Are These Rock’s Best Summer Songs?
It’s officially summer! What better way to kick off the season than with a ranking of Rock’s Best Summer Songs?
The list from Ultimate Classic Rock covers nearly two decades of music and includes everything from songs about vacations and warm weather to tracks that simply feel like summer every time they come on the radio.
Here are the Top 10:
- “The Boys of Summer” – Don Henley (1984)
- “Summer in the City” – The Lovin’ Spoonful (1966)
- “School’s Out” – Alice Cooper (1972)
- “Vacation” – The Go-Go’s (1982)
- “Mr. Blue Sky” – Electric Light Orchestra (1978)
- “Summer Breeze” – Seals & Crofts (1972)
- “California Girls” – The Beach Boys (1965)
- “Saturday in the Park” – Chicago (1972)
- “Summer of ’69” – Bryan Adams (1985)
- “Hot Fun in the Summertime” – Sly & the Family Stone (1969)
Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer” claimed the top spot thanks to its timeless mix of nostalgia, memorable lyrics, and one of the most recognizable guitar hooks of the 1980s. The list also features classic summertime staples from The Beach Boys, Chicago, and The Lovin’ Spoonful, along with feel-good favorites like ELO’s “Mr. Blue Sky” and The Go-Go’s “Vacation.”
Of course, lists like this always spark debate. Some fans might argue that songs like “Rockaway Beach,” “All Summer Long,” or “Surfin’ U.S.A.” deserved a spot. Still, there’s no denying that these ten songs capture the freedom, fun, and memories that make summer special.
So what’s your pick for the ultimate summer anthem?
Doug O’Brien
