[2025] Songs You’ll Want to Listen to This Summer! Popular and Recommended Classic Rock Tracks from the West

Black SummerRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Black Summer (Official Music Video)

This is a song by Red Hot Chili Peppers that sings of the bittersweet feelings at the end of summer.

Released in February 2022 and included on the album Unlimited Love, it drew attention as the work marking guitarist John Frusciante’s return after 16 years.

Its unique sound—melding a gentle lick with a weighty structure—is perfect for summer dusks.

The lyrics, which express personal turmoil, a sense of loss, and a longing for new encounters, are sure to resonate with many.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to leisurely as the season turns toward summer’s end.

Summer NightsVan Halen

Summer Nights

An energetic, catchy rock tune that celebrates the freedom and youth of summer nights! Featured on Van Halen’s album “5150,” released in March 1986, it was the first work produced with their new vocalist, Sammy Hagar.

Eddie Van Halen’s exceptional guitar work and Hagar’s powerful vocals are a perfect match, delivering a song that captures the joy of spending summer nights with friends.

Crank it up loud while driving and it’s sure to be perfect for making summer memories.

Highly recommended for party lovers and anyone looking to revel in their youth.

Summer SongJoe Satriani

Joe Satriani – Summer Song

This is a masterpiece that brilliantly captures the exhilarating feeling of summer.

Released in 1992 by Joe Satriani, a virtuoso in the world of technical guitarists, the track is highly regarded as one of his signature works.

Although it’s an instrumental, the guitar melodies evoke the freedom and energy of summer, stirring the listener’s heart.

Featured on the album “The Extremist,” it achieved commercial success, reaching No.

5 on the U.

S.

Billboard Mainstream Rock chart.

It was also used in the 1995 PlayStation game “Formula 1,” earning love from a wide audience.

It’s the perfect song for an active summer soundtrack, whether you’re driving or at the beach.

Rockaway BeachRamones

Rockaway Beach (40th Anniversary Tracking Mix)

A punk rock classic bursting with invigorating sound and a sense of summer freedom.

Featured on the Ramones’ 1977 album “Rocket to Russia,” it’s marked by a breezy melody influenced by the Beach Boys and surf rock.

The lyrics paint a picture of a sweltering New York summer that tickles the listener’s imagination.

The track reached No.

66 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the band’s highest-charting hit.

In June 2013, it was also used in a radio commercial promoting recovery from Hurricane Sandy.

Perfect for a day at the beach or as the soundtrack to a summer drive, this is a powerful song that gives you the energy to get through the hot season—highly recommended if you’re looking for an uplifting summer anthem.

Summer GirlHaim

HAIM – Summer Girl

I also recommend “Summer Girl,” whose heartrending lyrics will squeeze your heart.

It’s a release by Haim, a rock band formed by three sisters.

The song was reportedly created after middle sister Danielle experienced something sad in her private life.

Because of that, the lyrics, while not explicit, end up depicting a tragedy.

On the other hand, the melody has a soft, jazz-like feel, so it seems perfect for relaxing time as well.

The Boys of Summer (Don Henley Cover)The Ataris

The Ataris – The Boys of Summer

The end of summer and the last day of summer vacation can make you feel a little lonely, right? That’s when I want you to listen to “The Boys of Summer.” This version is by The Ataris, and it sings about the emptiness that follows after summer is gone.

You might expect a mellow ballad from that description, but it actually has a fast, driving sound.

It’s the kind of track that can lift your spirits when you listen to it.

By the way, this song is a cover of Don Henley’s original.

It’s a good idea to listen to both.

Soak Up the SunSheryl Crow

Sheryl Crow – Soak Up The Sun

Basking in the sunlight and finding the simple joys of life—this song shows you how to spend a summer that way.

Released in February 2002 as the lead single from Sheryl Crow’s fourth studio album, “C’mon, C’mon,” it reached No.

1 on the Adult Contemporary chart.

Its bright, positive melody and lyrics encourage you to keep moving forward even in the face of life’s challenges, such as financial difficulties or lack of romance.

Whether you’re relaxing on the beach or looking for a soundtrack for a summer drive, it’s sure to put you in a good mood.