The right tunes to get Blazers in the mood for vacation
It's almost the time of year everyone's been waiting for: summer break! With less than two weeks of school left, many Blazers have already started thinking about the relaxing vacations and stress-free weeks they'll be having in the coming months. Most minds are already far away from University Boulevard, whether people are planning on staying home this summer or venturing overseas. As the final week of stress and exams approach, here are some upbeat, fun songs that'll have you ready to bust out the doors on June 16.
"Summertime" – DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince
An obvious choice, this classic song's references to the little things that make summer perfect are exactly why it made this list. Even just taking the time for a quick look at the "Summertime" video will make any student want to run to the beach or head to the nearest barbecue to kick back and enjoy the weather. Also an added plus, this is one of those old-school songs that everybody knows the words to, so throw it on and tell everyone to join in.
Download "Summertime" on iTunes
"Metropol" – Christoph Andersson
Most Blazers probably haven't heard of Christoph Andersson yet, but his music has begun to become increasingly popular in the electronic world and for a good reason. His laidback, relaxed sound is perfect for coasting cross country, whether by car or plane. The synth driven "Metropol" provides tons of energy to keep the party going, while the re-sampling that Andersson does through the house tune is polished and ties all the aspects of the song together beautifully.
"Rolling in the Heat" – Adele and Jamie xx (The Heatwave Remix)
Adele had one of the biggest singles of the year with "Rolling in the Deep," but producer Heatwave has decided to take Adele's masterpiece and transform it into an ambitious dancehall number that's sure to get people on their feet. The song is a definite reminder of summer – just look at the title – and Heatwave succeeds in changing the slower ballad to an up-tempo hit. With special dancehall guests Cecile, Mr. Lexx and Timberlee to add their spice to the song, this version of Adele's hit is an in-your-face reminder of the upcoming summer season.
Listen to "Rolling in the Heat" on YouTube
"Someday" – The Strokes
Although the lyrics to this Strokes classic may not directly relate to summer, the song's catchy hook and bouncy beat makes it ideal for blasting through an iPod or jamming to in the car as you cruise on a hot summer day. Lead singer Julian Casablancas' voice is also one of the reasons "Someday" is so beautiful; it's easy to get carried away singing alongside during the chorus.
"Heatwave" – Chiddy Bang ft. Mac Miller, Trae the Truth & Casey Veggies
This track off of the new Chiddy Bang mixtape "Peanut Butter and Swelly," features hot new artists that are blowing up on the music scene. Sampling "Heatwave" by Martha and the Vandellas, Xaphoon Jones (the producer in the duo Chiddy Bang) helps transform this song into a summer hit by updating the beat and making it easy to jam to. Additional verses by Mac Miller, Casey Veggies (of Odd Future fame) and Trae the Truth add some lyrical diversity, making it stand out among other Chiddy Bang songs. And of course, the chorus provides a clear reference to the rising temperatures that are an overwhelming part of our D.C. summers.
Download "Heatwave" on Mediafire
"Talamak" – Toro y Moi
For those slow summer days, "Talamak" is one the best songs to play while lying in bed or when taking a walk. The lines in this song blur between soft vocals and traditional hip-hop; an eclectic sound that seems to work just right for Toro y Moi. "Talamak" is just right for those long summer days and even longer summer nights.
Melissa Haniff. Melissa loves music, One Tree Hill, traveling and experiencing new cultures. She is also a diehard Patriots, Red Wings, Pistons and University of Michigan fan...Go Blue! More »
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