Summer is finally here or it’s been here for a bit. School’s out, party mood is on and everyone is looking to have as much fun as they can before the break is over. Yes, we know the world is crazy right now and the political scene is in upheaval but could there be a better way to make it through than to dance our way through the chaos?
We think not.
To top it off, the music industry has us on cloud nine with all the latest releases. From Beyonce’s Break My Soul to Burna Boy’s Last Last, here are 10 songs you need to have on your summer playlist for 2022.
1. “Break My Soul”, Beyoncé
Queen Bey would not be Queen if she didn’t make the top of this summer playlist. After nearly 6 years without an album, Beyoncé announced her return and blessed her hive with this beautiful track. Break My Soul is a single from her album, Renaissance, which was released on July 29. While the song is her first foray into House music, it carries her signature spirit with one prevalent message: No matter what the world throws at her, her soul won’t be broken.
2. “About Damn Time”, Lizzo
Lizzo is back like she never left and we think it’s about damn time. The three-time Grammy award-winning superstar is known for her messages of empowerment, and true to form, that’s exactly what About Damn Time does. The song is all about rediscovering your confidence after those never-ending rough patches in life. Sassy and lighthearted, this song will have you feeling unstoppable; the perfect way to go through your summer and we’ve added it to your summer playlist.
3. “Overloading (Overdose)”, Mavins, Crayon, Ayra Starr, LADIPOE, Magixx & Boy Spyce
Whoever said too many cooks spoil the broth was definitely not referring to this masterpiece. This hit single was a perfect blend of 6 different sounds and we love it. While it was not released in the summer, we are stealing the song and the energy behind it for our summer.
4. “Ijo (laba laba)”, Crayon
After giving us a taste of his magic in Overloading, Crayon recently released this hit dance song. With a song title that means “butterfly dance” in Yoruba, you better believe that this song will have you happily dancing through the summer.
5. “Peace Be Unto You (PBUY)”, Asake
Palazzo singer, Asake aka Mr Money, has us vibing to his latest single this summer. PBUY is his acknowledgement of his growth and fame, and his resolve to not let it distract him. Message aside, the beats on this track makes it just right for the summer party you might be planning.
6. “Left and Right”, Charlie Puth feat Jungkook of BTS
BTS fans might be happy to know that while their favorite Boyband is on a hiatus, they are not letting that stop them from making the great music they’re known for. Puth’s collaboration with the group’s youngest is a catchy and upbeat reminiscing of an unforgettable love. Whether you were or have been ‘served breakfast’ recently, the fact remains that this is the perfect listen for when you’re out for a drive with the wind in your hair.
7. “It’s Plenty”, Burna Boy
Fresh off his latest album, Love, Damini, this song is Burna Boy reminding us to remember to have fun and always live our best life. As the Grammy award winner sings,
“Don’t wanna waste my days. I want to spend them on enjoyment.”
8. “Bandana”, Fireboy DML, Asake
This might be the best collaboration yet between two of Nigeria’s hottest artistes. A song off his Playboy album, Fireboy proves once more that he needs no hype; he is his own hypeman and very well so. The duo affirm their status as talented hit-makers with this track. The chorus is the perfect sing-along for you and your geng.
9. “Last Last”, Burna Boy
This might be a breakup song but you would never know if you didn’t listen closely. While mere mortals might write sad songs after being “served breakfast”, the African Giant turned his into a hit that will have you vibing and crying in the club. If you were recently served or know someone who was served breakfast this summer, this is the song for you. We guarantee it’s going to be difficult to remain sad and depressed afterwards.
10. “Running Up That Hill”, Kate Bush
We know what you’re thinking, “What is a 37-year-old British song doing on a list of 2022 summer songs?” Yes, we know. But if you’re a Stranger Things fan (as you should be), then you know why this song made this summer playlist and you probably already have parts of it memorized.
And while it’s not technically a summer song, you have to admit that the track is timeless. As a plus, you can listen to it and remember all your favorite scenes from Stranger Things 4 while we wait for a season 5.
