It doesn’t feel like summer is ending, but it is. As August finally descends upon us, one can’t help but reflect on the summer of 2022. A lot has changed in the world over these past few months, but we can all agree on the music.
Regardless of which genre of music you prefer, it can only be assumed that it’s getting you through. So many songs have gotten us through the rough times of the season and helped us celebrate the good. That being said, we’ve decided to compile a list of some of our favorite summer hits that we’ve had on repeat. Check them out below.
1. "Good Love" by City Girls feat. Usher
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The City Girls and Usher have created a new hit while sampling an old one. True music lovers immediately recognized the vintage classic “Freak It” on this reimagined track. Usher’s soulful crooning and the City Girls’ fierce bars make the perfect combination that we didn’t know we needed — until now.
2. "Booty" by Saucy Santana feat. Latto
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Saucy Santana‘s rise as an artist has been meteoric, and from the looks of it, he isn’t slowing down anytime soon. With the help of Latto, the Florida native sampled The Chi-Lites’ “Are You My Woman? (Tell Me So)” to create a body-positive anthem about loving one’s curves. Like the true creative that he is, Saucy Santana also paid homage to Beyoncé (who also sampled the aforementioned group for “Crazy in Love”) in the music video by wearing the iconic white tank top and denim shorts combo she wore.
3. "Surprise" by Chlöe Bailey
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Chlöe‘s single may be titled “Surprise,” but the artist’s insane amount of talent is unsurprising. This sensual hit sees Miss Bailey bartering with a romantic interest about how good of a partner she’ll be, should she be afforded the same treatment. We love a queen who demands reciprocity!
4. "Spring, Summer" by Lebra Jolie
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Whether or not Sheree Whitfield decides to release She By Sheree this year isn’t certain. What is certain, however, is that the legacy of the clothing brand and Sheree herself will be kept alive by Lebra Jolie.
5. "Baby Boo" by Muni Long & Saweetie
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When Muni Long captivated us with “Hrs & Hrs,” we should’ve known that she’d continue to captivate us down the road. Teaming up with Saweetie for “Baby Boo,” the duo unleashes some serious musical talent over a playful beat. The changes in flow and artistic freedom make for a fun bop.
6. "Mind Yo Business" by Lakeyah feat. Latto
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If you constantly deal with haters who are always in your business, tell them to listen to this song. Two of the dopest rappers came together to deliver some fiery bars about why naysayers need to stay in their lane. But, while doing so, they also proved why they’re poised to continue reigning over rap.
7. "Frozen" by Lil Baby
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Lil Baby‘s jewelry collection is undoubtedly out of our tax brackets, but one can dream. One can also jam as this song is a certified banger that positions Lil Baby as one of the leading voices of this generation of rappers.
8. "Break My Soul" by Beyoncé
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Beyoncé has done it again with “Break My Soul.” As many of us find ourselves in jobs and other situations that drain all we have, it’s essential not to let these things break your soul. The Houston native also took the opportunity to experiment with house music, and it’s giving what it’s supposed to give. Flawless!
Shoutout to all of these artists and their collaborators for getting us through such an eventful summer. Per usual, Black creativity is the gift that keeps on giving. Which one is your favorite?