Classic Western songs to listen to in July: summer anthems and popular hits

On My MamaVictoria Monét

On My Mama

A message of powerful self-affirmation that stirs your heart without you even realizing it! This is a track by singer-songwriter Victoria Monét from California.

Written “as if speaking words to herself” during the challenging postpartum period, the song overflows with positive energy that boosts listeners’ self-esteem.

Its memorable hook—sampling a 2009 track—and triumphant horns feel great and seem like they could blow away the languor of summer.

Released in June 2023 and included on the acclaimed album Jaguar II, the song became her first top-40 entry on the Billboard Hot 100.

Why not charge up your energy by listening on a summer drive or on a morning when you want to lift your mood?

Walking On The Milky WayOrchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark – Walking On The Milky Way

This song, with the grand title “Walking on the Milky Way,” is a synth-pop masterpiece released in 1996 by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, a leading force in the UK electronic music scene.

As Andy McCluskey himself has called it one of his finest works, it brilliantly fuses an expansive, string-laden sound with elements of baroque pop.

Included on the album Universal, it reached No.

17 on the UK Singles Chart, yet at the time it suffered the misfortune of being rejected by BBC Radio 1 for being “not trendy.” Even so, the performance with a full orchestra on BBC’s Top of the Pops remains legendary.

Wrapped in a cosmic sense of scale and a beautiful melody, it’s the perfect track to listen to while gazing up at the Tanabata night sky.

SUMMER PARADISE feat. Taka from ONE OK ROCKSimple Plan

Simple Plan – SUMMER PARADISE feat. Taka from ONE OK ROCK

An open, summery pop-punk number set against a seaside backdrop has come to life through a collaboration between Canada’s Simple Plan and Taka from Japan’s ONE OK ROCK.

Released first in Japan in March 2013 as a special version of a track from the 2011 album “Get Your Heart On!,” the song charms with a breezy sound that weaves in elements of reggae and ska punk.

Inspired by vocalist Pierre Bouvier’s love of surfing, the track centers on themes of relaxed moments by the ocean and summertime memories—making it a perfect fit for summer drives, beach trips, and festivals.

ShowerBecky G

Becky G – Shower

This is a bright, sun-soaked pop tune released in 2014 by American artist Becky G.

Its fresh, innovative metaphor compares the thrill of falling in love to a shower, paired with a sweet, breezy melody that conveys the purity of young love in a straightforward way.

The song achieved major commercial success, reaching No.

16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certification from the RIAA.

It’s perfect for when you want to soak up a summer resort vibe or relive the sweet, bittersweet rush of falling in love.

The refreshing vocals and catchy rhythm also make it ideal for a morning drive or a beach party.

HOT TO GO!Chappell Roan

Chappell Roan – HOT TO GO! (Official Music Video)

A refreshing, dance-pop number by American singer-songwriter Chappell Roan.

Inspired by her childhood admiration for cheerleaders, the track features a powerful beat and gleaming synthesizers.

It’s a popular song from her August 2023 album, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess,” and became a hit, reaching No.

15 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

The music video was filmed in Springfield, Missouri, and shows her in a cheerleader outfit visiting local landmarks.

It’s the perfect song to amp up active moments like summer drives or parties with friends.

Rather Be ft. Jess GlynneClean Bandit

Clean Bandit – Rather Be ft. Jess Glynne [Official Video]

This is a gem of a dance track crafted by the British electronic music group Clean Bandit.

Released in January 2014 as a lead single from their debut album New Eyes, it features an innovative sound that brilliantly fuses classical music with electropop.

Jess Glynne’s clear, luminous vocals intertwine with elegant violin and cello melodies to create a tune brimming with the breezy freshness of a summer sky.

The song drew worldwide acclaim, topping the UK Singles Chart for four consecutive weeks and winning the 2015 Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording.

It’s a perfect choice for road trips and travel, as well as a refreshing listen on hot summer days.

CAN’T STOP THE FEELING!Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake – CAN’T STOP THE FEELING! (from DreamWorks Animation’s “TROLLS”) (Official Video)

It’s a pop tune filled with positive energy that feels comfortably at home in the fresh air of summer.

The rhythmic melody—an infusion of soul and funk performed by American artist Justin Timberlake—overflows with an irresistible groove that makes you want to move.

Created for the soundtrack of the DreamWorks Animation film “Trolls,” released in May 2016, the song brims with liberating vibes and pure joy that make you want to dance along, and it debuted at No.

1 on the U.

S.

Billboard chart.

It’s a perfect track for midsummer parties, road trips, or any time you want to lift your mood.

A song that can make anyone smile, it has captured the hearts of many listeners by sharing that happy feeling.