Song of the Summer Predictions

Image by Mark Angelo

Many of us are spending summer 2021 transitioning from complete lockdown and isolation to semi-crowded public spaces and maybe even an outdoor concert or two. It goes without saying that we all need some music to keep us going through what seems to be a never-ending unprecedented time. While everyone has their own music preferences, I have selected three recent releases that have entered mainstream, popular culture which I believe will top the charts. Make sure these songs are queued on your Spotify playlist next time you’re jamming out. Check out a full summer playlist here. 

brutal by Olivia Rodrigo 

Olivia Rodrigo’s “brutal” has been in the shadow of “good 4 u” and “drivers license” for too long. Rodrigo’s entire album Sour has been topping all the charts and Rodrigo herself has been the artist to talk about this summer. I strongly recommend taking a listen (or a re-listen) to the album’s opening song, brutal. This 90s-indie grunge song is perfect to blast in your car with all the windows down and bask in being the main character. I personally get Kat Stratford from 10 Things I Hate About You vibes and I’m obsessed with it. This pop cross punk anthem digs up the best kind of teenage angst and reminds us that social expectations and the pressure that comes with them shouldn’t dictate our choices, perfect for a freeing summer. 

Solar Power by Lorde

Solar Power’s lyric “I’m kinda like a prettier Jesus” says everything you need to know  about Lorde’s recent release. After disappearing from the music scene for 3 years, Lorde burst back into the music world this summer with a brand new voice. It seems she’s grown out of her dark-pop and into a brighter, happier style. The song is literally about the power of the sun, which is essentially the best part of the summer. The lyrics are catchy and witty.  Her recent release is definitely the go-to song for lounging on the beach rocking a yellow outfit like Lorde. 

Kiss Me More by Doja Cat (feat. SZA)

Of course, I had to include a famous Tik Tok song! Kiss Me More by Doja Cat (feat. SZA) fits the song of the summer bill because of its poppy beats and light-hearted lyrics. After spending such a long time in quarantine, the line “I feel like f*cking something” hit home for many singles who now want to have a hot girl summer (whatever that means to you). Kiss Me More invites anyone to get up and dance and celebrate some of our new freedoms. 

By Marla Hiller

La Croix obsessed, coffee addicted, podcast fanatic.