Summer is finally here, the season of balmy backyard soirées, sizzling rooftop barbecues, and poolside parties. But what would a summer making memories be without the perfect soundtrack? Here are seven artists you need to know this summer for your sun-soaked adventures.
1. KAMAUU
KAMAUU is a Brooklyn-based musician renowned for his unique fusion of rap, poetry, and thought-provoking lyrics.
Teaming up with Adi Oasis, KAMAUU’s track “MANGO,” is the ultimate summer anthem, capturing universal feelings of love, selflessness, and the power of compassion. The track draws inspiration from the ’90s and ’70s, two golden eras of R&B, soul, and funk, which KAMAUU combines to create an irresistible groove that will make even your most dance-aversive friends break out into a side shuffle this summer.
2. NEONE the Wonderer
Next up on artists you need to know this summer? NEONE the Wonderer is an innovative musician blending genres and experimental beats to create captivating narratives.
Don’t forget to add “RagJazz” to your summer playlist. This road trip anthem combines soft-spoken verses (ideal for a group singalong) with soothing reggae vibes and the soulful melodies of a saxophone. Its steady and simple rhythms make it the perfect sonic backing as you cruise down scenic highways.
3. Ax and the Hatchetmen
Ax and the Hatchetmen is a Chicago-based, seven-piece rock and roll band who make the kind of music that captures the essence of nostalgia, tranquility, or those fleeting summer dalliances.
With its infectious melody, “Peach Trees” is the perfect tune for those reflective summer afternoons, whether reminiscing about a lost love or daydreaming under a tree.
4. Swimming With Bears
Swimming With Bears is a soulful alternative rock band from Texas. Their music revolves around celebrating the good times, and the song “Keep Smiling” does just that. With its sassy, sing-along melody and toe-tapping beat, this one will keep you grinning from ear to ear. It’s the perfect tune to kick-start any party and keep it alive well into the night.
5. Suzy Jones
Suzy Jones is a singer-songwriter that captivates listeners with commanding vocals and lyrics laden with sentimental themes.
Her empowering songs touch on themes of breakups, make-ups, and feminism. This summer, add Suzy’s “Final Piece” to your playlists for personal introspection and singalongs with your nearest and dearest.
6. Remy Reilly
Remy Reilly is a Dallas-based indie pop singer who draws inspiration from the likes of Norah Jones, and The Cure.
Whether you’re seeking guitar-heavy rock anthems or nostalgic tales of young love, Remy’s music serves as the perfect companion for wherever you get your summer on. If you’re in the mood for something edgier, “Burn” is a feminist anthem to belt out while dancing around your bedroom.
7. Jae Luna
Jae Luna is an artist from Orange County, California, who pushes the boundaries of genre with his unique fusion of Lo-Fi, Hip-Hop, and electronic music.
Whether you’re looking for a chilled-out poolside tune or an infectious groove for your beach party, Jae Luna’s adaptable music sets the ambiance for all outdoor escapes. Enter “Summertime 2016“, a track with trippy and synthy vibes that truly creates a kaleidoscopic experience for the ears.
Ready to discover new artists live? Browse shows.
Words by Laura Woods
Photo credit: Jae Luna, photo by Connor Gaskey
