The “Song of Summer” is a title that isn’t ever formally given out by a single regulatory body, or even based on hard science. Yet every summer season, everybody knows what it is. Last year, Iggy Azelea’s “Fancy” and Magic’s “Rude” traded off the title. In 2013, Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” and Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” traded the title. They’re the songs that dominate the radio waves, show up in every movie trailer and dig their catchy hooks right into your brain. Trying to pick which track will take that place in advance takes a combination of intuition, sense of cultural pulse and blind goddamn luck. With that in mind, a crack team of Emerald editors (Daniel Bromfield, Craig Wright, and myself) and Nathan Stevens (DJ for KWVA, contributor to Spectrum Culture) have assembled our picks. Load up our 12-song playlist, and wow your friends with your keen sense for pop predictivity.
Chris Berg
Favorite Record – Fall Out Boy

A risky pick, since it hasn’t even been planned as a single. But this brilliantly simple summer love song seems predestined for success.
Don’t Wanna Fight – Alabama Shakes

The world of music criticism has been raving about this group’s latest album non-stop, and the lead single might prove to have serious crossover appeal.
My Type – Saint Motel

A shamelessly jazzy beat underlines crooning vocals and a hook that’ll keep you dancing all night. An instant favorite.
Daniel Bromfield
Fight Song – Rachel Platten

With Sara Bareilles AWOL for the moment, Platten will be here to shout encouragements at you while you drink your coffee.
Worth It – Fifth Harmony

Every summer needs a sax loop, and these X Factor alums honk theirs hard.
Trap Queen – Fetty Wap

This song is at the height of being blasted right now, but I hope this joyous pop-rap confection stays sticky in the summer.
Craig Wright
King Kunta – Kendrick Lamar

By the time you heat the next pop, the funk shall be within you.
English Tongue – Palm Violets

This top-of-your-lungs sing along is the perfect song to end a party on a hot summer night.
Bad Blood – Taylor Swift feat. Kendrick Lamar

The star-studded, explosion filled video has been out for two weeks, and it is quickly closing in on 100 million views on YouTube. The weakest track on “1989” received a major boost with aid from Lamar and skyrocketed to no. 1 on Billboard, marking the albums fourth No. 1 single.
Nathan Stevens 
Make a Scene – Shamir

A bleary eyed ode to blacked-out nights and excessive amounts of debauchery, all laced up in a sleek pop package.
Spark – Until the Ribbon Breaks

These U.K. lads make a throbbing dance floor hit with just enough menace in its DNA to imbue the swooning chorus with a hint of darkness.
Can’t Keep Checking My Phone – Unknown Mortal Orchestra

Breezy psych-rock at it’s most delightful and danceable, equipped with a hazy groove that’s great for a day at the beach or exploring the universe from the comfort your room.