It's funny how the music we listen to changes with the seasons. In the winter I find myself listening to slow folk and acoustic songs that make me feel cosy on the inside. But in the summer it's all about dance, soul and R&B. The kind of music that has me moonwalking my way to the back garden with a cold beer in my hand despite the fact that it's a rainy Monday evening.
When we were growing up my Mum would play music in the kitchen in the evenings especially in the summer when the back door would be thrown open and the music would filter in to the garden. She had a big influence on my taste in music and introduced me to artists I'm still in love with today; Prince, Marvin Gaye, Bill Withers, Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone, KC & the Sunshine Band. We listened to songs that taught us how to move and that allowed us to lose ourselves in the rhythm. Songs that taught us soul and about things we were too young to understand (singing along to Prince lyrics as an eight year old is a little disturbing looking back).
I thought I might share a few of my favourites that have become my summer anthems over the years. These are the tunes that I play loudly after a shitty day at work and are guaranteed to lift me up and remind me that it's summer and there is no call for being sad. They are the summeriest of summer songs and you have my total permission to use them for your own summer soundtrack. I recommend being barefoot and having all the windows open. Just don't blame me if the neighbours get at ya!!
Michael Jackson - Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough
Say what you will about MJ but this song is a classic disco tune that will have you moonwalking your slippers.
Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
Ugh, Fleetwood Mac and their friggin' melodies get me everytime.
Van Morrisson - Into The Mystic
"Smell the sea and feel the sky; let your soul and spirit fly in to the mystic". Lyrics that floored me as a teenager.
Beyoncé - Crazy in Love
Because you can't have a summer party without Queen B.
Bob Marley - Three Little Birds
This song reminds me of a trip I took around SE Asia with two of my best friends. We got matching tattoos of three birds on our ribcage and every time this song comes on we have a knowing look between the three of us.
10cc - Dreadlock Holiday
The second this song is on I slow down and smile.
Toto - Africa
I love trying to sing along to this song, especially in my car when I know I terrify all other drivers.
Prince - Raspberry Beret
Probably his least filthy song so you can play it a family party.
Marvin Gaye - Got To Give It Up
Makes me want to have a glamorous poolside party in California.
Will Smith - Miami
Cheesy but so so good!!
Cornershop - Brimful of Asha (Norman Cook Remix)
An oldie but a goodie.
Len - Steal my Sunshine
Despite this being played on every day the sun shines in Ireland I still love it.
U2 - I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
The guitars, the drums, the vocals. An Irish classic.
Angus & Julia Stone - Mango Tree
Brings the tempo down for sure but this brother/sister duo melts my summer hear.
LCD Soundsystem - Daft Punk Is Playing In My House
To be played loudly preferably with some couch dancing.
The Clash - Rock the Casbah
This was my ringtone in Uni I loved it that much.
The Knack - My Sharona
I defy you not to dance to this song!!
Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes - 40 Day Dream
The happiest of summer songs that has me stamping my little hooves with sheer glee.
All Saints - Pure Shores
No one can do 90's beach chic like All Saints
Jurassic 5 - Work It Out
This is my summer bath tune. Yes that is a thing.
Fatboy Slim - Praise You
A song that will never go out of style. Never.
No Comments