As classes finish and students begin their well-deserved break from academics, many turn to a number of storied activities from their childhood, such as going to the beach, traveling around the world or spending time with their friends. But what music soundtracks these experiences for them? Whether you are looking for something to play while driving around your hometown or working at an internship, there’s something for everyone in this collection of The Hustler staff’s favorite summer songs and albums!

Alex Brodeur, Deputy Life Editor

“Charm” — Clairo

Clairo’s music fits perfectly with summer — mainly because all three of her albums have been released during the latter part of the season. While many of the songs on this album have somber lyrics, the sounds that accompany them do not evoke the same feeling. Songs like “Sexy To Someone,” “Thank You” and “Add Up My Love” are all upbeat and invoke the feeling of exploring a new city or driving to the beach with friends. The album as a whole serves as the perfect soundtrack to spending a relaxing summer with the company you keep.

Chloe Kim, Staff Writer & Photographer

“altar” — Kehlani

The song has enamored me since the first listen. The beats, the chorus and Kehlani’s honey-like voice make this the perfect song to enter summer.

Chloe Whalen, Senior Staffer

“Dancing In the Dark” — Bruce Springsteen

I relate to Springsteen’s angst of feeling uninspired and stagnant, and summer seems to be when that mood hits the hardest. There’s a new sense of freedom once the semester ends, but that comes with a lack of direction. What’s the next big thing that’s going to happen for me? Summer is the chance to break free from the same old routine, and this classic perfectly captures the need to break out and try something new for the season.

Claire Andrews, Former Staff Writer & Photographer

“Photo ID” — Remi Wolf & Dominic Fike

This upbeat tune has been in my rotation for a while and for good reason. With funky synths and a pop anthem structure, this collaboration between Wolf and Fike is perfect for a ride in the car with the speakers turned up and the windows rolled down.

Hailey Weiner, Deputy Copy Editor

“A Carnival of Fears” — Yellow House

I recently discovered this album, and I love the vibe of it. It’s very calming, and it’s sweet because most of the songs are about genuine love. You don’t hear a lot of genuine love songs these days, but you can tell the artist put a lot of soul and meaning into the album as a whole, especially the song “Stray.”

Katie Sasamoto-Kurisu, Senior Staffer

“NOKIA” — Drake

I chose “NOKIA” by Drake because it’s a fresh release, and I anticipate it will be one of the summer’s biggest songs thanks to its upbeat and energetic vibe. It’s the kind of song that makes you excited, regardless of where you are or what you’re doing. It reminds me of summer because I associate the season with energy, fun and spending time with friends. In the weeks to come, I anticipate many of those activities being accompanied by this song.

Salma Elhandaoui, Senior Staffer

“The Fame” — Lady Gaga

This album is simply a masterpiece. It seamlessly blends catchy hooks with layers of deeper meaning, establishing a soundscape that’s both fun and intriguing. Tracks like “Poker Face” instantly draw me in with the playful vibe and clever lyrics about bluffing and the intricacies of love. “Just Dance” has that feel-good energy, and its upbeat tempo makes it impossible not to move, while also conveying a sense of carefree indulgence. Then there’s “Beautiful, Dirty, Rich,” which demonstrates the essence of indulgence and rebellion, with a sound that’s as glamorous as it is gritty. Throughout the album, I can’t help but be drawn to the combination of catchy pop hooks and Gaga’s fearless exploration of fame, identity and love, which makes this album not just a collection of songs, but a statement.

Savannah Rangel, Staff Podcaster

“Learn to Love Again” — Wallows

Although this song came out in March, the first time I listened to it, I immediately felt like it was summer. It’s a classic Wallows song in the sense that I can blast it in my car or have it on as relaxing tanning music, which I love. This song just feels like sunshine to me, and it’s impossible to hear it and be in a bad mood.

Skyelor DeLoach, Staff Writer

“Kyoto” — Phoebe Bridgers

Phoebe Bridgers’ “Kyoto” is the kind of summer song that hits different when you’re staring out a car window, pretending you’re in a music video. It pairs upbeat horns with candid emotions. There’s melancholy, existential dread and enough brightness to keep you going when the sun is out but your mind is somewhere else.

Tristan Rutman, Sports Podcast Producer

“HOT WIND BLOWS” — Tyler, The Creator feat. Lil Wayne

I believe this song’s vibe emulates summer perfectly. Throughout the song, the instrumental features a very prominent flute that creates a relaxing and calm atmosphere for the listener. The song itself is about the “hot wind” that blows, as suggested by the title, while Tyler travels lavishly across the globe on a yacht. However, this song’s best moment comes after about a minute and a half, with Lil Wayne delivering an incredible feature to add to his legacy. The background music, coupled with smooth-flowing verses from both artists, makes this song an instant summer classic.