Summer is a great time to throw fun and relaxed parties at home. While I never have a terrible time of choosing my menu or getting together some decor, I always struggle with choosing the music.
I always want to be sure I have the perfect playlist to compliment my party, but coming up with enough songs on my own can be a daunting task. I asked a few of my friends (who always have the best music) to help put together the perfect summer playlist for all different types of events.
Check out their summer picks!
Rock-n-Roll Summer PlaylistThis type of music is sure to have at least one person, if not everyone, standing on a table and singing along.
It’s perfect for a daytime pool party or BBQ. These classics will be enjoyed by both men and women alike.
Bitter sweet Symphony by The Verve
Something in the Way by Nirvana
You Said Something by PJ Harvey
Love Will Tear Us Apart by Joy Division
Sympathy for the Devil by The Rolling Stones
Domino by Van Morrison
Pumped Up Kicks by Foster the People
Keep Your Head Up by Andy Grammar
Hey Hey What Can I Say by Led Zeppelin
Maggie May by Rod Stewart
Mykonos by Fleet Foxes
Can’t You Hear Me Knockin' by The Rolling stones
Rocket Man by Elton John
Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
Into the Mystic by Van Morrison
That’s the Way by Led Zeppelin
Cecilia by Simon and Garfunkel
Strong Enough by Sheryl Crow
Slow Dancing in a Burning Room by John Mayer
For Family Parties
Summer is filled with events for the whole family, but finding music that pleases kids and parents alike is always a challenge.
You need music that is appropriate for all ages, but isn’t boring.
Rolling in the Deep by Adele
Girl by Beck
Clocks by Coldplay
#41 by Dave Matthews Band
Babylon by David Gray
Heartless by Dia Frampton (The Voice)
Upside Down by Jack Johnson
Save Room by John Legend
Heartbreak Warfare by John Mayer
Perfect Symmetry by Keane
That was a crazy game of poker by O.A.R.
Breakeven by The Script
Hey, Soul Sister by Train
Price Tag by Xenia
Two by Ryan Adams
Summer Dance Party Playlist
It doesn't matter what you’re celebrating, this party playlist features songs that are sure to get everyone in the dancing mood.
Man Down by Rihanna
Show Must Go On by Lupe Fiasco
Beautiful People by Chris Brown
I’m On One by DJ Khaled, Drake, Rick Ross and Lil Wayne
Party Rock Anthem by LMFAO
Give Me Everything (Tonight)by Pitbull/Ne-Yo
Take Over Control by Afrojack
Just Can’t Get Enough by The Black Eyed Peas
Til' the World Ends by Britney Spears
On the Floor by Jennifer Lopez/Pitbull
Tips to Plan Your Own Summer Party Playlist
Always keep in mind the length of your party and the length of your playlist – you don’t want to run out of songs mid-way through the party. I suggest making your playlist an hour longer than the length of your party, just to be on the safe side.
If you’re struggling to find songs, ask a friend! Borrow their iPod to get inspired or even use their ipod for the party.
Remember, music is an essential element to any party. It’s a great way to get a party started, and a great way to end one. Turning the music off is a polite signal to your guests that the party is over.