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

CalifornicationRed Hot Chili Peppers

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication (Official Music Video) [HD UPGRADE]

When you think of a Red Hot Chili Peppers anthem you want to hear on a sunny California summer day, it has to be this track.

Released in June 1999 as the title song of the album Californication, it became a fan favorite, reaching No.

69 on the U.

S.

Billboard Hot 100.

It sharply depicts the fabricated nature lurking behind Hollywood’s glitz, with Anthony Kiedis’s vocals and John Frusciante’s guitar meshing perfectly.

Also chosen as the theme song for the film Death Note, it’s ideal as background music for drives or days by the beach—sure to become a must-have track for making summer memories.

Summer Song (Wishing You Were Here)Slade

Summer Song (Wishing You Were Here)

A timeless song that vividly evokes bittersweet memories by the summer seaside.

Released by Slade in January 1974, this track appears on the album “Slade in Flame.” Its upbeat rhythm and stylish vibe make it perfect for a drive or a relaxing moment on the beach.

The lyrics—expressing a wish for someone to stay—capture the fleeting, wistful feeling of summer.

As a hidden gem by one of Britain’s quintessential rock bands, it’s still loved by many to this day.

Why not add it to your playlist for making summer memories?

Higher And HigherSly & The Family Stone

Sly & The Family Stone – I Want to Take You Higher (Official Audio)

A perfect summer track that blends psychedelic allure with an ecstatic groove.

This piece celebrates the pure joy of music and its power to bring people together, aiming to give listeners a dose of positive energy.

Released in May 1969, the song is known as one of Sly & The Family Stone’s signature works and found success on the charts in both Canada and the United States.

Its distinctive sound—drawing on elements of funk, soul, and rock—captures the hearts of music lovers and won’t let go.

It’s ideal for a hot summer day, whether you’re grilling with friends at a BBQ or playing it as background music on a drive.

The exhilarating rhythm and powerful vocals are sure to elevate your summer.

Song For The SummerStereophonics

Stereophonics – Song For The Summer

It’s a track marked by a powerful guitar riff that slices through the summer air and a melody line that sinks deep into the heart.

Featured on the album Keep the Village Alive, released in November 2015, this ninth release from Stereophonics drew significant attention, topping the UK Albums Chart.

The lyrics, which sing of self-reflection and a desire for a fresh start, deftly capture both the brightness of summer and the introspective mood of rainy days.

It’s perfect as background music for outdoor activities like driving or BBQs.

It’s also a recommended song for those who want to face themselves through music.

Summertime BluesSublime

Sublime Summertime

For those looking for a track with a cool vibe, I also recommend “Summertime Blues.” This release is by Sublime, known for a style that incorporates elements from various music genres.

In this piece, they blend in hip-hop and reggae influences.

The tempo is on the relaxed side, making it perfect for times when you want to sway along to the music or for summer drives.

Another draw is the lyrics, which are highly dramatic and let you get a feel for their values and way of life.

Every MorningSugar Ray

Every Morning – Sugar Ray

With its breezy guitars and jaunty rhythm evoking the freshness of a summer morning, this Sugar Ray track stands out.

Included on their 1999 album 14:59, it became a key work that proved the band was more than a one-hit wonder.

While depicting a complicated romantic relationship, the lyrics still exude a positive vibe that listeners can relate to.

Achieving major commercial success—peaking at No.

3 on the Billboard Hot 100—the song is perfect for lounging by the pool or enjoying a drive with friends.

Why not add it to your playlist to help create some summer memories?

This SummerSuperchunk

Superchunk – This Summer (Live on KEXP)

With its lively rhythm and energetic sound, this song perfectly captures the exhilaration of summer.

Released in 2012, it is known as one of the most striking tracks in Superchunk’s long career.

As one of the bands representing the American indie rock scene, this work showcases their musical identity.

Their DIY spirit has won the hearts of many fans.

It’s an ideal track for making summer memories and a perfect soundtrack for a drive.

It’s also recommended for adults who feel nostalgic for their youth.