There is no shortage of great new music to listen to this summer, with many of Gen-Z's most talented artists having recently released new albums and many more anticipated releases coming out over the next few months. Here's a closer look at 10 of 2024's best songs that also provide the perfect vibe for any adventure you're going on this summer.
1. "Risk" by Gracie Abrams
Fresh off of her GRAMMY nomination for Best New Artist, Gracie Abrams is releasing her second studio album, The Secret of Us, on June 21. The first single from the album, "Risk," is all about spontaneity and stepping out of your comfort zone to go for something that feels right.
The song's lyrics, especially "God, I'm jumping in the deep end / It's more fun to swim in," will encourage you to be brave and try new things this summer.
2. "Good Luck, Babe!" by Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan has taken over the pop scene this year, gaining an even wider fanbase after opening for Olivia Rodrigo on the first leg of her "GUTS World Tour." She is known for her incredible style on stage and her influence on LGBTQ+ pop. According to a Capital article, "Good Luck, Babe!" was written "about dating a closeted girl who refuses to acknowledge their relationship" and "wishing good luck to someone who is denying fate." The track is one of the best pop songs of 2024 so far and is extremely fun to sing and dance along to.
3. “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter
"Espresso" has been one of pop singer and actress Sabrina Carpenter's most successful hits to date, spending the last five weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. It has also become a trending hit on TikTok, with many influencers and artists lip-synching to the catchy lyrics, "I'm working late 'cause I'm a singer." From "Espresso's" cheerful instrumentation and self-confident lyrics to its accompanying music video set on a beach, the entire song screams summer.
4. "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" by Billie Eilish
"BIRDS OF A FEATHER" is currently one of the most popular songs by Gen-Z superstar Billie Eilish. It is the fourth track on her newly-released album HIT ME HARD AND SOFT and was recently featured in a trailer for Netflix's teen romance show Heartstopper. One of the main themes of "BIRDS OF A FEATHER" is sticking with the people you love and those who love you the most. This makes it the perfect fun yet meaningful track to blast on a summer road trip with those who are most important to you.
5. "so american" by Olivia Rodrigo
"so american" was released as a bonus track on pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo's deluxe album GUTS (spilled). It tells the story of an American girl being in an exciting relationship with a boy from a different country, which many believe refers to Rodrigo's current relationship with British actor Louis Partridge. No matter who you are or what country you're from, this song will help you fulfill your dreams of a romantic summer abroad, Lizzy McGuire style.
6. "Deeply Still in Love" by ROLE MODEL
Although ROLE MODEL (aka Tucker Pillsbury) may be one of the lesser-known artists on this list, he is just as talented. He deserves a nod for "Deeply Still in Love," the second single from his upcoming sophomore album Kansas Anymore. "Deeply Still in Love" is a very upbeat yet deep indie-pop song about the denial of watching a former lover move on while you are still in love with them.
While this theme may not come to mind when thinking of summer, the song's cheerful tone and fast-paced beat will make you believe otherwise.
7. "The Golden Years" by Joshua Bassett
On the topic of sad songs that still give off a lively mood, Joshua Bassett's new single "The Golden Years" is next on this list. This track is all about yearning for the past, looking back, and realizing that the "good old days" were some of the best days to have lived.
This theme is strongly expressed regarding the time spent with someone you are no longer in a relationship with. "The Golden Years" is very relatable to any breakup you've experienced, whether it be a romantic or friendship breakup, and it is a good listen for when you're sad but still want to enjoy the summer ahead.
8. "Bourgeoisieses" by Conan Gray
If you're looking for a nostalgic, 1980s, Stranger Things-style track to vibe to this summer, look no further than "Bourgeosieses" by Conan Gray (or really any track from his new album Found Heaven). The song reflects on Conan's experience growing up as a "low-class guy" and wanting to be a bourgeois or "a middle-class person." The chorus of "Bourgeoisieses" will be stuck in your head all day, and the song's themes are reminiscent of a Great Gatsby vibe.
9. "False Starts" by ZAYN
If you're facing a big transition this summer and are unsure of the future, former One Directioner ZAYN's "False Starts" from his album Room Under The Stairs is for you. The song projects an acoustic, late summer vibe and reflects on major life changes and the experience of leaving a part of yourself in the past.
These hard-hitting lyrics will resonate with you whether you're anticipating starting at a new school or planning another big change this summer.
10. "Training Season" by Dua Lipa
To end on a lighter note, "Training Season," from Dua Lipa's new album Radical Optimism, is the absolute perfect energetic bop for any workout. Whether practicing your favorite sport or hitting the gym, you'll surely find yourself moving in time to the insanely catchy beat and singing along. "Training Season" will motivate you to stay active and achieve all your workout goals this summer and beyond.
Hopefully, this list has inspired you to prepare for the summer by listening to some great new songs. You can easily stream and add any or all of these songs to your playlists by following the Spotify link below!
