List #217: Songs of Summer

Every summer needs a few good songs. Songs that go perfectly with sunglasses and iced tea. Songs that make you want to stay up late and get a hickey like you did in high school. And songs that make you want to dance until the sweat is dripping down your back.

In my opinion, the best summer jam list is a conglomeration of past and present. It might, for instance, look a little like this.

DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince ~ Summertime

I think this was the first summer song that I remember hearing. The one that actually made me realize that summer might be more than just catching fireflies in my backyard. 

Ricky Martin ~ Living La Vida Loca

This song was huge the summer before I left college. When I listen to it today it reminds me of what was probably my most carefree summer and all of the hope one feels as they stand on that edge.

Katy Perry ~ Teenage Dream

I don't even remember the specific year this song was released. But I think it's impossible not to want to wear skimpy clothing and eat ice cream with a boy when you hear it.

Len ~ Steal My Sunshine

I did a quick Twitter survey for favorite summer songs. This one received multiple votes. I think it was made for the beach. 

LFO ~ Summer Girls

Fun Fact:  I first heard this song while sunbathing in Ocean City, Maryland when I was on my senior trip. My girlfriends and I were listening to a boom box, I was still skinny enough to wear a bikini, and I didn't worry about sun damage or skin cancer. And any song that references Alex P. Keaton wins.

Carly Rae Jepsen ~ Call Me Maybe

In 2012 this song became a summer song for the decades. It's a song we'll be reminiscing to our children about when we're old and listening to the radio on the porch. 

Nelly ~ Hot in Herre

This song was popular in the summer, right? Either way, it reminds me of barely being able to drink and sweating on dance floors in skirts.

 Robin Thicke Featuring Pharrell & T.I. ~ Blurred Lines

If you've been near me in the last three weeks you've heard me talk about how I think this is the sexiest song I've heard in 2013. This is my official summer song. Catchy, steamy, and naughty. Don't worry, this video is the one featuring less naked.

So dear readers, I'm sure I missed quite a few of your favorite summer songs. Why don't you go ahead and leave your pick in the comments.  I'd love to listen.