The song of the summer in 2026 isn’t easily identifiable. Unlike past years with clear standouts like ‘Despacito’ in 2017 or ‘Old Town Road’ in 2019, the musical landscape has evolved with more choices. Last year, even ballads like Alex Warren’s ‘Ordinary’ entered the discussion, challenging the typical upbeat summer hits. Exploring various moods, the Associated Press curated songs in a Spotify playlist to complement the season.
Biggest Song of the Year
‘Choosin’ Texas’ by Ella Langley
Ella Langley’s breakout track, ‘You Look Like You Love Me,’ set the stage for her crossover success. However, it’s the breakup anthem ‘Choosin’ Texas’ that solidified her country star status, topping the Billboard Hot 100 with memorable lyrics referencing George Strait’s classic with a melancholic verse. This song resonates as the biggest hit of the year.
Song for the Fighters
‘Janice STFU’ by Drake
Drake’s ‘Janice STFU’ addresses the fallout from his feud with Kendrick Lamar. Despite losing that battle, Drake remains a dominant streaming artist. The track off his album ‘Iceman’ features a familiar Lykke Li interpolation and moody production, reinforcing his staying power.
Film-Titled Track
‘Midnight Sun (Girls Trip)’ by Zara Larsson and PinkPantheress
Swedish pop sensation Zara Larsson takes a cue from the 2018 film, ‘Midnight Sun.’ Her latest album and lead single share the name, captivating audiences with Eurodance-pop and elastic vocal performances. ‘Midnight Sun: Girls Trip’ brings remixes featuring stars like Shakira and PinkPantheress.
High-Energy Hit
‘DANCE…’ by Slayyyter
Slayyyter’s cheeky persona shines in ‘DANCE…,’ a buzzy electro-pop opus. The album title, ‘Wor$t Girl in America,’ hints at her provocative style, making this track perfect for pop lovers awaiting her mainstream rise.
Throwback Vibes
‘I Just Might’ by Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars returns with ‘I Just Might’ from his first album in a decade. The funky disco-pop-soul single promises a lively respite from monotony, earning a long-term spot on wedding playlists.
Early Bird
‘Dracula (Jennie Remix)’ by Tame Impala and Jennie
Tame Impala’s ‘Dracula,’ especially the Jennie remix, arrives as this year’s summer anthem. The infectious TikTok presence and collaboration with Blackpink’s Jennie make it a standout hit, emphasized by the memorable chorus.
Club Classic
‘Chévere (premium_remix)’ by Aria Vega and Ryan Castro
Reimagined romantic reggaeton in ‘Chévere (premium_remix)’ offers a happy medium between house party vibes and romantic encounters.
Powerful Bridge
‘The Cure’ by Olivia Rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘The Cure’ offers dreamy guitars and orchestral strings paired with an explosive bridge, marking a significant songwriting milestone.
Music, Fashion, and Film
‘SS26’ by Charli XCX
Charli XCX’s ‘SS26’ introduces rock with distorted guitar riffs and simple production, forming part of her upcoming ‘Music, Fashion, Film’ project.
Summer Feeling Year-Round
‘E85’ by Don Toliver
“On the highway with my significant lover (I love),”
Don Toliver’s chorus in ‘E85’ evokes a freeway summer image, complementing its theme with high-energy vibes.
Seaside Dreamers
‘Swim’ by BTS
BTS’s ‘Swim’ represents their return with a reserved alt-pop track that conjures dreamy, poolside imagery, bridging their massive fanbase with personal vibes.
Yearning Love Songs
‘Raindance’ by Dave ft. Tems
‘Raindance’ features British rapper Dave and Nigerian singer Tems, creating a sweet Afroswing collaboration about deep emotions.
Sports Enthusiasts
‘Dai Dai’ by Shakira and Burna Boy
‘Dai Dai,’ an official song for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, meshes Afrobeats with Latin rhythms, showcasing Shakira and Burna Boy’s global appeal.
Reconciliation Anthem
‘Horses & Divorces’ by Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert
Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert unite in ‘Horses & Divorces,’ blending norteño accordions and country flair, concluding musical feuds over shared passions.
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