Everyone wants to make the most of the summer, from beach days to grinding for that summer paycheck.
Ever since the spring, ideas of manifestation and affirmations have been on the rise again but with the spin of Gen Z humor. A popular TikTok and Instagram Reels audio is used for people to display messages ranging from “manifesting a summer internship your way” to “manifesting you a tall, fit boyfriend.”
Music is another great way to start thinking of your goals and get into the right mindset. Here are some song selections curated to inspire the kind of summer you desire and start manifesting it into reality.
For the Worker Bees: Songs to fuel that summer job or internship
Focusing on work when the sun is out can use some extra motivation. Here are some upbeat songs to get you focused and pumped about your busy schedule and that incoming paycheck.
“Go Gina” – SZA
“Go Gina” from SZA’s 2017 debut album, “Ctrl,” still hits eight years later. With lyrics like “I’ve been on the low-key, grinding” and “go get that, get right, mama,” SZA motivates you to remember your own grind. Her catchy chorus will definitely get you into a groove (even if your name’s not Gina).
“6 Inch (feat. The Weeknd) – Beyoncé
We all remember Beyoncé’s iconic album “Lemonade.” The sometimes forgotten alternative R&B track “6 Inch” is the perfect song for chasing that bag this summer. Beyoncé’s lyrics “she works for the money” and “she grinds from Monday to Friday, works from Friday to Sunday” are relatable for self-proclaimed “Worker Bees” who stay booked and busy.
“Busy Woman” – Sabrina Carpenter
Speaking of staying busy, the deluxe track “Busy Woman” from Carpenter’s “Short n’ Sweet” provides the perfect excuse to brush off anyone who doesn’t value your time. The dance-pop track with a hint of country provides the lyrics “I’m a busy woman / I wouldn’t let you come into my calendar any night.” This reminds those with packed schedules not to waste their time on those who don’t deserve it.
“WRK” – JID
JID’s newest upcoming album, “God Does Like Ugly,” is set to release in August. The lead single “WRK” provides a bass-heavy soundtrack to remind you to get up and work, literally. The repeating chorus of the track is inspired by his old football coach’s “let’s go to work” mantra, which will provide the push anyone needs to continue their journey to bigger and better things.
“Dirty Cash (Money Talks) – Sold Out 7 Inch Mix” – The Adventures Of Stevie V
This 1989 classic combines house music and hip-hop to create an upbeat dance song perfect for those manifesting that paycheck this summer. The title of the song is featured in the famous lines “money talks / dirty cash, I want you, dirty cash, I need you.” Whether you need the boost on the way to work or celebrate your day off on the dance floor, this song has got you covered.
Every summer is hot girl summer: Songs for the girls
We all remember the summer of 2019 when “Hot Girl Summer” was officially coined and subsequently associated with rap icon Megan Thee Stallion. Last year’s “Brat Summer” was also one to remember, but let’s not stop the energy there. Here are some songs for the girls, because every summer is Hot Girl Summer.
“Hot Girl (Bodies Bodies Bodies)” – Charli xcx
It may not be “Brat Summer,” but Charli xcx is still getting her plays. Created for the A24 film “Bodies Bodies Bodies,” “Hot Girl” is an unapologetic anthem that oozes confidence. With a mix of hyperpop and a hint of trap rap, the song is perfect for a night out or simply strutting down the street.
“Where Them Girls At” – Megan Thee Stallion
The Hot Girl herself, Megan Thee Stallion, has plenty of hits to choose from, but “Where Them Girls At” is a great pick for gathering up with the girls. The catchy sample from Kstylis repeats the title of the track, making the song easy to vibe to with a crowd.
“Alter Ego” – Doechii & JT
Doechii and JT continue to make waves in the rap industry, and this collab is the perfect track to dance the night away this summer. Doechii coins this genre as “editorial rap,” which combines Eurodance with rap. This high-energy song inspires the girls to find their alter ego and remain “unfazed, unbothered” this summer.
“Diet Pepsi” – Addison Rae
The lead single for her debut album, “Addison,” was Rae’s break into the alt-pop genre and was reminiscent of an older Lana Del Rey style. Lyrics about driving around with your lover and “sippin’ Diet Pepsi” provide a dreamy and sexy vibe for your summer.
“Give (with Monaleo)” – Genia
Another amazing collab for the girls, “Give” combines pop, R&B, and rap for an upbeat summer vibe. Genia’s lyrics “I stay on their mind / I be hotter than a summer day, colder than the wintertime” are the perfect reminder that summer really is for the girls.
Summer romance is in the air: Songs for your summer fling
It’s a trope as old as time, but summer flings are as prominent as ever in the age of the situationship and looming fear of commitment. Whether fun and flirty or plain bittersweet, here are some songs to inspire your summer romance.
“August” – Taylor Swift
A summer classic, “August” encapsulates the angst and yearning of wishing it wasn’t just a summer fling. From the reluctant acknowledgment that the summer is slipping away to the proclamation of “so much for summer love,” “August” is a bittersweet ballad to remember it all.
“Talk” – beabadoobee
Beabadoobee’s pop punk song “Talk” represents how indulging in a romance against your better judgment can’t be helped sometimes. She simultaneously describes her lover as a “bad decision” and as going “together like the gum on my shoes.” “Talk” is the perfect soundtrack to let loose and have fun being young and infatuated.
“Summer Love” – Justin Timberlake
Taking it back to 2007, Timberlake’s R&B-inspired dance-pop track takes a more optimistic approach to summer love. His repeating lyrics of “this just can’t be summer love, you’ll see” will resonate with those trying to prove they’re relationship material this summer.
“Juna” – Clairo
Clairo’s jazzy pop-soul track “Juna” is flirty, sexy and as she says, makes you “want to go dancing.” This song is perfect for getting into a new relationship that’s fun and fresh. Everyone should find someone who makes them want to “go buy a new dress.”
“Summer’s Over” – Jordana & TV Girl
This dreamy indie pop collab feels like watching the sun set on the last day of summer, nostalgic and reflective. Over the retro guitar sounds, lyrics like “summer’s over / guess you won’t be coming over / good to meet you, nice to know you” reflect a sense of acceptance over this summer romance coming to an end.
Salt and suntans: Songs for the perfect beach day
Whether you find yourself by a beach, lake, or pool this summer, hot summer days require the perfect soundtrack. Here are some songs that give off the perfect vibe for a beach day.
“Island In The Sun” – Weezer
Weezer’s 2001 alt-rock track “Island In The Sun” features a laid-back and iconic instrumental that provides the perfect background for a chill day in the sun. “When you’re on a golden sea / You don’t need no memory” provides the perfect reminder to sit back and let your worries drift away.
“Sweet Life” – Frank Ocean
Featured on Ocean’s debut studio album “Channel Orange,” “Sweet Life” has an interesting contrast between its funky and jazzy instrumentals and reflective lyrics on wealth and luxury. Ocean’s lyrics are for those who love irony and desire a higher level of analytical thinking, even in the summertime.
“3 Nights” – Dominic Fike
While Fike has many summer classics, we have to remember the debut single that helped start it all. “3 Nights” has a simple guitar riff that feels like sitting around a beach bonfire. You don’t need to be listening from “The City of Palms,” aka Fort Myers, Florida, because the song will bring the beachy vibe of a hot summer night wherever you are.
“What You Know” – Two Door Cinema Club
The upbeat guitar riffs of this 2010s indie rock classic hook listeners in instantly and will get you ready to move. This song has good vibes all around, perfect for a casual beach or pool party with friends.
“Doin’ Time” – Sublime
“Doin’ Time” blends ska punk and reggae for a groovy and laid-back tune ideal for a relaxing day at the beach. Opening with the lyrics “summertime, and the living’s easy” sets the tone for the song and is a reminder to kick back and enjoy the summer.
On the road again: Songs for your summer road trip
Summer is the perfect excuse to hop in the car and start exploring with friends, family, or even solo. Being stuck in the car can start to get boring, so here are some songs to push through and keep driving.
“Ventura Highway” – America
Something about road trips feels nostalgic for an older time. This 1972 soft rock hit has an iconic guitar opener that will take you back. Inspired by driving along the coast of California, this song is perfect for road trips and to feel how “the free wind is blowin’ through your hair.”
“We Are The People” – Empire Of The Sun
This indie electric pop song is somehow both laid back and made for dancing. The dreamy vibe of the song is perfect for balancing a relaxed driving state with wanting to dance in your seat a little.
“Brazil” – Declan McKenna
The opening to McKenna’s debut single “Brazil” is instantly recognizable. A staple in the indie rock genre, this song feels like a perfect summer day. Its repeating chorus makes it fun to sing along in the car or just vibe to the rhythm.
“Acolyte” – Slaughter Beach, Dog
With soft acoustics and vocals, “Acolyte” is both romantic and sparks a sense of adventure. With lyrics like “Gotta get out of Ohio / Feeling short on time,” this song evokes the feeling of escaping your hometown in search of something new.
“Californication” – Red Hot Chili Peppers
This guitar-filled 1999 alt-rock classic is great for changing up your drive as it alternates between mellow verses and its upbeat chorus. It’s recognizable, easy to vibe to, and perfect for enduring a long road trip.
A summer of opportunity
The summer presents many opportunities for how you can spend your time. Whatever your goals are this summer, music is a great way to set your mindset and manifest what you want from it. Pick some songs that resonate with your summer plans and enjoy having a curated soundtrack that fits your summer.
