[2025 Updated Edition] Western songs to listen to in summer: recommended summer tracks

AfricaKarl Wolf

Karl Wolf – africa

A smash-hit summer tune by a Dubai-born singer-songwriter and producer/composer.

This track, an arrangement of TOTO’s original song, is included on the second album “BITE BULLET,” released in 2008.

Thanks to this major hit, they became known worldwide.

Never Really OverKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Never Really Over (Official Video)

Some listeners might be startled when they hear the pleasing sound of dynamic synthesizer tones, but this track is produced by the hit-making producer Zedd.

It’s a refreshing electropop tune, perfectly suited as background music for the arrival of the hot summer.

However, one of the song’s charms is that, contrary to its sound, the lyrics explore a serious theme.

It’s a single released in 2019 by one of contemporary America’s leading singer-songwriters, Katy Perry.

After HoursKehlani

Kehlani – After Hours [Official Music Video]

The lead single from popular R&B singer-songwriter Kehlani’s new project Cash, her first in about two years.

The lyrics convey a palpable longing for a passionate connection between two people drawn together as the night deepens.

Built on an uptempo yet smooth groove that references the widely sampled Coolie Dance Rhythm, it sets a moody, summertime nighttime vibe.

Kehlani’s uniquely emotive delivery shines through, making this a truly adult summer song.

Poised to be this year’s summer anthem, it’s sure to blast as a killer tune in clubs and on late-night drives everywhere.

Free SpiritKhalid

Khalid – Free Spirit (Official Video)

Free Spirit by Khalid, an American singer-songwriter.

This song is the title track of his second album, released in 2019.

With down-to-earth lyrics and a naturally beautiful voice, he draws listeners into his world.

Doesn’t his expansive, prairie-wide singing make you feel as if your heart is being cleansed?

A Love InternationalKhruangbin

Khruangbin – A Love International (Official Video)

Hailing from Houston, Texas and renowned as a psychedelic jam band, Khruangbin release A LA SALA, their first new album in four years! Dropped as the lead single, this track mirrors the band’s own lived experiences and poses questions about art and reality.

Guided by a sublime groove, soulful drums and a powerful bassline resonate while the lead guitar spins a beautiful melody.

The arrangement intensifies toward the end—another highlight to listen for.

Khruangbin also infuse the song with a deep respect for American roots music and the landscapes that shape it, weaving environmental sounds into the texture to express a bond between music and nature.

It’s a groovy, mellow cut that’s perfect for a coastal drive or a laid-back moment on the beach.

Dancing Feet ft. DNCEKygo

Kygo – Dancing Feet (Official Video) ft. DNCE

The perfect track to heat up a passionate summer with friends or a lover is “Dancing Feet ft.

DNCE.” It’s a collaboration between Norwegian music producer Kygo and the American dance-rock band DNCE.

The music video, featuring people taking light steps by the poolside and on the dance floor, is particularly striking.

Its disco-inspired funky beat will get your body moving.

It’s a summer tune you can sing and dance to from morning till night.

Be sure to add it to your summer pop playlist!

WhateveKygo, Ava Max

Kygo, Ava Max – Whatever (Official Video)

A powerful collaboration track by Norwegian DJ Kygo and American singer-songwriter Ava Max, vividly portraying the resolve to move forward after heartbreak.

Released in January 2024, the song draws inspiration from Shakira’s classic “Whenever, Wherever,” featuring distinctive guitar strums and Ava Max’s powerful vocals.

The climax delivers a memorable chorus that blends synthesizers with house music elements.

In the music video, Ava Max is shown walking along a desert highway, deepening the immersion into the song’s world.