Skye Crawford, Editor-in-Chief: “Island in the Sun” by Weezer
Besides the fact that it makes me think of one of my fave movies of all time, “Aquamarine,” and makes me want to go play mermaids, ain’t no way you can listen to this song without feeling like you’re sitting on the beach, reading while drinking a silly little bevvie.
Nicole Bharrat, Managing Editor: “Hotel Room Service” by Pitbull
Pitbull in Raleigh. May 19th. Bald caps are ready. ¡Dale!
Jakob Halbur, Managing Editor: “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond
I purely associate this song with July and August baseball (and unfortunately, the Boston Red Sox). It immediately puts me in the mood for crappy stadium nachos while watching my closer blow a two-run lead in the ninth inning.
Matthew Burkhart, Community News Editor: “BRASILIAN SKIES” by Masayoshi Takanaka
You know the guy with the surfboard guitar? Yeah, this is him. Punxsutawney Phil, you can’t tell me what to do, I’m ready for sunny days!
Ally Tennant, University News Editor: “Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes)” by Edison Lighthouse
I have no money, my clothes are kinda funny and my hair is wild, maybe free? Idk spring vibes for sure.
Jackson Davenport, Assistant News Editor: “Babydoll” by Dominic Fike
Very warm, forward-looking and feels like I’m on the beach sipping a Mai-Tai.
Kelsey Bohn, Culture Editor: “Summerboy” by Lady Gaga
When this song comes on, the windows are going down.
Jordan Birkner, Opinion Editor: “Magnets” by Disclosure, featuring Lorde
This has been the song of the summer for 10 years straight. There’s no competition.
Connor VanDerMark, Sports Editor: “Dramatic Girl” by Baby Keem
It’s impossible to be in a bad mood while listening to this song.
Daniel Susann, Assistant Sports Editor: “Thread” by Winyah
A bright melody with soothing yet interesting vocals. Indie but with high-end production and pop potential.
Brennan Weiss, Assistant Sports Editor: “The Boys of Summer” by Don Henley
A song about longing for the summer, perfect for longing for the summer.
Olivia Smith, Copy Desk Chief: “Superstitious” by no na
Girl groups are so back in 2026 and this song proves it! When that beat drops, I truly ascend to a higher plane of consciousness.
Hector Cazares-Medellin, Video Editor: “My 45” by Cuco and Jean Carter
The vibes of this song are immaculate. Just imagine: windows down, cruising down the coast, wind in your hair.
Alex Manuel, Photo Editor: “On & On” by Erykah Badu
The pinnacle of music. Everybody should already know.
Rory Moon, Graphics Editor: “Babe I Just Can’t Stay” by Moneter
These are some very talented musicians that used to live in NC! The classic rock feel of their new single has a warmth to it that reminds me of summer road trips and nostalgia.
Amaya Hush, Design Editor: “CHURCH GIRL” by Beyoncé
Beyoncé talks about what it’s like growing up in a super spiritual household while also wanting freedom from the expectations placed on us “church girls.” The mix of gospel and bounce gives me all the summer vibes! It is perfect for dancing all night or scream-singing at the top of my lungs during a summer sunset.
Rachel New, Social Media Manager: “Cherry Flavoured” by The Neighbourhood
It’s one of my favorite songs and part of an old summertime playlist from high school.
To listen to our song picks, check out our playlist on Spotify.
