Every season of life needs a soundtrack. So, I’ve put together a summer playlist of some of my favorite songs just for you.

Music is so powerful. Just a few notes can instantly transform your mood or take you back to another place and time. When I’m traveling, there’s always music attached to whatever I’m doing and wherever I am. Music helps us make memories. For instance, when I hear Future’s “Wait 4 U” I will always think of this year’s French Open.

But before we get into this playlist – two things. One, most of these songs on this list are for mature listening audiences only, so make sure you download the PG versions if you plan to blast this at your next family cookout. Secondly, you should know that while I do love trendy tracks from artists like Jack Harlow and City Girls, my music tastes run the gamut. I love some Nicki Minaj, Cardi B, Ariana Grande and Jorja Smith, but I’m just as likely to be listening to Adele, Celine Dion, LeAnn Rimes or Shania Twain. For summer, I do like to listen to top trending tracks the most, but don’t be surprised to find me rocking out to some Kirk Franklin too.

This playlist I’ve put together for you has a little bit of everything. You’ll find the jams you can play while you’re working out or getting ready to go out with your crew. And I’ve got some mellow music for when you’re ready to take it down a notch and chill with your boo.

“Cuff It” – Beyonce

I had to kick off this list with a song from Queen Bey’s long-awaited album Renaissance. To be honest, every single track is playlist worthy. Self-love anthems like “I’m That Girl” and “Cozy” will have you ready to start your own personal renaissance. But “Cuff It” stands out as the perfect bop for a summer day party.

“Dua Lipa” – Jack Harlow

Of course, there’s some Jack Harlow on this list. Whether you love his sound or not, you can’t deny that these days everyone’s talking about this Kentucky-bred rapper.

“Be Honest” – Jorja Smith featuring Burna Boy

Jorja Smith’s style has it all -- reggae, hip-hop, and modern R&B. Her sound is perfect for summer.

“Up” – Cardi B

If you’ve had a rough year so far, let’s declare that this summer everything is going up!

“GYALLIS” - Capella Grey

Any song that samples Juvenile’s “Back That Thang Up” is going to get everybody on the dance floor.

“Skyline” – Khalid

This song sounds like sunshine! How can it not be on my summer playlist?!

“2step” – Ed Sheeran featuring Lil Baby

Press play on this track whenever you have a bad day and need to dance your cares away.

“When You’re Gone” – Shawn Mendes

Simply put, Shawn Mendes is always a good idea.

“Big Energy” – Latto

For me, it’s the Mariah Carey “Fantasy” sample that really puts this track on top.

“Twerkulator” – City Girls

Yep, I’m still rocking out to this 2021 hit. Add this to your workout playlist to crank up your cardio.

“Super Duper Love” – Joss Stone

Here’s a throwback for you! This track from Joss Stone’s 2003 debut album The Soul Sessions is perfect for those summer days when you’re riding around in your automobile, your baby beside you at the wheel.

"Feeling Myself" – Nicki Minaj featuring Beyoncé

I think we can all agree that this is the hot girl summer anthem.

“Have Mercy” – Chloe

If Nicki and Queen Bey didn’t get you to start feeling yourself, Chloe will pick up where they left off.

“Way 2 Sexy” – Drake featuring Future & Young Thug

Repeat after me: Every body is a beach body. The next time you feel insecure in a swimsuit, turn on this track and remind yourself that you’re too sexy for self-doubt.

“Peru” - Fireboy DML & Ed Sheeran

Whether you’re jet-setting or trend-setting this summer, this track is the perfect tune. I went to Ed Sheeran's concert at Wembley right before Wimbledon and absolutely loved it!

“positions” – Ariana Grande

I am a complete fan girl for this woman! And this song is the perfect soundtrack to summer romance.

“Die Hard” – Kendrick Lamar featuring Blyst & Amanda Reifer

Kendrick is always keeping us on our toes, making us think deeply about life and love.

“Brighter Day” – Kirk Franklin

Yes, this playlist has gone from Cardi B to gospel music. I told you my tastes were eclectic. This track is probably my favorite Kirk Franklin song of all time and it really does brighten bad days for me.

“You Right” – Doja Cat & The Weeknd

When you’re ready to mellow out for a moment, this Doja Cat will help you relax on a warm summer night.

“City of Gods” - Fivio Foreign, Kanye West, Alicia Keys

Because I hope every city that I travel to will welcome me with open arms, I feel this song to my core.

“Wait For U” – Future featuring Drake & Tems

Maybe it’s because I’m a newlywed, but I love to listen to this song whenever I’m on the road and away from my husband.

“First Class” – Jack Harlow

Yes, more Jack Harlow. But really, I can’t think of a better song than this to listen to while flying around the world. And it’s just as good for cruising around town.

“How” – Ella Mai featuring Roddy Ricch

R&B lovers know that Ella Mai always holds it down.

“WE (Warm Embrace) – Chris Brown

If you’re looking for some summer slow jams to set the mood, Chris Brown has you covered with this track.

“Hrs & Hrs” – Muni Long

Add this song to your summer date night playlist and thank me later.

What’s on your late summer playlist?