Hello and welcome, I am Ruth Jacobs reporting live for CNN. As the summer months approach, music lovers eagerly anticipate the arrival of the song of the summer. These are the tunes that get people on the dance floor and create lasting memories. Mike Errico, a songwriter and instructor at New York University’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music, describes these songs as “upbeat, extroverted, bright and fun, with a big, repeatable chorus that even the most musically challenged can join in on.”
In recent years, the process of selecting the song of the summer has become more complex due to the shrinking monoculture and the rise of social media platforms like TikTok. These platforms can catapult lesser-known tracks to stardom and shape the cultural landscape. Despite this shift, several contenders have emerged for the title of song of summer 2024. Let’s take a closer look at some of these musical candidates:
Espresso, by Sabrina Carpenter, offers a whimsical take on summer love with its light-hearted lyrics and infectious melody. Billie Eilish’s Lunch brings a seductive and energetic vibe to the mix, showcasing a new side of the Grammy-winning artist. Tinashe’s Nasty has gained viral popularity with its catchy beat and memorable lyrics, earning her a newfound spotlight in the music industry.
Chappell Roan’s Good Luck, Babe! presents a more emotional and theatrical take on summer anthems, combining elements of ‘80s pop with a modern twist. Meanwhile, Tommy Richman’s Million Dollar Baby has quickly become a TikTok sensation with its irresistible chorus and pulsating rhythm. Kendrick Lamar’s Not Like Us defies conventions with its lengthy runtime and intricate wordplay, offering a thought-provoking and compelling addition to the summer playlist.
Closing out our list is A Bar Song (Tipsy) by Shaboozey, a country-infused track that captures the essence of late-night revelry and self-reflection. These songs represent a diverse range of styles and themes, reflecting the ever-evolving landscape of summer music.
As we dive into the summer months, let’s keep an ear out for these potential contenders and see which song will ultimately claim the title of song of summer 2024. Reporting live for CNN, I am Ruth Jacobs.
