#Spotify #SummertimeInThe518 #KatieHopsicker #TheSpot518
By KATIE HOPSICKER
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The sun beats down on my sun-blocked skin, kids jump and splash in the water and my Dad has taken up residence by the grill. My friends and I play badminton and cornhole as the sweet, humid air accompanies the fiery, vibrant sunset. Fireworks burst and sparkle over a campfire cooking fluffy marshmallows. I sit and watch the night sky and ponder over the never-ending map of stars.
But my amazing summer is not complete. What is missing? Music.
Music is powerful. It is able to shift a mood, change a mindset, and influence one’s being. Music tells stories of experience, history, and hope. It is impacted by the past and affects the present and future. I grew up listening to music, and know that any summer accompanied by music is sure to be full of unforgettable memories.
As the temperatures rise most people gravitate toward water. At the beach, lake or pool, spark a happy mood while singing along to classics like “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire, “Come On Eileen” by Dexys Midnight Runners or “Build Me Up Buttercup” by The Foundations.
My favorite place to listen to music is in the car. Roll down the windows, invite in the cool breeze and turn up the volume while playing “Electric Feel” by MGMT or “Love Is Bigger Than Anything In Its Way” by U2. The feel-good groove and contagious beat with have you pressing re-play for every road trip.
Two years ago, I saw Fitz and The Tantrums at Upstate Concert Hall, and their hits like “The Walker,” “Roll Up” and “Out of My League” are the perfect additions to a pool party playlist. Their catchy tunes are sure to keep everyone having fun in the sun.
At your Fourth of July barbecue, keep the parents happy with Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in U.S.A.” or pretend you are at Tanglewood’s annual James Taylor concert with “Fire And Rain.” The feel good classics will have every adult belting out their favorites.
In high school, the best times are spent with friends, whether it be playing sports and games, hanging around the campfire, or going on late night adventures. Stay young and fun with songs like “8TEEN” by Khalid, or “Feel It Still” by Portugal. The Man.
Finally, take a hike or bike ride, or chill out under the stars to finish a great summer day. Listen to “Island In The Sun” by Weezer or “1612” and “Wait for the Moment” by Vulfpeck to relax and groove to their unique sounds.
In my opinion, the perfect summer is scripted by the sound of song, and no backyard barbecue, pool party or road trip is ever complete without music. On Spotify, check out TheSpot518’s “Summertime in the 518” playlist to find songs for every summer day.