How to Pick the Song of the Summer: Betting on the Season’s Hits

Summer 2025 seems a long way off, but it’s never too early to start placing bets on what will be the defining song of the season. The “song of the summer” is that irresistible, catchy tune that seems to be everywhere you go from beach parties to barbecues. While no one can predict the future, there are some key factors to consider when speculating on the next big summer anthem.

Look at Upcoming Album Releases

One of the best indicators for a potential summer smash is to look at the albums slated for release in the spring and early summer. Big names like Beyonce, Drake, Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran often put out new music just in time to dominate the warmer months. Scan the release calendars and listen to any advanced singles from major pop artists dropping albums in April, May or June. This strategy tipped off listeners to past summer hits like “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen and “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift.

Follow the Festival Scene

The Coachella, Lollapalooza and Governor’s Ball circuits are great predictors of songs that will get stuck in your head at barbecues and beach parties. Pay attention to unreleased tracks that artists debut live at these major festivals, as well as any high-profile collaborations between big names that get crowds excited. For example, not long after Calvin Harris brought Rihanna onstage at Coachella, they released another collab ‘This is What You Came For’.

Listen to Up-and-Coming Genre Stars

While established acts have an advantage, sometimes newcomers can dominate the summer charts. Keep an eye on rising stars in genres like pop, rap, R&B, country and EDM that could have a breakthrough hit in time for summer. In 2012, Gotye came out of left field with “Somebody That I Used to Know” to be that year’s defining summer song. You never know who will release the next inescapable summer anthem so don’t rule out fresh faces.

Pay Attention to Ad Campaigns

Big brands like Target, Nissan and Coca-Cola attempt to align their summer ad campaigns with upbeat pop songs. If you start hearing a new, infectious song in commercials in April and May, there’s a good chance record labels are positioning it to be the song of the summer. For example, Calvin Harris’ “Feel So Close” and “Summer” were featured in advertising campaigns shortly before dominating airplay in 2012 and 2014 respectively.

Consider Past Summers’ Trends

While every summer has its own distinct sound, studying trajectories from previous years can be informative. Recent summer chart-toppers have alternated between EDM-pop anthems and upbeat retro throwbacks. If recent summers followed a heavy EDM trend, you may see more nostalgic, funky sounds start to emerge. Looking at patterns over the last 5-10 summertime hits can help pinpoint what musical direction the next one may take.

Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, the song of the summer often comes down to that undeniable mix of addictive melodies, catchy lyrics, and danceable beats. While insider factors like album releases and ad deals are helpful clues, trust your gut when a new song immediately sticks in your head. If a track screams summer smash the first time you hear it, chances are it will dominate radio, streaming and parties in the coming months.

Don’t Forget About Dark Horses

Often the song of the summer comes out of left field from an unexpected artist. Keep an eye out for standout album tracks and non-single releases that start gaining traction through word of mouth. Dark horse songs may not have big promotional campaigns but can quickly catch fire through social media shares and streaming playlists. An off-the-radar gem could rise to summer smash status through genuine listener love.

Make Predictions Early

The hunt for the song of the summer starts months before peak beach season. New releases in late winter and early spring have a chance to build momentum through April and May. Don’t wait until June to make your picks – start tracking standout new songs as early as February and March. An early head start increases your odds of accurately prophesying the summer’s anthem.

The search for the 2025 song of the summer will be a fun ride full of new hits waiting to be discovered. With the right mix of research, intuition and luck, you may just predict the next irresistible earworm that takes over the warmer months. So, keep those headphones ready and let the music play as the hunt for the 2025 summer anthem kicks off!