DJ Carl Michaels Presents: 10 Contenders for Song of Summer 2014


“Where’s the song of the summer?!”

That is what I keep hearing from people lately, people who say there just isn’t that one song that’s defining summer 2014.

While I’ll admit the season hasn’t been quite as rife with the arsenal of catchy hits we had last year, there are probably about 30 new “song of summer 2014” contenders I could rattle off for you. I have managed to keep dancefloors full with a variety of under- and above-ground tracks that have become my summer anthems.

I’ve taken a few minutes to list both the pop anthems and some more off-kilter choices that have been moving me. Now take this list and run to the beach, the pool, the nightclub—anywhere you plan to enjoy the rest of your summer. Now you’ve got some great tunes to close out the season.

You can find the playlist on Spotify, or enjoy each track in the videos and playlist after the jump. I’m interested to hear your picks for song of summer 2014. Leave some suggestions in the comment section below. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6WQ2A5K_fHA

“Tens” by J.Lo 

Miss Lo buried this one on the extended version of her new album, but you can’t hide a good voguing anthem from the queens. This is pure diva madness. If you haven’t heard it yet, get ready, Papi …

“Rather Be” by Clean Bandit feat. Jess Glynne 

Clean Bandit brought their brand of symphonic electronic music out of left field this summer with the release of their brilliant new album New Eyes. “Rather Be” is proving a sophisticated player, making waves in a sea of cheap pop tunes.

“Chandelier” by Sia

“Chandelier” is a wrenching and dramatic discussion on alcoholism. Despite her aversion to stardom, Sia has managed to blow up our summer, all on her own terms. It’s about time this hyper-talented songwriter (who penned tunes for Rihanna, Britney Spears, etc) has written a pop song for herself. Watch the video for an emotional rollercoaster.

“Hideaway” by Kiesza

For those who haven’t heard this yet, I’m about to change your life forever. This 25-year-old firecracker has the voice and fire of Teena Marie with an unmistakable old-school house vibe.  “Hideaway” has taken over summer.

“I Got U” by Duke Diamond feat. Jax Jones

This is summertime dance music at it’s very finest. Sensual vocals overtop, sublime 4-over-4 house beats. Watch the video for a glimpse of what summer should be.

“Problem” by Ariana Grande

This one packs swag and whimsy all into a summer anthem for anyone who has ever said good riddance to that person who just causes, um, problems.

“Latch” by Disclosure

You’ve heard this over and over again but never gotten tired of it, and for good reason. Laidback house beats made even more ideal by the angelic voice of Sam Smith. Perfect summer vibes.

“Summer” by Calvin Harris

I charted this one earlier in the season, but it must be mentioned as a song of the summer. Although obvious and a definite “no brainer” for Harris, this track is perfectly excuted EDM that lights up dancefloors every time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Td1q65EuqnU

“Blow” by Beyoncé

While you were obsessing over “Drunk In Love,” this summertime funk jam was taking over my dancefloors. This is Bey at her finest and funkiest.

“Stay High (Habits Remix)” by Tove Lo

Tove Lo is a 26-year-old Swedish pop singer who has emerged from obscurity with this track from her Truth Serum. Tackling addiction and lost love, this one is high-impact pop—both thought provoking and catchy all at once.