1995: “Waterfalls” – TLC

The smash hit “Waterfalls” by TLC defined the summer of 1995 and became the band’s signature song. While the song is upbeat, it’s a serious, cautionary tale of violence and disease, telling listeners to avoid “chasing waterfalls,” or dangerous behaviors.
The lyrics caution against drugs, violence, and the HIV epidemic. The line “Three letters took him to this final resting place” describes the death of a young man to the disease. The song’s popularity is a testament to the issues that listeners faced in the 1990s.
1996: “Macarena (Bayside Boys Remix)” – Los Del Río

¡Ay Macarena! If you’ve been to any party in the last 30 years, you’ve probably heard it. This Spanglish hit by Los Del Rio was one of the top songs of 1996, accompanied by the popular dance. It broke records, staying #1 for 60 weeks and defining the decade.
The lyrics describe a woman named Macarena, who is looking to have some fun, despite being in a relationship. Its flamenco origins and upbeat English verses, added by the Bayside Boys, made the song a timeless hit.
1997: “MMMBop” – Hanson

“MMMBop” by Hanson is the epitome of fun vibes, so it’s no wonder that it was the song of the summer in 1997. It’s the band's most well-known song, with a catchy pop melody that makes you wanna dance.
While the song might be on your feel-good playlist, its lyrics are a little sad, with the band discussing how life passes us by. It’s the perfect reminder to live your life to the fullest!
1998: “Nice & Slow” – Usher

We can’t talk about summer hits without mentioning this R&B gem. “Nice & Slow” was certified gold a month after its release, and Usher’s first #1 single on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song captured an intimate, laid-back vibe that was perfect for warm evenings and late-night drives. Usher’s iconic sound made it the perfect song for anyone having a hot and heavy summer.
1999: “No Scrubs” – TLC

Possibly one of the most iconic songs of the 90s, “No Scrubs” not only defined the last summer of the decade, but also inspired generations of women to stop dating bums.
No car? No money? To the bottom of the roster you go! The song clearly resonated with women everywhere, going #1 in Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand, and earning TLC a Grammy.
2000: “Breathe” – Faith Hill

The new millennium brought us this country pop hit. “Breathe” by Faith Hill is a sweet ballad that describes the feeling of falling in love. Faith Hill’s powerful voice breathes life into the song, making it easy to see why it was the #1 single in 2000.
With soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics, it struck a chord with listeners, embodying love, warmth, and vulnerability.
2001: “Hanging by a Moment” – Lifehouse

Lifehouse was huge in the 2000s, and it all started with “Hanging by a Moment” in 2001. It was their lead single for the debut album No Name Face. Although the single only reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, it was considered the best-performing single of the year.
It marked the beginning of a long string of success for the band, with songs like “You and Me” and “Halfway Gone.” Their music resonated with a large variety of people, earning awards for Most Performed Song on College Radio, Best Pop, and Rock New Artist of the Year.
2002: “Hot in Herre” – Nelly

It is nearly impossible to go to any party without hearing this iconic song. “Hot in Herre” by Nelly is a club classic and helped the rapper win a Grammy for Best Male Rap Solo Performance.
It was the lead single off the album Nellyville, which landed at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 Music Albums. Since his boom in the early 2000s, Nelly has sold over 21 million records.
2003: “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z

2003 was electrified by the release of “Crazy in Love,” the powerhouse collaboration between Beyoncé and Jay-Z. With its explosive horns, infectious rhythm, and Beyoncé’s commanding vocals, the track became an instant anthem.
It was impossible to escape that summer, blasting from car stereos, club speakers, and every backyard party.
2004: “Yeah!” – Usher featuring Lil Jon & Ludacris

The summer of 2004 was marked by the diamond status single “Yeah!” Usher’s smooth vocals, Lil Jon’s signature crunk vibes, and Ludacris's sharp verses blended perfectly, creating a sound that defined the era.
Its magnetic energy made it impossible to sit still, and it stayed at the top of the charts for weeks, becoming the soundtrack of one unforgettable summer. In 2005, the single won Best Rap/Sung Collaboration at the 47th Annual Grammys and is one of Usher’s best songs ever.
2005: “We Belong Together” – Mariah Carey

2005 will always be remembered for Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together,” the emotional powerhouse that completely ruled the summer. A massive comeback moment for Mariah, “We Belong Together” shattered records, holding the #1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 14 weeks.
Its soulful depth and raw vulnerability made it an anthem of love and longing. It won 2 Grammys for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance and Best R&B Rap Song. What an impressive comeback!
2006: “Bad Day” – Daniel Powter

One of the most relatable songs of the decade, “Bad Day” by Daniel Powter was so popular it became the first song ever to sell two million digital copies in the States. The cheesy song has become an anthem for people going through a hard time. It went on to have a life of its own, being used in commercials, American Idol, and covered by Alvin and the Chipmunks.
Unlike some other artists on this list, this would be the singer's last popular song, to the point where Billboard named him the biggest one-hit wonder of the decade.
2007: “Umbrella” – Rihanna featuring Jay-Z

2007 was flooded with the iconic beats of “Umbrella” by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, a monumental track that defined the summer and established Rihanna as a pop icon. With its glossy production, unforgettable “ella, ella” hook, and Jay-Z’s smooth introduction, the song became the anthem for warm, sunny days and stormy sing-alongs alike.
The music video, with Rihanna’s edgy black outfit and hypnotic choreography, amplified the song’s resonance, showcasing a bold, artistic side that helped redefine her image. “Umbrella” signaled the end of Rihanna’s girl-next-door persona, defined her third album Good Girl Gone Bad, and catapulted the Barbadian singer into stardom.
2008: “I Kissed a Girl” – Katy Perry

Topping the Billboard Hot 100 for seven consecutive weeks, “I Kissed a Girl” became the soundtrack to countless summer moments, from carefree nights out to endless poolside dances.
Its empowering message of exploration and individuality challenged norms while celebrating freedom of expression, making it an anthem for self-discovery.
2009: “Boom Boom Pow” – The Black Eyed Peas

“Boom Boom Pow” rocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, where it reigned for an impressive 12 weeks. With its robotic beats, auto-tuned vocals, and cutting-edge production, the song felt like it was beamed in from another time.
Its infectious energy and bold innovation captivated audiences, making it the go-to track for parties, clubs, and summer playlists everywhere. The song’s striking lyrics, futuristic vibe, and unforgettable hook made it feel larger than life, resonating with a generation ready to dance their way into a tech-forward future.
2010: “California Gurls” – Katy Perry featuring Snoop Dogg

2010 exploded with sunshine and candy-coated vibes, thanks to Katy Perry’s “California Gurls” featuring Snoop Dogg. Designed as an ode to carefree California living, it painted a vibrant picture of palm trees, beaches, and endless fun under the sun.
“California Gurls” dominated the Billboard Hot 100, claiming the #1 spot for six weeks. Beyond its chart success, the accompanying pastel-hued music video was a cultural moment all on its own, perfect for sunny summer days.
2011: “Rolling in the Deep” – Adele

2011 was transformed by the powerful voice of Adele and her breakout hit “Rolling in the Deep.” Adele’s fierce delivery and the song’s blend of emotion and energy made it impossible to ignore.
“Rolling in the Deep” dominated the Billboard Hot 100, spending seven weeks at #1 and earning countless covers and tributes. Its raw, heart-wrenching themes of heartbreak and empowerment struck a universal chord.
2012: “Call Me Maybe” – Carly Rae Jepsen

2012 was the summer of “Call Me Maybe,” the impossibly catchy pop phenomenon by Carly Rae Jepsen that seemed to take over the world. Whether you were a teen singing into a hairbrush, an adult humming along in the car, or part of a lip-syncing parody video, “Call Me Maybe” had a way of making everyone have fun.
Its lighthearted vibe and youthful charm made it the perfect soundtrack for carefree summer days and nights in 2012. For many, “Call Me Maybe” will forever spark memories of flip-flops, sunshine, and the glorious simplicity of a perfect pop hit.
2013: “Blurred Lines” – Robin Thicke featuring T.I. & Pharrell

2013 was the year of “Blurred Lines,” the smooth and infectious hit by Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell. Its retro-inspired beat, reminiscent of classic R&B and funk, brought a feel-good energy that was impossible to resist.
Stuck to the Billboard Hot 100 for 33 weeks, “Blurred Lines” became an undeniable global sensation. Although the song stirred conversations around its themes, it undeniably cemented its place as a cultural phenomenon in 2013’s pop landscape.
2014: “Fancy” – Iggy Azalea featuring Charli XCX

2014 was all about being “Fancy,” thanks to the chart-topping collaboration between Iggy Azalea and Charli XCX. With its confident lyrics, catchy hook, and electro-hip-hop beat, the track was impossible to ignore.
“Fancy” dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for six weeks, cementing its place as the summer anthem of 2014. The music video, inspired by the classic film Clueless, added a playful, nostalgic vibe that resonated with millennials and pop culture lovers alike.
2015: “See You Again” – Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth

“See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa featuring Charlie Puth was written as a tribute to the late Paul Walker, who passed in 2013. The song soared to immense popularity, offering a moving and uplifting message of love, loss, and remembrance.
Its connection to the “Fast & Furious” franchise added layers of meaning, and its universal themes of friendship and farewell resonated deeply. Playing everywhere from car radios to graduation ceremonies, the song captured the bittersweet beauty of cherishing memories while moving forward, making 2015’s summer both tender and unforgettable.
2016: “One Dance” – Drake featuring Wizkid & Kyla

2016 belonged to Drake’s “One Dance,” a hypnotic track featuring Wizkid and Kyla that brought dancehall and afrobeats influences front and center. Beyond its chart-topping success, holding the Billboard Hot 100’s #1 spot for 10 weeks, “One Dance” represented a seamless fusion of global sounds.
It bridged cultures and introduced many to the intoxicating essence of afrobeats. The track’s universal appeal and breezy vibe turned it into an anthem of escapism, embodying the carefree energy of warm summer nights.
2017: “Despacito” – Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber

2017 was undeniably the summer of “Despacito,” the infectious reggaetón anthem by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, supercharged by Justin Bieber’s remix. With its sultry rhythm, smooth Spanish lyrics, and captivating melody, the track had an unparalleled global appeal.
Breaking language barriers, “Despacito” topped the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-tying 16 weeks and brought Latin music back into the worldwide spotlight. It’s one of the first Spanglish songs to dominate the summer since “Macarena” in 1996!
2018: “God’s Plan” – Drake

2018 was marked by the undeniable influence of Drake’s “God’s Plan,” a song that stayed at the top of the charts and the hearts of fans all summer long. With its introspective lyrics and smooth production, the track struck a perfect balance of vulnerability and triumph.
What set “God’s Plan” apart, however, was its impact beyond music. The music video, featuring Drake giving back to communities, resonated deeply with audiences and amplified its cultural significance.
2019: “Old Town Road” – Lil Nas X featuring Billy Ray Cyrus

Holding the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 19 weeks, “Old Town Road” brought infectious laughter and creative energy to the summer of 2019. TikTok fueled this hit, proving its ability to influence the music industry.
“Old Town Road” is the first country song to define the summer since “Breathe” by Faith Hill. Overall, it’s the first country rap song to make #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and the fastest song to achieve diamond status, selling 10 million units within a year. It's a memorable hit for a memorable year!
2020: “The Box” – Roddy Ricch

2020’s soundtrack wouldn’t be complete without “The Box” by Roddy Ricch, a track that dominated not just playlists but the entire cultural conversation. With its distinctive “eee err” ad-lib and compelling beat, the song was instantly recognizable and inescapable during its reign.
Topping the Billboard Hot 100 for eleven weeks, “The Box” became the anthem of a summer spent navigating unique challenges. Its infectious energy and Roddy’s razor-sharp delivery provided a much-needed escape, making it the defining jam of that unforgettable year.
2021: “Butter” – BTS

K-pop group BTS has been taking the U.S. charts by storm ever since their single with Halsey, “Boy With Love,” which charted at #8 in 2019. “Butter” further cemented the group’s influence on music and exposed English-speaking listeners to the impressive world of Korean music.
The song is a funky, disco-pop hit that broke records, topping the Billboard Hot 100 for nine weeks and dominating streaming platforms.
2022: “As It Was” – Harry Styles

The lead single off his album Harry’s House, “As It Was” was an instant hit, skyrocketing up the charts and becoming the best-selling global single of 2022. The lyrics convey an undertone of loneliness and nostalgia, despite the song's upbeat nature.
The song begins with Style’s goddaughter leaving him a voicemail after he missed her call. He then describes how he’s “no good alone,” and that his father “just wants to know that [Harry’s] well.” It reminds people of the importance of being around people who care about you.
2023: “Flowers” – Miley Cyrus

2023 was the summer of empowerment, and Miley Cyrus’s “Flowers” stood tall as the anthem of self-love and independence. After Cyrus’ breakup with Liam Hemsworth in 2019, the singer became inspired to sing about finding her strength after the decade-long relationship ended.
“Flowers” dominated playlists, karaoke nights, and beach outings. Its message of loving yourself first resonated deeply, making it a mantra for the summer of 2023.
2024: “Espresso” — Sabrina Carpenter

#2 on the U.S. charts, but #1 in our hearts. “Espresso” was the song of the summer in 2024. Likening herself to caffeine, since she keeps her lover from sleeping, Carpenter’s effortless pop brings a new style to songs about romantic relationships.
The master of innuendos, “Espresso” is just another testament to the singer's lyrical prowess. Her chart domination is expected to continue with the release of her seventh studio album, Man's Best Friend.
