Pump Up The Jams

The first barbecue of the summer is right around the corner. And since your kabobs totally, err, kabombed last time around, you've been put in charge of tunes.

To help you get the party started, we asked some of our favorite local musicians to share their top summer songs. The result? A cool little playlist perfect for days of fun in the sun.


1."July Flame," by Laura Veirs

Sabrina Velazquez, singer: "Taken all together, the song’s lyrics encapsulate everything about summer. It's perfect to listen to after a long day at the beach and it’s about summer love. And who doesn't like that?"

2. “Let’s Go Surfing,” by The Drums

Mike Pooley, vocalist and guitarist, Painted Highways: "This song makes me think of three blonde dudes who look like Johnny from Karate Kid excitedly jumping into a red convertible bug and zipping along the coastline—a perfect summer moment." 

3. “Baby I’m Yours,” by Breakbot feat. Irfane

DJ Eskae, Nocturnal Sound Krew: " Summer love songs are my guilty pleasure and this Breakbot song is no exception. French disco house and declarations of love will definitely warm hearts and get dance floors hot."

4. “Billionaire,” by Travie McCoy feat. Bruno Mars

John Cruz, singer: "It’s got a classic summer vibe and it features local boy Peter Hernandez, a.k.a. Bruno Mars, on vocals."

 
5. “Fresh Air,” by Brother Ali

Kasi Nunes, lead vocalist, Kings of Spade: "Not only does this song remind you to appreciate the beauty in life, but it’s so funky and up-beat you can't not dance to it. "

6. "King Cobra," by The Budos Band

Kitty Chow, dj and lead vocalist, Soul Revival Sound System: "This track is a juicy background for a lazy, hot, sultry day beside the pool. It will set the mood for you and that special someone."

7. “Paradise Life Relaxin’" , by Creed Chameleon feat. Geo and Bambu

Tassho Pearce, a.k.a. Emirc: "Creed Chameleon and Seattle and L.A. heavyweights trade bars over this soulful track, produced by Osna. The title says it all. It's definitely a dope track to ride out to this summer."

8. "Love," by Erykah Badu

Ara Laylo, lead vocalist, Clones of the Queen: "When it's summer and hot in my house, I like to sit by the window, sip on a cool beverage and listen to grooves like this."

9. “Tiki,” by The Waitiki 7

Eric Lagrimas, drummer, Pimpbot: "Fresh and groovy, it’s classic exotica for modern listeners. The Waitiki 7 has roots in Hawai‘i, but is now based in Boston and performs at festivals all over the world."