10 Best Classic Rock Songs About Summer

Classic Rock Songs About Spring

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Our list of the 10 best classic rock songs about summer presents an article filled with some of the most legendary songs ever written about the wonders of summer. This article focuses on songs that have been specifically written about summer, as opposed to songs that just became hits during the summer. There is a difference. This list does not narrow it down to just one particular decade but rather looks back over 60 years of wonderful music released by rock and roll, pop artists, and breathtaking singers who captivated us with their music, making these memories just a little bit extra special.

There are hundreds of thousands of songs that have been written about summer, so narrowing this down to just 10 is pretty much a lottery. There are so many great ones, but we decided that if we were only going to choose 10, they would have to be 10 classics. We aimed to provide a little variety so that they are not all from the same decade or of the same style. In the end, we just want to present what we think are the best songs ever written about summertime.

# 10 – Suddenly Last Summer – The Motels

Released in 1983, “Suddenly Last Summer” by The Motels remains one of the most evocative tracks of the early ’80s. Written by lead singer Martha Davis and produced by Val Garay, the song is a haunting reflection on the fleeting nature of summer and the bittersweet passage of time. Recorded at Record One Studios in Los Angeles in early 1983, the track features the quintessential lineup of the band: Martha Davis on vocals, Marty Jourard on keyboards and saxophone, Michael Goodroe on bass, Brian Glascock on drums, and Guy Perry on guitar.

Garay, known for his meticulous production style, creates an atmospheric backdrop that perfectly complements Davis’s emotive delivery. The recording sessions captured the essence of the band’s unique sound, blending new wave sensibilities with a touch of melancholy pop. The shimmering keyboards and poignant saxophone lines are particularly noteworthy, adding layers of depth to the song’s introspective lyrics.

Critically, “Suddenly Last Summer” was a significant success. It reached number nine on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming The Motels’ highest-charting single. The song’s nostalgic themes resonated with listeners, while the accompanying music video, directed by David Fincher, further cemented its place in pop culture. The video’s surreal, dream-like visuals perfectly encapsulate the song’s reflective mood, with Davis’s charismatic performance drawing viewers into the wistful narrative.

# 9 – Summer Breeze – Seals & Crofts

Released in 1972, “Summer Breeze” by Seals & Crofts is a quintessential soft rock anthem that encapsulates the essence of warm, carefree days. Written by the duo, Jim Seals and Dash Crofts, the song was recorded at the Sound Factory in Los Angeles, a studio known for its high-quality recordings and relaxed atmosphere. Produced by Louie Shelton, the track features Seals on guitar and vocals, Crofts on mandolin and vocals, with contributions from seasoned session musicians such as drummer John Guerin and bassist Wilton Felder.

Shelton’s production on “Summer Breeze” is a masterclass in subtlety, allowing the song’s gentle melodies and harmonies to shine through. The recording sessions took place in early 1972, capturing a sound that is both polished and imbued with a natural, laid-back feel. The interplay between Seals’ smooth guitar work and Crofts’ delicate mandolin lines creates a musical backdrop that perfectly complements the song’s evocative lyrics.

“Summer Breeze” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number six on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s appeal lies in its simplicity and the vivid imagery it conjures, describing the tranquility and comfort of home on a summer evening. The accompanying music video, though simple by today’s standards, features the duo performing in a picturesque outdoor setting, reinforcing the song’s themes of nature and serenity.

# 8 – Summer of 69 – Bryan Adams

Well, we had to have this one on the list. “Summer of ’69” by Bryan Adams has become an enduring rock anthem, capturing the essence of youthful exuberance and nostalgic reflection. The song, co-written by Adams and his longtime collaborator Jim Vallance, was recorded at Little Mountain Sound Studios in Vancouver, a hub for rock music production during the 1980s. Produced by Adams and Bob Clearmountain, known for his work with Bruce Springsteen and The Rolling Stones, the track features Adams on vocals and guitar, Keith Scott on lead guitar, Dave Taylor on bass, Pat Steward on drums, and Tommy Mandel on keyboards.

Clearmountain’s production is crisp and vibrant, perfectly complementing Adams’ raspy vocals and the song’s anthemic guitar riffs. The recording sessions, which took place in 1983, captured the raw energy and heartfelt sentiment that would make “Summer of ’69” a timeless classic. The song’s lyrics, reflecting on the joys and trials of youth, resonate with a universal sense of nostalgia, making it a standout track on Adams’ fourth studio album, Reckless.

“Summer of ’69” achieved significant chart success, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Adams’ most recognizable hits. The song’s music video, directed by Steve Barron, features Adams performing with his band interspersed with scenes that evoke the carefree spirit of summer. The video’s imagery of sun-drenched streets and vibrant outdoor performances perfectly captures the song’s themes of nostalgia and youthful idealism.

# 7 – Saturday In The Park – Chicago

If this one doesn’t bring back bring you back to the days of your youth, than none of these others stand a chance. The sound of that opening piano riff always puts a smile on my face, and it reminds me of the Oval Park in the Bronx. Released in 1972 and written by Robert Lamm, the song was inspired by his experiences in New York City’s Central Park. Recorded at the renowned Caribou Ranch in Nederland, Colorado, during sessions for the band’s fifth studio album, Chicago V, the track features a lush arrangement that showcases Chicago’s signature blend of rock and jazz.

Produced by James William Guercio, the song highlights the talents of Chicago’s core lineup: Robert Lamm on vocals and keyboards, Terry Kath on guitar, Peter Cetera on bass, Danny Seraphine on drums, and the horn section comprising Lee Loughnane on trumpet, James Pankow on trombone, and Walter Parazaider on saxophone and flute. Guercio’s production emphasizes the song’s vibrant and joyful atmosphere, with the horns playing a central role in creating its upbeat and celebratory sound.

“Saturday in the Park” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Chicago’s most enduring hits. The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a bustling park scene, filled with families, street performers, and the simple pleasures of a sunny day. The accompanying music video features the band performing amidst the lively setting of a park, reinforcing the song’s themes of community and urban joy.

# 6 – California Girls – The Beach Boys

Since we decided to limit one Summer song per artist because there re just so many thousands of them written, picking only one from the Beach Boys proved to be the biggest challenge of this list. If there ever was a band in the history of rock and roll music and popular songs that wrote about the summertime, it was obviously the Beach Boys. So how does one pick the perfect summertime song to represent the Beach Boys on this list? We just went with the one we thought was the most popular. Even though “Good Vibrations” is our favorite Beach Boys song of all time we just thought “California Girls fit the tone of this article a little better

Released in 1965, “California Girls” by The Beach Boys is a timeless ode to the sunny allure of the Golden State and its beautiful women. Written by Brian Wilson and Mike Love, the song captures the essence of the California dream with its rich harmonies and vivid lyrics. The recording took place at Western Recorders in Hollywood, a studio renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities, during sessions for the album Summer Days (And Summer Nights!!).

Produced by Brian Wilson, “California Girls” showcases the sophisticated arrangements and lush production that would become hallmarks of his work. The lineup for this track included the core members of The Beach Boys: Brian Wilson on keyboards and backing vocals, Carl Wilson on guitar and backing vocals, Dennis Wilson on drums and backing vocals, Mike Love on lead vocals, and Al Jardine on rhythm guitar and backing vocals. The recording also featured contributions from the Wrecking Crew, a group of top session musicians, including Hal Blaine on drums, Carol Kaye on bass, and Leon Russell on piano.

“California Girls” achieved significant chart success, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics paint an idyllic picture of California, celebrating its sun-kissed beaches and the carefree lifestyle associated with the West Coast. The accompanying music video, though simple by today’s standards, features the band performing on the beach, encapsulating the laid-back and joyful spirit of the song.

Critically, “California Girls” has been lauded for its intricate harmonies, innovative production, and catchy melody. The song remains a classic summer anthem and a defining track of The Beach Boys’ career. Its influence can be seen in countless songs that followed, cementing its place in rock history.

# 5 – The Boys Of Summer – Don Henley

At the halfway point on our list is Don Henley’s magical song “The Boys of Summer” The song was written by Don Henley and Mike Campbell in 1984. “The Boys of Summer” was recorded at The Village Recorder in Los Angeles and Record Plant in New York during the sessions for Henley’s second solo album, Building the Perfect Beast. Produced by Henley and Campbell, the track features a pristine and atmospheric sound that complements its introspective lyrics.

The recording sessions brought together a talented group of musicians. Henley handled the lead vocals and drums, with Mike Campbell on guitar and bass, and Benmont Tench on keyboards. Additional musicians included Larry Klein on bass and Danny Kortchmar on guitar. Campbell’s guitar work is particularly noteworthy, providing the haunting riff that underpins the song’s nostalgic mood. The use of synthesizers and layered production techniques also played a crucial role in crafting the track’s distinctive sound.

“The Boys of Summer” achieved significant chart success, reaching number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Henley a Grammy Award for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance. The song’s lyrics reflect on the passage of time and lost love, encapsulated by the memorable line, “I can see you / Your brown skin shining in the sun.” The accompanying music video, directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino, features stark black-and-white imagery interspersed with color scenes, reinforcing the song’s themes of memory and change. The video won several awards, including the MTV Video Music Award for Best Video of the Year.

# 4 – Summer In The City – The Lovin’ Spoonful

“Summer in the City” was released in July 1966 by The Lovin’ Spoonful. Written by John Sebastian, Mark Sebastian, and Steve Boone, it was recorded at Bell Sound Studios in New York City. The opening line of this song is one of the most memorable summertime lines of all time. Maybe it’s because I grew up in New York City, that it just seems to resonate so deeply with me.

The Lovin’ Spoonful lineup for this track included John Sebastian on lead vocals and autoharp, Zal Yanovsky on lead guitar, Steve Boone on bass, and Joe Butler on drums. The recording sessions were notable for their innovative approach to capturing the sounds of the city, including car horns, jackhammers, and other urban noises, which were seamlessly integrated into the song’s arrangement. This creative use of sound effects added to the song’s authentic urban atmosphere.

“Summer in the City” achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of the defining songs of the summer of 1966. The song’s lyrics reflect the contrast between the oppressive heat of the day and the vibrant nightlife, with memorable lines like “But at night it’s a different world / Go out and find a girl.” The song’s dynamic shifts from the tense, staccato verses to the breezy, melodic chorus effectively convey the dual nature of summer in the city.

# 3 – Hot Fun In The Summertime – Sly & the Family Stone

Released in August 1969, “Hot Fun in the Summertime” by Sly & the Family Stone captures the perfect essence of summer with its joyful, laid-back groove and infectious melody. Written and produced by Sly Stone, the song was recorded at the Record Plant in New York City. This single followed the band’s landmark performance at Woodstock, encapsulating the era’s optimism and unity.

The band lineup for “Hot Fun in the Summertime” featured Sly Stone on vocals and keyboards, Freddie Stone on guitar, Larry Graham on bass, Cynthia Robinson on trumpet, Jerry Martini on saxophone, Greg Errico on drums, and Rose Stone on vocals and keyboards. The track is notable for its rich harmonies, smooth brass sections, and the seamless integration of funk, soul, and psychedelic elements, hallmarks of the band’s unique sound.

“Hot Fun in the Summertime” achieved significant commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and number three on the Billboard Soul Singles chart. The song’s lyrics nostalgically reminisce about carefree summer days and joyous moments, with lines like “All the people singing, smiling, and having fun.” Its relaxed tempo and cheerful melody made it an instant favorite, perfectly capturing the spirit of the summer season.

# 2 – “In the Summertime” – Mungo Jerry

This one just might well be the most addicting song on this list. Whenever I heard this song on the radio I can never get it melody out of my head. “In the Summertime” by Mungo Jerry is an enduring classic from 1970 that epitomizes the carefree, sun-drenched days of summer. Written by the band’s frontman Ray Dorset, the song was recorded in a small studio in Puddletown, Dorset, England. Produced by Barry Murray, the track captures a spontaneous and joyful spirit that resonated deeply with listeners worldwide.

Mungo Jerry’s lineup for this track included Ray Dorset on vocals and guitar, Colin Earl on piano, Mike Cole on bass, and Paul King on banjo and jug. The recording was characterized by its minimalistic yet vibrant arrangement, featuring a catchy skiffle beat, cheerful melody, and memorable lyrics. The incorporation of unconventional instruments like the jug added a unique texture to the song, contributing to its distinct sound.

“In the Summertime” achieved monumental commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and the top spot in charts across multiple countries, including Canada, Australia, and South Africa. In the United States, it peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures of summer—driving around, enjoying the sunshine, and taking a relaxed approach to life—with the famous lines, “In the summertime when the weather is high, you can stretch right up and touch the sky.”

# 1 – Summertime Blues – Eddie Cochran

Since we are a classic rock history site, we had to make sure that we ended this list with the real legendary rocker. It doesn’t get any more legendary than Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues.” It also actually feels good to end this list with the 1950s tune. Released in 1958, “Summertime Blues” by Eddie Cochran remains one of the most iconic rock and roll anthems of the 1950s. Written by Cochran and his manager Jerry Capehart, the song was recorded at Gold Star Studios in Hollywood, California. Cochran’s innovative approach to both songwriting and guitar playing helped the track stand out during a time when rock and roll was still in its formative years.

The recording sessions featured Eddie Cochran on vocals and guitar, with Connie ‘Guybo’ Smith on electric bass and Earl Palmer on drums. Cochran’s production incorporated a driving beat, catchy guitar riffs, and a distinctive handclap rhythm, creating a sound that was both rebellious and infectious. The song’s clever use of vocal overdubs and its pioneering guitar techniques showcased Cochran’s technical skill and creativity.

“Summertime Blues” achieved significant chart success, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Cochran’s most successful singles. The song’s lyrics capture the frustrations and challenges of teenage life, with lines like “I’m gonna raise a fuss, I’m gonna raise a holler” resonating with a young audience. The clever narrative voice and relatable themes of wanting freedom but facing responsibilities made it an anthem for the youth of its time.

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