At last! The weather is glorious, and the perfect time for our Summer of 2025 Playlist! We’ve gathered songs that make us feel happy, hopeful, and dare we say…hot? (as in the temperature outside 🙂). This list is a compilation of 17 songs (one hour and nine minutes of music) from Khruangbin and Leon Bridges to Kenny Chesney. Some songs will get your toes tappin’ and others will invite you to slow down and take it all in—the weather, the break, and the breeze.
Enjoy!
DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince – Summertime: This iconic track perfectly captures the laid-back feel of summer days, from cruising around town to neighborhood barbecues. Its smooth beat and nostalgic lyrics instantly transport you to warmer, carefree times.
Jonathan Richman – That Summer Feeling: With its quirky charm and infectious melody, this song embodies the innocent joy and fleeting romance associated with summer. Richman’s unique voice makes you feel like you’re experiencing those sweet moments right alongside him.
Khruangbin & Leon Bridges – Texas Sun: This collaboration is a smooth and soulful journey through the Texas landscape. Bridges’ warm vocals blend with Khruangbin’s signature hazy, instrumental grooves, creating a sound that feels like a relaxing afternoon drive with the windows down. When my daughter shared her playlist, I had to know–who is this? and I’ve been listening to it on repeat ever since.
Sheryl Crow – Soak Up The Sun: An anthem of optimism, this song’s catchy chorus and upbeat energy are pure sunshine in musical form. It’s the perfect soundtrack for embracing the warmth and good times that summer brings.
Steely Dan – My Old School: This classic rock song with the in-your-face lyrics stirs up feelings of freedom, and brings back days of bolting out the words, “I’m never going back to my old…SCHOOOOL!” on the last day of each school year-until the end.
Beyoncé – Freedom: Speaking of freedom, this powerful and uplifting song resonates with a sense of liberation and brings back days of hope. Its message of breaking free makes it an inspiring addition to any summertime mix.
The Foundations – Build Me Up Buttercup: The energy and upbeat tempo scream summer fun. Its playful lyrics make it the perfect singalong anthem for carefree days and warm nights (and reminds me of my time on the high school dance team oh-so-long-ago. “5-6-7-8…”)
Kenny Chesney – Summertime: This country song embodies the summer with its themes of beach days, cold drinks, and easy living. It’s a laid-back and familiar tune perfect for kicking back.
Outcast – Hey Ya!: With its infectious energy and quirky fun, the song is a guaranteed mood-booster for any summer occasion. Its upbeat tempo and call-and-response sections make it impossible to stay still!
Black Eyed Peas – I Gotta Feeling: This high-energy track is the ultimate party song, perfect for those carefree summer nights. Its big beat is all about having a good time.
Tracey Chapman – Fast Car: The O.G. of Fast Car is Tracey – although we enjoy Luke Combs’ version too. (Did you have a chance to see Chapman and Combs’ performance at the Grammy Awards? Wow!) The narrative of escape ignites the desire for freedom and new beginnings that summertime inspires.
Tom Petty – Free Fallin’: With its laid-back vibe and iconic chorus about letting go, Petty embodies that feeling of endless possibilities. It’s the perfect soundtrack for sunsets and carefree adventures.
Amy Winehouse – Valerie: Winehouse’s soulful and slightly melancholic take on this classic adds a layer of timeless cool to the playlist. Her distinctive voice brings a depth and emotion that feels perfect for those reflective summer evenings.
Mark Ambor – Good To Be: This is the kind of song that makes you appreciate the simple pleasures of summer and the joy of just being. His voice is soothing, comforting; which combines to make you want to listen longer.
OneRepublic – Sunshine: True to its name, this song is bright and optimistic, with an infectious energy that makes you want to dance. (What are you waiting for?) It’s a perfect soundtrack for sunny days and feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin.
ROSÉ & Bruno Mars – APT: This collaboration brings a smooth blend of their distinct styles, promising a sophisticated and groovy track that could easily accompany a stylish summer gathering or a relaxed evening in. (Who says “groovy”?)
Sabrina Carpenter – Espresso: This recent hit brings a fresh and playful energy to the playlist. Its catchy melody and confident chords make it a fun and flirty addition for sun-drenched days.
About the Author
Susanne Leslie is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and a Master’s in Education. As a former parent educator, Susanne’s specialty is Culture, Wellness, and Early Childhood instruction. In her current role, she writes courses and content, and is an enthusiastic advocate for play and time outdoors as the best teaching tools.
Fun Fact: Susanne has jumped out of two (perfectly good) airplanes!
