A family outdoor gathering during the summer holidays is a great time to let loose and enjoy a hearty meal. It’s one of the best aspects of summer, and as you get older, you learn to appreciate these outings more.
Whether you want to throw a summer BBQ party or a pool party, you need music for entertainment. Summer songs are usually lighthearted and upbeat, with a fast tempo and a groovy rhythm that makes everyone want to dance.
However, there’s more to it. We’ve shortlisted good songs to dance to that will kill you at your party. Keep on scrolling.
For a summer garden party, select happy songs to keep the vibe positive and easy-going. Here’s our list.
“Espresso” is undoubtedly the song of the season. It features synths, bass, drums, and Sabrina’s engaging vocals. The song is lighthearted and nonsensical, with its lyrics in a way that only Sabrina can pull off. It’s catchy and unforgettable, perfect for dancing at a summer party.
This song is a smooth blend of dancehall and pop, featuring rhythmic beats to compliment Drake’s melodic vocals.
The instrumentation includes synthesizers, sub-bass, electric piano, and percussive elements such as snares and hi-hats. It gives off a relaxed yet energetic feel because of its unique sound.
A perfect song for a hot summer’s day with its nostalgic pop-rock tune. It also has undeniable sexual undertones as the music video proclaims, “This video is dedicated to touching.”
The instrumentation features electric guitars, bass guitars, brass elements, and percussion including drums and tambourine.
But the best part is Harry’s vocals as he delivers light vibratos and subtle vocal runs that make this song playful and carefree.
"Levitating" is an upbeat pop-disco track with a retro feel. The song reached no. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and was in the top 10 in the UK in 2020.
Its infectious, upbeat rhythm and feel-good lyrics with bouncy synthesizers, electric bass, and handclaps make the song very danceable.
It’s a feel-good song about all the things the narrator will get his lover and the grand and luxurious life they’ll be living together.
Bruno's vocal performance in this track is marked by a smooth, confident tone that reaches its peak at the chorus of "Gold jewelry shining so bright / Strawberry champagne on ice."
"Shotgun" is an ideal track for a relaxed outdoor gathering like a summer BBQ, thanks to its infectious and upbeat nature.
George Ezra's rich baritone voice, instrumentally backed by acoustic guitar, bassline, drums, and tambourine, sounds lively and warm.
This track is soulful and introspective, blending elements of indie, folk, and alternative music. Hozier has outdone himself lyrically with the poetic verses in this song.
It explores themes of love and vulnerability, delving into the complexities of romantic relationships. Play this song when things are dying down and your party entertainment is closing.
This pop anthem is one of Taylor’s most memorable songs. It’s an upbeat, energetic song that’s about shaking off criticism and negativity.
She even incorporates a rap-like spoken word section in the bridge. Everyone at your party will be singing along and dancing to this song.
"Shut Up and Dance" tells the story of an exhilarating dance-floor encounter, celebrating living in the moment and letting go of inhibitions. It’s a song with a meet-cute tale.
Musically, the hi-hats, cymbals, and drums give this song a steady rhythm that’s complimented by electric guitars, bass, and synthesizers. You can’t help but dance to this song as the infectious chorus hits.
"Dynamite" by BTS is an upbeat disco-pop track. The vocal performance includes smooth melodies, harmonies, and rhythmic phrasing from all members.
Handclaps and percussive elements add to this song's grooviness and energy. The lyrics are about enjoying the moment, having fun, and spreading happiness.
"Good as Hell" by Lizzo is an empowering anthem about self-love and confidence. The song encourages listeners to prioritize their happiness and well-being after tough times like a breakup.
Lizzo's soulful vocals add a touch of beauty to the motivational lyrics, like "boss up and change your life”. It’s an energetic, feel-good song perfect for a dance party.
This indie-pop track topped the charts in over 30 countries after its release. Tones and I has a high-pitched vocal delivery that’s memorable and distinct.
Moreover, the track tells a somewhat deep story of the validation that performance artists seek. Yet the playful melody and its electropop rhythm make it a party bopper.
When “Lush Life” plays, you immediately get a sense that you’re living your best life, and the song gives you some main-character energy.
With lyrics like “I live my day as if it was the last/Live my day as if there was no past” and Zara Larsson’s fierce vocals, you feel untouchable.
This song has a welcoming and celebratory vibe, with the narrator inviting everyone to his abode. He even asks them to take control and play the music too loud as part of his hospitality. Now that’s someone who knows how to party.
If you have watched Netflix’s “Never Have I Ever”, you already know this song. It’s groovy and incorporates electronic elements with amazing guitar riffs to combine into a catchy melody. Dave Bayley’s vocals are breathy and pair well with the music.
It’s a playful and suggestive song that describes the beginning of a spontaneous fling and a rendezvous at the beach.
This upbeat, fast-tempo track will have everyone rushing to the dance floor. DNCE may be short-lived, but this song will live on as their masterpiece.
"Havana" is a blend of Latin pop, pop, and reggaeton. The song’s Latin influence is most pronounced in the rhythm and instrumentation.
When the song was released in 2007, it peaked at no. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making it Camila’s most successful song to date.
The song features a dancehall-inspired beat, with a relaxed, rhythmic groove that makes it highly danceable. The song is all about having fun and living for the small joys in life. In the chorus, Sia chants “I don’t need no money/As long as I can feel the beat”.
“Peaches” is a mellow R&B song that begins with its catchy and pervasive chorus. If you don’t mind the repetition of the upbeat and nonsensical chorus, this song has amazing vocals by Daniel and Giveon. The rhythm is very groovy, and you can easily dance to it.
"Old Town Road" blurred the lines between country and rap. The song features a banjo riff, which gives it a distinct country flavour, but Lil Nas X delivers his verses with a rap cadence and attitude.
This song achieved remarkable chart success, spending a record-breaking 19 weeks at number one on the Billboard Hot 100.
A summer party should leave you feeling free and happy while you bask in your family's mutual connection.
If done right, you’ll feel nostalgic for all the other summers you spent with the same people. It’s a magical feeling that can be made more powerful with the right music.
We’ve kept our playlist full of upbeat tracks with a lighthearted and carefree vibe while ensuring they’re good songs to dance to.
However, if you want everyone engaged and truly creating an immersive atmosphere, nothing beats the power of live music and nostalgic tribute acts.
