Classic Western songs to listen to in July: summer anthems and popular hits

On My MamaVictoria Monét

On My Mama

A message of powerful self-affirmation that stirs your heart without you even realizing it! This is a track by singer-songwriter Victoria Monét from California.

Written “as if speaking words to herself” during the challenging postpartum period, the song overflows with positive energy that boosts listeners’ self-esteem.

Its memorable hook—sampling a 2009 track—and triumphant horns feel great and seem like they could blow away the languor of summer.

Released in June 2023 and included on the acclaimed album Jaguar II, the song became her first top-40 entry on the Billboard Hot 100.

Why not charge up your energy by listening on a summer drive or on a morning when you want to lift your mood?

Sunflower – Spider-Man: Into the Spider-VersePost Malone

Post Malone, Swae Lee – Sunflower (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse)

Post Malone, a new-generation star whose striking full-body tattoos make him stand out not only as a rapper but also across rock and pop, teamed up with rising young rapper Swae Lee to release Sunflower in 2018.

The track is also well-known for being featured on the soundtrack of the animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.

With a contemporary sound that’s more melodic and dreamy pop than hip-hop, it’s easy to enjoy even if you’re not usually into rap.

Be sure to pay attention to the wistful lyrics that liken “sunflowers,” a classic symbol of summer, to “you.”

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Walking On The Milky WayOrchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark – Walking On The Milky Way

This song, with the grand title “Walking on the Milky Way,” is a synth-pop masterpiece released in 1996 by Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark, a leading force in the UK electronic music scene.

As Andy McCluskey himself has called it one of his finest works, it brilliantly fuses an expansive, string-laden sound with elements of baroque pop.

Included on the album Universal, it reached No.

17 on the UK Singles Chart, yet at the time it suffered the misfortune of being rejected by BBC Radio 1 for being “not trendy.” Even so, the performance with a full orchestra on BBC’s Top of the Pops remains legendary.

Wrapped in a cosmic sense of scale and a beautiful melody, it’s the perfect track to listen to while gazing up at the Tanabata night sky.

SUMMER PARADISE feat. Taka from ONE OK ROCKSimple Plan

Simple Plan – SUMMER PARADISE feat. Taka from ONE OK ROCK

An open, summery pop-punk number set against a seaside backdrop has come to life through a collaboration between Canada’s Simple Plan and Taka from Japan’s ONE OK ROCK.

Released first in Japan in March 2013 as a special version of a track from the 2011 album “Get Your Heart On!,” the song charms with a breezy sound that weaves in elements of reggae and ska punk.

Inspired by vocalist Pierre Bouvier’s love of surfing, the track centers on themes of relaxed moments by the ocean and summertime memories—making it a perfect fit for summer drives, beach trips, and festivals.

ShowerBecky G

Becky G – Shower (Official Video)

This is a bright, sun-soaked pop tune released in 2014 by American artist Becky G.

Its fresh, innovative metaphor compares the thrill of falling in love to a shower, paired with a sweet, breezy melody that conveys the purity of young love in a straightforward way.

The song achieved major commercial success, reaching No.

16 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning multi-platinum certification from the RIAA.

It’s perfect for when you want to soak up a summer resort vibe or relive the sweet, bittersweet rush of falling in love.

The refreshing vocals and catchy rhythm also make it ideal for a morning drive or a beach party.