The Soundtrack to My Summer {Playlist}

The sun has been shining this weekend in Amsterdam, which has made me very happy indeed. The number of house parties, canalside BBQs and street singing has quadrupled and there is a good vibe in the air.

When it’s like this, I just want to listen to poppy, upbeat music and dance. I love doing that any time of year, but I think you’ll agree that certain songs just fit the backdrop of summer.

So I thought I’d give you a glimpse of my current summer playlist that’s had me bopping at my computer the last couple of weeks. And you can listen to the playlist yourself through Spotify here if you want to give the songs a listen.

A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay – I used to hate Coldplay. As in, if anyone had asked me who my least favourite artists of all time were, my automatic response would have been U2 and Coldplay. I know both of these are cult bands, but I have always found their music depressing and bleh. In the last year or two, I’ve found myself liking some (and I mean *some*) of Coldplay’s songs, including Viva La Vida, Christmas Lights and now this one. It’s beautiful and uplifting at the same time. Maybe all it takes is a “conscious uncoupling” for me to enjoy Coldplay’s music. Or maybe it’s the fact that Avicii produced it. Either way, I like it.

Happy by Pharrell Williams – I know this one isn’t new, and many of you are probably sick of it by now, but I still defy anyone not to start nodding their head when they hear this song. It screams summer and it makes me want to silly dance every time I hear it.

Calm After The Storm by The Common Linnets – If you didn’t watch Eurovision this year, or if you don’t follow me on Twitter (and if either or both of those things apply to you, please leave. Like, right now.) then you may not have heard about the hype surrounding the Netherlands entry. If it hadn’t been for the political statement that Austria made with their entry, I feel certain this would have won. I don’t like country, but this is pop-country and it’s lovely. Plus, I hear it *all* the time on Dutch radio now, so I have no choice but to love it.

I Got U by Duke Dumont – This one is kind of clubby and I can picture myself listening to it while drinking cocktails on a rooftop bar. That’s how I know it’s a summer song. It samples the Whitney Houston song My Love Is Your Love and so it also reminds me of being a geeky teenager. Go forth and be stylish with your rooftop cocktails, you former geeks!

Stay With Me by Sam Smith – I first heard this song when Sam performed it on the Graham Norton chat show and I was mesmerised the whole time. It gave me goosebumps. I know when I’ve stumbled across a true performer and singer when that happens. It’s only ever happened to me a few times in my life, but when a singer makes me stop talking and pay attention the whole time they are singing, I know that they are a real talent. This guy’s voice is phenomenal. End of.

Budapest by George Ezra – This is a feel-good song that’s named after a travel destination. What’s not to love? Every time I hear this song, I like it a little bit more. It sounds old school and is very catchy, plus I love the soulful tone to George’s voice. If you don’t find yourself humming this after you’ve heard it, you’re made of stone.

Chocolate by The 1975 – Never mind that this group are from my beloved home town of Manchester, I’m a bit of a sucker for indie rock songs, hence why this one is included in the list. Plus, it’s named after one of my favourite food groups.

Rather Be by Clean Bandit feat. Jess Glynne – I have been singing the chorus to this song around the house all week. I can’t get enough of it. The electro beats are fun, plus Jess Glynne, who’s singing on it, has a great voice.