond after Taylor Swift released “Bad Blood” – a song by Swift directed at the “Fireworks” singer. “Swish Swish” squashes the feud with a fantastic dance beat and, of course, Nicki Minaj. The house-inspired song is definitely one for every gay club in America. My personal favorite line in this track, “you’re about as cute as an old coupon expired.” Ouch, Katy. Ouch. This is definitely the song of the summer.
So, there you have it! Guaranteed to enhance your summer experience, these hits will keep you dancing. Turn up your radios, plug in your headphones, and let the beats heat up your summer nights.
Author: Aaron Lawrence
Feel free to submit YOUR favorite summer playlists, for a feature here on the LGBT Sentinel.
