Nyt Strands : As summer fades into fall, one thing remains vivid: the soundtrack of the season. In a recent call for submissions, Amplifier readers shared their personal “Song of the Summer” for 2024—those tracks that encapsulated their sunny days, memorable moments, and personal journeys. From iconic hits to hidden gems, here’s a curated list of the top 13 songs that defined summer for our diverse audience.
1. Jimmy Buffett: “Oldest Surfer on the Beach”
For Alan Segal from San Diego, Jimmy Buffett’s nostalgic tune became more than just a song; it symbolized a lifetime of surfing. At 80, Alan found inspiration in “Oldest Surfer on the Beach” to keep chasing waves and cherishing summer’s essence.
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2. Bad Bunny: “Yo No Soy Celoso”
Andrea Avey from Iowa City vibed with Bad Bunny’s “Yo No Soy Celoso” for its unique blend of laid-back rhythm and intense lyrics. This track’s dynamic nature made it a perfect companion for summer nights and dance sessions.
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3. Keith: “98.6”
Robert Kilpatrick of Diamondhead, Mississippi, revisited a classic with Keith’s 1967 hit “98.6.” This song transported him back to carefree days on the Gulf Coast, embodying the magic of summer’s endless adventures.
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4. Ween: “Voodoo Lady”
For Solveig Comer and her kids, Ween’s “Voodoo Lady” was the soundtrack to their summer road trip. Its catchy chorus provided fun and memorable moments throughout their journey.
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5. Fontaines D.C.: “Starburster”
Jen Hassell from Farmington Hills, Michigan, embraced the raw energy of Fontaines D.C.’s “Starburster.” The Irish band’s vibrant sound and distinctive accent made this track a summer favorite.
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6. Draag: “Midnight Paradise”
Seattle’s David Marlow introduced his daughter to Draag’s “Midnight Paradise” during their summer e-bike rides. This shoegaze gem became a family favorite, marking their summer with catchy and edgy tunes.
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7. The Cranberries: “Dreams”
Joe Stracci from Cold Spring, New York, found a poignant connection with The Cranberries’ “Dreams” while bonding with his family over the show “Derry Girls.” This track became a backdrop to watching his child grow up.
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8. Zach Bryan: “Bass Boat”
Stina Hanson from Vancouver, British Columbia, resonated with Zach Bryan’s “Bass Boat” as she explored her family history during a summer drive. The song’s reflective nature provided a deep and meaningful soundtrack.
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9. Mississippi John Hurt: “Spike Driver Blues”
After a health scare, Richard Miller from Leuven, Belgium, turned to Mississippi John Hurt’s “Spike Driver Blues” as a source of inspiration and perseverance. This classic track became a symbol of resilience for him.
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10. Zizi Jeanmaire: “Mon Truc en Plumes”
For Meghan Habibzai in Portland, Maine, Zizi Jeanmaire’s “Mon Truc en Plumes” became a summer highlight thanks to Lady Gaga’s captivating Olympic performance. It quickly became a favorite for her and her daughter.
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11. Olivia Rodrigo: “So American”
Nelson Smith from Toronto, Ontario, embraced Olivia Rodrigo’s “So American” for its compelling groove and lyrics that mirrored the intense political climate of the summer, making it a standout track.
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12. Lawrence: “Whatcha Want”
Eric Siegmund from Horseshoe Bay, Texas, championed Lawrence’s “Whatcha Want” for its infectious and fun vibe. This track was a go-to for pure enjoyment and defining his summer of 2024.
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13. Chappell Roan: “Hot to Go!”
Richelle Hurley from Providence, Rhode Island, was captivated by Chappell Roan’s “Hot to Go!” The song not only became a summer favorite but also integrated into her everyday vocabulary, marking a vibrant and energetic season.
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This eclectic mix of personal favorites offers a glimpse into the diverse soundscapes that defined summer 2024 for our readers. Each track tells a unique story and connects with individual memories, proving that the “Song of the Summer” is deeply personal and varied. Enjoy these selections and let them transport you back to the sunny days of this year.
