Summer is just about here and thank f*****g goodness. My already depleted stash of energy — that I prepped for a whole season of mental hibernation — has been restored to a decent percentage of "sane."
Finally, the days are warmer, the sun eventually made its way to the party and everyone is driving around with windows down and blaring their favorite tunes. The only way to start celebrating the best season is with a proper "Summer 2KXX" playlist.
My favorite part about stacking a playlist full of different artists is that no matter what style or genre the music is, it all just seems to blend really well together into the soundtrack of your summer.
I tend to discover so much new music this way, and sometimes, I find a song or group that surprises me with their music.
Not many of my friends and peers enjoy EDM (electronic dance music), but there are so many good songs out right now that will easily turn any music lover into an EDM fan. Venturing out of your musical comfort zone will give you the good vibes you need to fully enjoy your summer.
Just to get you started, I have compiled a list of some feelgood EDM songs that I am definitely adding to my own "Summer 2KXX" playlist.
1. "Final Song" — MØ
This one by MØ will be a good way to dip your toes into the EDM pool. It is a fun song to dance to and if you listen to the lyrics, this has potential to be your "summer fling" song. Maybe you meet someone you really click with, but know that when summer ends your new fling will end, too. At least when you hear this song again after your summer of love, you will be brought back to those good times with that person.
2. "Tell Me You Love Me" — Galantis
Galantis and Throttle make you just NEED to dance. You cannot control it, so do not fight it and let this song put you in an instant good mood.
3. "Crazy" — Lost Frequencies
Lost Frequencies is my current EDM obsession because his songs are consistently fun, catchy and have a way of making me smile, no matter what kind of mood I'm in.
4. "Melody" — Lost Frequencies
Lost Frequencies makes the list again because who knew the world needed a "tropical house" DJ and James Blunt collaboration?
5. "Caskets" — Party Favor & NJOMZA
Party Favor and NJOMZA give us the best song for that summer IDGAF attitude. I feel like the summer months are perfect for growing, changing and learning what kind of person you are and want to be. It is a season where transformation and a clean slate are possible and listening to this song on your way to a new place for vacation or long-term travel will be the best addition to your playlist.
6. "The Middle" — Zedd
Zedd is well-known enough that he has become mainstream, collaborating with dozens of high profile singers; and every song somehow gets better than the other. Since so many people will be familiar with this song, you can crank it up at that summer party and everyone can sing along.
7. "Let's Escape" — Vigiland
Vigiland is a newer artist (to me at least) and this song is the best way to get pumped for a weekend road trip to the beach with all of your friends. Listen to this song the entire work week and then once Friday finally arrives you will be fully charged for a weekend of sunshine and good times.
8. "The Nights" — Avicii
I obviously needed to pay tribute to a favorite artist of mine, Avicii (RIP). This is not a new song by any means, but every time I hear it, I am brought back to the highlights of my summer shenanigans with friends.
9. "Stargazing" — Kygo
Kygo cannot go wrong with any of his music. He is so talented on the piano (yes, DJs can play actual instruments) and has collaborated with so many talented singers to create beautiful and feel-good tracks. This song is perfect for a night of casually drinking beers at a bonfire (even better if the skies are clear for real-life stargazing).
10. "Pumped Up" — Klingade
Klingade is another tropical-style genre and their sings always put me in a peaceful mind space. This song will sound familiar since much of the chorus comes from a popular song (of the same name) by Foster The People. The words are the same, but instead, they are sung by children (which somehow works). Put this song on when you have to drive to work or the store, with the windows down, and you will be set up for a chill day.
11. "Come Back For You" — Elephante
Elephante's songs are, in my opinion, a perfect balance between EDM and indie-folk. I sing along to this song at the top of my lungs (when I am alone). The smooth vocals and clear instrumentals make this a great song to introduce to your friends that claim they "hate" EDM. Be careful, though, this song is addicting.
12. "Peanut Butter Jelly" — Galantis
Galantis makes my list again with this song because it is pure joy in song form. I just want to smile and dance when this song comes on. I finally saw Galantis perform live in Orlando at EDC: Orlando last November, and not only was the set just as energetic as their radio versions, but every person at the stage was jumping around and laughing (even if we had all been dancing around the entire day in the sun).
13. "Hot Like Sauce" — Pretty Lights
Pretty Lights is definitely more electronic and trance than most of the other songs on this list, but layers and levels of sound in this song are smooth and will put all of your stress and anxieties at ease. I can almost feel myself breathe easier when I put this one on.
14. "BOOM" — Tiesto
Tiesto has always been a favorite of mine, and his styles change from time-to-time, but never stray from his club-based roots. When this song is on, I cannot help but to crank up the volume to an almost uncomfortable level. It isn't exactly the kind of song you put on at a family barbecue, but if you and your friends are getting ready for a night out, then this is a great track for your wild summer nights.
15. "Sunny Days" — Armin Van Buuren
Armin Van Buuren consistently releases amazing music. I have seen him live many times and his sets are incredible. There is a reason why he is a top DJ and this song can be a great introduction to both EDM and Van Buuren's music. The lyrics are basically describing every sunny summer day, and you won't be able to keep yourself from enjoying it.
I know that EDM is not always a genre that is taken seriously, but it is gaining much more mainstream popularity. Try something new this summer and venture out of your usual music comfort zone by giving some electronic genres a shot
Plus, knowing some popular electronic tracks will help you sing along if (when) you attend any big-name festivals this summer.