10 Songs Every Black Person Should Have On Their Summer Cookout Playlist

What’s better than a Fresh Prince and Jazzy Jeff joint? The pair catapulted their music careers with this 1991 hit that will set the tone for a summer cookout without fail.

V.I.C.’s “Wobble” has aged so well since it’s 2008 release. The hit appeals to folks across generations. If you want to get the party started, this is the song to play.

This song needs no introduction. As Blavity previously reported, it’s one of those songs that every Black person knows word for word, without fail. It’s impossible not to sing along to the classic, and it’ll give you the chance to see who in your family really has pipes.

The younger attendees may not be acquainted with “Outstanding,” but your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles will be on their feet when this 1982 hit plays. The song’s old-school sound is so easy to groove and sing along to.

You can never have enough group dance songs at a summer cookout, and “Cupid Shuffle” is one you cannot miss. It’s the perfect cookout song to kick off line dancing.

It’s electric!

With one of the best hooks of all time, “Electric Boogie” is a must-have on your summer cookout playlist. It’s another feel-good song that will have cookout attendees of all ages on the dance floor.

Speaking of slapping the floor, if you aren’t doing it when electric sliding to Cameo’s “Candy,” you are sorely missing out. The 1986 hit has everything you love about ’80s music: strong drums, a catchy melody and playful, easy lyrics. Chances are the song will be stuck in your head weeks after the cookout.

Beyoncé breathed new life into this aforementioned cookout staple. Her 2019 rendition of the song feels exciting, fresh and familiar. Remember the “Before I Let Go” challenge that once swept the nation? See if you and your loved ones can still nail the choreography.

The kids will know it from TikTok, and older folks will know it from their childhood. Earth, Wind & Fire’s “September” is a cookout classic. 

Rest in peace to the great Bill Withers, who gifted us with his incredible talent and some of the smoothest vocals on “Lovely Day.” Its hard not to have a lovely day when listening to the song, and it’s a beautiful way to start or end your cookout.