With the occasional sight of good weather, all I can think about is how close summer vacation is. Summer comes with drives to the beach, bonfires, and long nights in the pool. And what do these all have in common? They need a bomb playlist to keep the night going! The best part of any summer playlist are everyone's female favorites - Beyonce, Rihanna, Adele, etc. But what about the female singers who you may not know but are just as great for your playlist? Here are the most notable 15 that you'll be thanking me for later (and, check out the playlist at the end of this article to hear them all!):
1. Red Rosamond
If you remember anyone from this article, Red is the name you do not want to forget. Normally described as "northern Canada's redheaded siren", I like to describe her sound as a blend of Adele and Amy Winehouse. There's no doubt that she has a unique and wonderful sound in her single she just dropped April 7th, "Don't Let Our Love Go Cold". She'll take you back to the 60s/70s while adding a Lana Del Rey twist. You NEED her on your summer playlist. She is everything.
2. Whissell
You've probably heard her songs on ABC, NBC, Lionsgate Films, Paramount Pictures, and even NARS makeup without even recognizing it. She started singing at the very young age of three, and has grown to the ever powerful strong and confident female artist that she is today. Songs you need in your life: "Pain of Love", "Old Souls, Young Bodies" and "Quicksand".
3. Elle King
You know her from her epic song, "Ex's and Oh's". There's no doubt that Elle has a very different voice. Born in Los Angeles, California, Elle is everything you'd want wrapped in one person. Her biggest inspiration, Wanda Jackson, perfectly goes hand in hand with her kind of sound, which encompasses everything from rock to even a country twang. Regardless, she is perfect for anyone's playlist during the summertime.
4. Andra Day
Discovered by Warner Bros. Entertainment partially because of her amazing covers and mashups on YouTube, Andra Day not only looks the part but sings it just as well if not better. You may have heard her beautiful song "Rise Up", which has almost 19 million views on YouTube. Described by many as a combination of Adele, Sia, Jessie J and Rihanna, she is every female dynamo you can think of, making her the perfect addition to any summer playlist.
5. Florence Welch
You probably know Florence better as Florence and the Machine. The dark and romantic sounding singer has not only a powerful voice, but powerful lyrics as well. Even her fashion sense is amazing! Don't forget her when making your summer playlist.
6. Maggie Rogers
Born in Maryland, Maggie found her rise to fame after Pharrell played her song "Alaska" in a masterclass at NYU. If you haven't yet, you must listen to this song. And while you're at it, listen around, because her voice is something that needs to be appreciated.
7. Kiiara
This Illinois singer is known for her electronic pop sound and unique vocals. You've probably heard her outlandish song "Gold", which at first can seem too weird for the ears, quickly becomes one's favorite song. Her song has more than 371 million plays on Spotify, and her other songs have millions of plays as well. Her songs "Feels" and "Intention" also deserve to be heard by your ears...they'll change your life.
8. HAIM
For their first ever show, they played at a Jewish deli in Hollywood and were paid in matzah ball soup. Sisters Este Haim, Danielle Haim and Alana Haim make up this badass trio of power females. They each play instruments to support themselves, which makes them the ultimate group of badasses.
9. Grace Potter
This Vermont-born singer with a pop/rock sound is perfect for any fun night out or drive around the city. Her edgy voice with feel good accompaniment makes her the perfect sound for your summer soundtrack. Just make sure to prepare for some hair-flipping and shouting - her music induces some serious head-banging.
10. Ryn Weaver
This boss lady from San Diego serves some serious vocals through her indie pop/alternative sound that provides a unique sound for summer. Best known for her song "OctaHate", her music will easily become your next anthem.
11. Tegan & Sara
This dynamic duo serves up some seriously good music, and they stand for awesome causes. They are both advocates for LGBTQ+ equality as well as music education, literacy, and cancer research. Obviously they're the perfect humans, and their music follows in their footsteps. I recommend their song "Closer".
12. Lauryn Hill
What an oldie but a goody. Lauryn is the definition of fierce who provides some serious tunes. Can we just talk about "Doo Wop"? You can't forget the queen when you make your next playlist...you'd be doing your ears a disservice.
13. Lily Allen
"Smile"just happens to be my roommate's (and now my) favorite song. A killer English singer whose lyrics give a kick to whoever did you wrong...what else could you want for your summer playlist?
14. M.I.A.
M.I.A. does literally everything you can think of - rapper, singer, songwriter, director - the list goes on. On top of being incredibly successful, she talks about everything from warfare and oppression in her lyrics. Overall she's everything I've ever needed. "Bad Girls" is the soundtrack of my life.
15. Mitski
There's not much that I know about Mitski, but what's most important is her sound. She's one of those singers that makes you feel free-spirited and good. Listen to her song "Townie" and you'll understand exactly what I'm saying.
Attached below is a Spotify playlist full of these female powerhouse artists and more of your favorites. This summer is all about the females who do it the best - appreciate them and enjoy your summer to the fullest. Remember: The future is female.
Thank you to my new friend, Morgan DeWitt, from the University of Alabama for reaching out to me and co-writing this article.