"Lonely Boy," by The Black Keys
"The guitar work on this track is so infectious I dare you not to tap your feet. This is the perfect song for a car trip, escaping the city with the windows down, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your skin. Road trip!"
—Megan McIntyre, senior beauty editor
"Heavy Metal Drummer," by Wilco
"This song captures the essence of summer — romantic flings, rock-'n'-roll shows, being young, and maybe a little foolish. When the chorus kicks in, you can't help but feel a little bit of joy — a refrain of "ooh ooh, oooooh" will do that to you. It might just be the perfect song to listen to while you're driving away from the city and toward a vacation."
—Holly Thomas, D.C. editor
"Feel Me Flow," Naughty By Nature
"This is the ultimate fire-hydrant-poppin', BBQ-having, short-shorts wearing, stoop-sitting summer jam. For many years, I've strongly believed that Treach is a criminally slept-on emcee, and his cheeky, boastful raps work perfectly to convey that summertime optimism. Sit still when you listen to this song, I dare you (because, um, you can't). Take Treach's own advice, and, "Just clap your hands, and hold your shorty." Our shorties are held, Naughty By Nature. They are held.
—Leila Brillson, news editor
"The World Is Ours," by Catcall
"I usually pick my favorite summer songs based on how they would sound blasted from my car radio, while I head to the beach. This jam does the trick. It's catchy, cute, and head-boppy. Now, if someone wants to provide the wheels, I'll provide the tunes. Shotgun!"
—Gina Marinelli, editorial assistant
"Starships," by Nicki Minaj
"When the summer hits, I'm constantly in a giddy mood, and I want my music to be just as upbeat. This awesomely poppy song is the perfect jam for a pool party, or for getting ready for a fun night out with my girls."
—Seija Rankin, editorial assistant