Sounds of Summer – A Soundtrack for Fun!

Everyone has a few of those songs–music that evokes memories. For me the ones that really seem to have impact are those I associate with summer—happy memories of time away from school and responsibility.

To acknowledge the power of pop music, we’ve created a Soundtrack for Summer Starter Kit! Here are 20 favorites, old and new. Some you may know by heart, and others may be a bit more obscure, but trust me, they’re all made for fun in the sun! Use this list as inspiration to create your own soundtrack for the family activities we love from coast-to-coast and everywhere in between.

“Happy” by Pharrell—This one is guaranteed to get everyone up and ready to enjoy the day!

“Saturday Sun” By Vance Joy—This indie pop song has a catchy refrain to make you smile.

“My Girl” by The Temptations—”I’ve got sunshine on a cloudy day…” Just what we all need!

“Vacation” by Dirty Heads—Don’t let the group’s name fool you—they’re good clean fun!

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA—With the sequel to Mama Mia hitting the big screen this summer, why not indulge in this ABBA anthem?

“Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper—Perfect for a mommy-daughter road trip!

“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys—What would summer be without the Beach Boys? Seriously, it doesn’t matter how old you are—their music speaks fluent sand and sun.

“Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” by Wham! The 80’s never sounded so good!

“You Make My Dreams” by Hall and Oates—This one landed in the 1998 film, “The Wedding Singer” and inspired an entirely new generation of fans for one of the most famous pop duos ever.

“Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves—Use this one to get the kids to jump out of their jammies and hit the trail!

“I Got a Feeling” by The Black-eyed Peas—I feel a dance session coming on!

“Hey Ya!” By OutKast—Hello Andre 2000! This undeniable ear worm will take up residence in your head and your heart!

“Here Comes the Sun” by the Beatles—It’s an oldie, but it’s alright. This classic track is still irresistible!

“Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars—Once you get the lyrics down it’s impossible resist singing along!

“Sing-a-Song” by Earth, Wind and Fire— “When you feel down and out sing a song….” I agree!

“ABC” by The Jackson Five—I’m a 70’s kid, I had to add the greatest act to come out of Indiana.

“Shake it Off” by Taylor Swift—Gotta give a nod to the Swifties. You’re welcome.

“All About That Base” by Megan Trainor—This ode to self-esteem was a hit because it made girls happy in their own skin. (Look for the PG-version created for radio play)

MMMbop by Hansen—You 90’s babies will still rock to this one, make sure your kiddos know it too!

“Holiday” by Madonna—A great song from Madonna’s early stuff, I promise, it will be so nice.

So! Those tunes are my favs, but what are yours? We’ll be collecting your suggestions. Post a photo and a song and we’ll all be in on the fun!