TORONTO — Last summer there was “Fancy” and “Rude” (not to mention “Happy”). A year earlier there was “Blurred Lines” and “Get Lucky” (and let’s not forget “We Can’t Stop”).
So, which earworms will become this year’s songs of the summer?
There are plenty of strong contenders from pop stars like Taylor Swift and Britney Spears as well as newcomers like OMI, breakouts like Andy Grammer — and even a Canadian or two.
Is this summer’s “Call Me Maybe” or “Party Rock Anthem” among the songs highlighted below? Give them a listen and then vote for your favourite.
The Weeknd – “I Can’t Feel My Face”
This catchy new song from the Toronto-born artist was leaked online on May 26, prompting Universal Music to file copyright claims to get it removed. Rumoured to be the first single from The Weeknd’s upcoming new album, “I Can’t Feel My Face” was produced by hitmaker Max Martin. The song currently (and likely temporarily) exists here.
Icona Pop – “Emergency”
Many people assumed Swedish synthpop duo Icona Pop would be a one-hit wonder (remember the 2012 earworm “I Love It”) but Caroline Hjelt and Aino Jawo collaborated with Erik Hassle on the new single “Emergency” — and it smells like a hit.
Adam Lambert – “Ghost Town”
The first single from Lambert’s new album The Original High (out June 16) starts off slow, suggesting it isn’t eligible for song of the summer. But then, around the 50-second mark, it becomes a pulsing dance track with an infectious whistle effect. Expect to hear this one pumping in the clubs all summer long.
Andy Grammer – “Honey, I’m Good”
This ditty has been out for awhile but it’s poised to become a summer smash thanks to its square-dancing chorus and fun message about sticking with the one you love.
Skrillex and Diplo (feat. Justin Bieber) – “Where Are U Now”
This dance track, which features the vocals of Canadian pop star Justin Bieber, has been out for a few months and is a bigger hit overseas than it is here. Still, it could sizzle this summer.
Tove Lo – “Talking Body”
One of the sexiest songs of the summer is all about the pleasures of another’s body. “If you love me right / We f*** for life / On and on and on,” sings Tove Lo. We’re blushing.
Rachel Platten – “Fight Song”
Nothing screams summer hit like an anthemic empowerment song — and Rachel Platten has delivered one. “Fight Song” will resonate with females and will likely get plenty of airplay at LGBT Pride celebrations across the country.
Britney Spears & Iggy Azalea – “Pretty Girls”
Speaking of girl power, this pop collaboration is getting cranked out of car stereos and pumped out of earphones at the gym. Welcome back, Britney.
OMI – “Cheerleader”
The boys need a summer song, too. This one, from Jamaican artist OMI, was released last year but only recently cracked the Billboard Hot 100. The reggae-infused track — which includes an unlikely trumpet solo — is a celebration of women.
Taylor Swift feat. Kendrick Lamar – “Bad Blood”
It’s quite possibly illegal to go for a drive in the summer without cranking some T-Swift. The pop star has partnered with Kendrick Lamar for the infectious “Bad Blood” — which is poised to be her sing-a-long smash of the season.
Jason Derulo – “Want To Want Me”
The singer with a habit of saying his name in his songs is back with this catchy hit that’s as hot as the pavement in July.
BELOW: Which one of these is your pick for song of the summer?
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