Entertainment

These Songs Could Rule Summer 2016

by Kristie Rohwedder

In 2013, it was “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell. In '14, Iggy Azalea and Charli XCX secured their spot at the top with “Fancy.” And just one year ago, Omi ruled the season with “Cheerleader.” I am, but of course, referring to The Song Of The Summer. An immense honor bestowed upon only the sunniest, summeriest, catchiest, and poppiest of pop records. So, what ditty is poised to take the throne this year? *Checks calendar.* Oh, right. It isn't summertime. It's only April. The Song Of Summer 2k16 has yet to be declared.

But have we heard it yet? Has The Song Of Summer 2k16 graced our earbuds without our realizing it?

Maybe.

Sure, some to-be-released banger of a track could saunter out onto the airwaves and snatch the crown without batting an eyelash (lookin' at you, Queen Britney Spears), but for all we know, the tune of the season could already be out, waiting for the world to appreciate it for the summer anthem that it is.

Do I have any guesses? Oh, do I ever. Here are some jams that boast major Song Of Summer 2k16 potential:

1. “Work From Home” By Fifth Harmony Featuring Ty Dolla $ign

When you have a song this hot, who needs a barbecue?

2. “If It Ain’t Love” By Jason Derulo

Don't mind me as I spend the rest of the afternoon dancing at my desk to this record.

3. “Work” By Rihanna Featuring Drake

"Work" has ruled the Billboard Hot 100 for the past eight weeks, and it wouldn't surprise me if it remained at No. 1 for 20 more. "Work" is that good.

4. “No Broken Hearts” By Bebe Rexha Featuring Nicki Minaj

OK, we're only four tunes in, and I'm mad summer isn't here already.

5. “Boys & Girls” By will.i.am Featuring Pia Mia

Whether or not it's the top song of the season, this better be all over the radio this summer. I want to hear it every time I get in my car, every time I go to the mall, every time I go to a baseball game. I just like it that much.

6. “Cheap Thrills” By Sia

Sia released this bright and buoyant track in the dead of winter, and the time has come for "Cheap Thrills" to bloom like the summer flower that it is.

7. “Be Alright” By Ariana Grande

Oh, what's this? Yet another banger from Ari G.? How fortunate are we!

8. “Boy Problems” By Carly Rae Jepsen

As is wont to happen every time I listen to a Carly Rae Jepsen record, I feel my mood lift when I play "Boy Problems."

9. “Wild Things” By Alessia Cara

First "Here," now "Wild Things"? Damn, Alessia Cara. Back at it again with the white hot jams.

10. "Girls Like" By Tinie Tempah Featuring Zara Larsson

I am living for this one. And anyone who isn't into "Girls Like"? The door is thattaway.

11. "Champagne Problems" By Nick Jonas

Did Nick partyrock too hard?

12. "No Money" By Galantis

Finally, here's a scorcher of an EDM tune to bring us home.

And what happens if zero of the above gemstones is dubbed The Song Of Summer 2k16? Well, hey! This guessing won't be for naught— At the very least, we got a solid playlist out of it.