Sun Meets Pop
Is it hot here, or just the chart-busting summer pop tunes? As the mercury rises and the days get longer, there’s nothing like a feel-good pop song to capture that fizzy summer vibe. The fitting soundtrack makes the summer sizzle even brighter, from beach parties and backyard BBQs to road trip adventures. So, grab a chilled lemonade, put on those dancing flip-flops, and groove into our curated list of the best summer pop songs of the 1990s-2000s. Check out Part II of summer pop songs.
Best Summer Pop Songs: Your Modern Day Jukebox
The Best 90s Pop Fiesta
Ah, the 90s, a decade is known for its frosted tips, inflatable furniture, and some of the catchiest pop anthems that still get the party started. So let’s rewind to some iconic summer bangers that might have you reaching for your neon fanny pack.
“Wannabe” – Spice Girls
If you “really, really, really wanna zigazig ah,” this iconic pop anthem is your go-to track. It’s like a sizzling summer BBQ – spicy, sassy, and served with a side of girl power.
“The Boy is Mine” – Monica and Brandy
In the summer of 1998, Monica and Brandy came together to release this R&B-pop hybrid that was as smooth as a summer breeze. The song’s catchy hook and the vocal prowess of the two singers made it an instant hit, not to mention the narrative of rivalry and shared love interest that kept audiences hooked.
“Waterfalls” – TLC
This track from TLC is not just a pop song; it’s a cultural artifact. Released in the summer of 1995, “Waterfalls” was an essential tune, delivering an important message alongside an undeniably catchy melody. It’s the perfect track for those who like their summer playlist to come with a side of substance.
“Macarena” – Los Del Rio
If this doesn’t get you shimmying poolside, nothing will. So grab your friends, form a conga line, and let’s do the Macarena summer style!
“MMMBop” – Hanson
Who knew three blonde brothers and a nonsensical word could craft one of the catchiest summer anthems of the decade? So crank this up, and you’ll be “MMMBoping” all summer.
The 2000s: The Summer Pop Renaissance
As we entered the new millennium, the pop industry exploded with fresh faces and catchy choruses that had us singing into our hairbrush microphones.
“Hot in Herre” – Nelly
When the summer heat is scorching, no song encapsulates the sizzling vibes better than this. Cooling down with a popsicle while grooving to this hot track is acceptable.
“Hips Don’t Lie” – Shakira
This sultry summer bop will move your hips even if you didn’t know they could. Shakira brings the heat to this track, making it a must-add to your summer playlist.
“Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
Like a summer fling, this song is intoxicating. Catch Bey on the Renaissance Tour!
“Crazy” – Gnarls Barkley
This song, released in 2006, is a quintessential summer tune. “Crazy” masterfully blends elements of soul, pop, and R&B to create a sound that’s as infectious as it is unique. Whether you’re chilling by the pool or dancing at a summer party, this track fits right in.
“1, 2 Step” – Ciara
Ciara took the summer of 2004 by storm with this dance-pop anthem. With its addictive beat and energetic vocals, “1, 2 Step” is a must-have on any summer playlist. It’s a track that invites you to let loose, get moving, and step into the summer rhythm.
And that’s our list. Be sure to watch out for our sequel: Summer Pop Hits: 2010 and Beyond.
