Cookout season is finally in full swing, and the only thing better than the food is the music. Cookout jams should be their own genre — they’ll get you to put that plate to the side and head straight for the makeshift dance floor.
There are so many songs that capture the vibe of a summer cookout, but here are 10 songs to help you create the perfect playlist for a summer cookout.
"Summertime" by The Fresh Prince and DJ Jazzy Jeff
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.
Wobble" by V.I.C.
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.
"Before I Let Go" by Frankie Beverly and Maze
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.
"Outstanding" by The Gap Band
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.
"Cupid Shuffle" by Cupid
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.
"Electric Boogie (The Electric Slide)" by Marcia Griffiths
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.
"Candy" by Cameo
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.
"Before I Let Go" by Beyoncé
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.
"September" by Earth, Wind & Fire
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.
"Lovely Day" by Bill Withers
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.
