Offbeat | Summer 2022 Playlist
Offbeat is a bi-weekly blog offering new and meaningful takes on all things media.
April 17, 2022
Happy last week of classes, people. Warm weather is rolling in, Schenley plaza is filling with students — who may or may not be skipping class — and the semester is nearly done. With everyone out and about, music can be heard drifting out of open South O windows, from the speakers of backyard parties and cars cruising down Fifth and Forbes.
So, with summer around the corner, here’s some heat that is sure to make your playlist — 27 songs, to be exact.
Starting with a bang! From the discs of SoundCloud DJ Disco Lines, this remixed party tune was highly anticipated after it gained traction on TikTok. Listen responsibly.
A summer classic! This song details summer rituals, with lyrics like “I was drinking beer with my friends / Here we go again.” It’s a perfect track to play in the background while being young and reckless.
Rapper Tory Lanez has switched up his sound just in time for the summer. Released on his third studio album, “Alone At Prom,” Lanez brings it with this punchy, disco-funk ballad.
Who doesn’t know AND love this one?
An oldie but a goodie. This 2013, house-inspired, disco funk-pop song has lived on, summer after summer, and will do so for years to come. Timeless.
Play this upbeat, alternative anthem to avoid the legitimacies of adult life.
Born on SoundCloud and curated with samplings of Empire of the Sun’s “Walking on a Dream,” this remix is a beautiful blend of party rap and indie electronic that transcends genres and appeals to all crowds.
It wouldn’t be summer without Bryce Vine. Enough said.
A Pittsburgh shoutout! I had the pleasure of seeing this indie rock track in person, performed on a South O front porch at this year’s WelsFest. Pitt student Gambill has pipes.
This is an indie movie montage song if I’ve ever heard one.
A classic, through and through. Bob Marley never fails to transport me to a warm beach somewhere down south.
English-Ethiopian singer-songwriter Izzy Bizu sure knows how to make an equal parts soul and summery pop song.
This chill hip-hop tune starts with the sounds of waves on a beach — that’s how you know it’s a summer song.
This deep funk, soulful tune is one both you and your dad will like … well, at least in my case.
You’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Miami with this Spanish clubbing anthem that brought Farruko’s fame to new heights.
Released on Fike’s “What Could Possibly Go Wrong” album, this is a very windows-down-esque, coming-of-age-movie-soundtrack indie tune.
On his “Have A Good Summer” EP, North London rapper Jordy puts out a smooth, groovy R&B tune.
Have a camping trip this summer? This folk-esque tune from Florida grassroots band The 502s will likely make you tap your feet.
This very chilled, pop-reminiscent song sounds as dreamy as it does catchy. This very well could be the song of your summer.
This electronic release is full of summery synths and joyful beats — this is one of French DJ Tchami’s warmest, happiest grooves yet.
This adult contemporary song is a special ode to youth, perfect for playing around the fire on a cool summer night.
Off the alternative rap album, “Where Are My Friends,” this is a chasing summer sunsets type of groove.
This colorful R&B number almost has some Caribbean feels to it. 10/10.
Jordan Davis knows the perfect balance of pop and croony country — this one’s a summer favorite for sure.
This is half a joke, but not really … In this classic, Roth displays his love of college partying, to which I respond, “Do I really have to graduate or can I just stay here for the rest of my life?”
This electronic masterpiece is a summer essential. Flume knows how to make a “hanging off the balcony” or “out the car window” type of tune. Please don’t take my advice on that.
Who doesn’t love a bit of country in the summertime? Kacey brings it home with a guitar-driven, pop-leaning piece.
Jillian writes about a range of media topics. You can reach her at [email protected].
