The Best Summer Songs of 2017

We've been counting down some of the best summer songs from recent years on Skiddle and this time it's the turn of 2017. This list will bring back plenty of nostalgia, as it's packed full of huge hits and memorable gems. Some of these songs spent absolutely ages in the charts of the summer. Here's a 2017 refresher...

 

That's What I Like- Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars is one of the liveliest performers in modern R&B. Always one to get you off of your feet, That's What I Like was no change of pace for him. The highest-charting single from his album 23K Magic, it exemplifies all the best parts of his artistry from those icnic vocals to his eye for a groove. 

 

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Havana- Camilla Cabello ft Young Thug

Havana was inescapable in 2017. The song featuring Young Thug was what launched Camilla Cabello into being a huge star. The hook on the chorus is irresistible and the track is the perfect mix of flamenco and pop. A tale of heartbreak, the music video is pretty special too.

 

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Humble- Kendrick Lamar

Kendrick Lamar is one of the greatest modern rappers and in 2017 he released DAMN, the album that most believe is his best one to date. HUMBLE is a standout track on an excellent album, with a sinister piano melody that dominates the track but still allows Kendrick's flow to run free.

 

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Portugal. The Man- Feel It Still

Love it or hate it, you can't deny that Portugal. The Man's single Feel It Still was absolutely everywhere, in fact, it spent so much time in the charts that it still ended up being there in 2018. We haven't heard much from the group since in terms of mainstream success but the free-flowing verses of Feel It Still will always be remembered.

 

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Kasabian- Bless This Acid House

Whilst Kasabian is a different band now, they will be remembered for their hits. Bless This Acid House took over the indie airwaves and it capitalised on an anthemic chorus, where the vocals stir together at the same time and make you want to instantly raise your voice in unison. They definitely had festival season in mind with this one.

 

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Lorde- Green Light

Lorde's Melodrama is undoubtedly a pop masterpiece. With so many brilliant tunes to go for, we picked Green Light as a highlight with its bombastic shout of, "I'm waiting for it that green light, I want it!" How could you not revel in the sheer joy and excitement that this song brings to the table? From the corner of your bedroom to the dancefloor, this one encourages you to get up off your feet.

 

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Frank Ocean- Chanel

Frank Ocean has been sorely missed in recent years and songs like Chanel are the reason why. Full of small details that completely engross you in the world that he creates, it's a song that exudes a sense of cool. It is the kind of song that sets out how much of a forward-thinker he is.

 

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Drake- Passionfruit

Drake is always a shoo-in for having one of the best summer songs of the year. In 2017 it was the turn of his track Passionfruit which saw him draw from a dancehall-inspired sound. There's so much smoothness to the track, the production is amazing and the flows are irresistible. 

 

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Paramore- Hard Times

Paramore went pop for their last album and the standout single was Hard Times, which cleverly dresses up continual trauma in light and bubbly synths. There's no doubt that pop suits Hayley Williams perfectly, her gift for writing chorus' that you want to scream right back will never fade.

 

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Stormzy- Big For Your Boots

Big For Your Boots was prime Stormzy territory. In 2017 he was at the peak of his powers, taking his place as the king of Grime. Big For Your Boots is tongue in cheek, full of personality and flair which is what makes Stromzy a huge draw in the first place. A huge bop from the Grime legend.

 

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Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.