Thanks to the past week of nice weather, spring and summertime fun have finally made an appearance in Happy Valley. Next time you’re outside relaxing in the sun or enjoying a warm night out, listen to these tunes to get in the warm-weather mood.
“Starships” by Nicki Minaj
This song oozes energy. “Let’s go to the beach, each; let’s go get away,” Nicki begins in her signature punchy voice. The song is nothing if not a testament to the simple nature of warm-weathered fun. It’s a must-listen all spring and summer long.
“Charlie Brown” by Coldplay
Coldplay has the ability to constantly reinvent itself, something its members certainly have undertaken on their most recent album, Mylo Xyloto. The song’s chorus is nothing short of genius, with frontman Chris Martin’s vocals soaring over irresistible melodies. As an added bonus, the song evokes that summertime romance you’ve always dreamt of while not contorting it into a cliché.
“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
You’ve all heard this catchy song at any recent Penn State shindig. The track is a fun way to celebrate a gathering, be that outside on your lawn or inside your apartment.
“Machu Picchu” by The Strokes
The Strokes’ newest album is full of powerful and addicting guitar riffs and melodies, with “Machu Picchu” possibly being its catchiest song to date. The guitar rhythms and Julian Casablancas’ vocals and will have you instantly thinking of fun, warm days and nights with your closest friends.
“Gold on the Ceiling” by The Black Keys
Even though the album dropped in mid-winter, the group’s latest single boasts an electric guitar chorus worthy of any spring event. The song is upbeat and undeniably catchy.
“Glad You Came” by The Wanted
The opening of this song, with its calypso-style drum beats and light accordion complement, immediately conjures up visions of warm springs and summers. The song is amazingly catchy to boot, making it the perfect tune for perfect weather.
“We Take Care of Our Own” by Bruce Springsteen
A lot of Springsteen’s music has that quintessential free feeling associated with summer temperatures. This song has the sheer power of an American anthem, making it perfect for blasting out of any Penn Stater’s set of speakers.
“Dancehall Queen” by Robyn
Sure, this is a bit of a throwback. Robyn’s lyrics about being dancehall royalty (“Until the music stops, you know I still run this thing like a Dancehall Queen”) coupled with the reggae tone will have everyone ready to dance.
Photo by Nina Abbott