5 Potential Summer Anthems

You can’t have a cookout without good food and you can’t have a pool party without a swimming pool, but those things are never enough to keep the party going. After awhile, bellies get full and people want to dry off. The only way to keep them enthused all night long is to have some good ass music. The summer isn’t here quite yet, but we’re getting prepared early.

5) Robin Thicke ft. Pharell & T.I. – “Blurred Lines”

Only an expert or a drunken fool could find a way to twerk to “Blurred Lines,” but partying isn’t only about twerking. While the video is NSFW, the song itself is socially acceptable anywhere. The subdued, calm vocals and upbeat instrumental are perfect for creating that flirty atmosphere where people can mingle casually without feeling pressured because everyone around them is grinding in a drunken frenzy. Plus, it’s a Robin Thicke song so you can play it at your mom’s barbecue without causing a controversy.

4) A$AP Rocky ft. Skrillex & Bird Nam Nam – “Wild For the Night”

“Fuckin Problems” is out, but don’t count out the man behind it. “Wild For the Night” sits at the intersection of things that are really in right now: Skrillex and deep voices. The song can get a little dull toward the end, but a good DJ will craft the playlist in a way that keeps the energy alive.

3) Major Lazer ft. Elephant Man & Opal – Wind Up

This song is all over the place, but only because it wants you to be. Be warned: this is not a party starter. If you play this too early, your guests will eat all of the hot wings and depart, posthaste! This is a song that should be played right before the party meets its peak. Few things on your playlist will be able to match it, we assure you.

2) Danny Brown x Trampy – “Express Yourself”

This is not the “Express Yourself” by N.W.A. that you know and love. Full capabilities will be shown, but not on the microphone. Danny Brown is doing some serious work right now when it comes to making people #turnup. His screeching voice can’t be handled by all, so some people will stop dancing, but for the people who know what’s up, insanity will ensue. Make sure no one is on or near the pool ledge. There will be elbows.

1) TNGHT – “Acrylics”

It takes a resilient DJ to drop “Acrylics” at a party. There will be hateful stares and some people will even approach the DJ booth shouting, “What the fuck is this?!” but be strong, oh brave one. When that beat drops so will panties, inhibitions, frowns and boxers. Exercise caution.