There’s nothing better than lounging in the pool on a beautiful summer’s day, the rays gently warming your back as you sip on a glass of your favourite beverage.
Whether you’re treating yourself to some ‘me-time’, enjoying the sunshine at a pool party with a few of your closest friends, or getting your day’s exercise in, there’s just one simple thing that can make your day even more perfect: a playlist with some of your favourite songs.
Light, breezy and oh-so-addictive, these summer tunes will help you get in the mood for some much-needed relaxation. Whether you like to listen to pop, reggae/ska, or a nightclub dancefloor-filler on your days off, there will be a poolside classic for you!
Here are a few perfect tunes to help you enjoy those blissful summer days.
Motown Magic: Heatwave – Martha & The Vandellas
Upbeat and catchy, Martha & The Vandella’s 1963 hit has had Motown enthusiasts tapping their feet for generations. And as a new wave of fans discover the genre, it’s time to bring back the old classics.
Heatwave was one of the first songs to put its stamp on the Motown genre, with its gospel beat, a touch of jazz, and echoes of doo-wop throughout the track, making it a quintessential addition to any Motown playlist.
This summery number is the perfect complement to any pool party, groovy enough for a good dance, and relaxed enough to sing along to while you float on your lilo or sunbathe on your pool lounger with a drink in hand.
The Retro Pool Workout: Pump Up The Jam – Technotronic
Dedicated to your pool workouts, but prefer a more ‘retro’ feel for your exercise routine?
Pump Up The Jam is a catchy club hit that will take you back to the dance floors of the 90s.
Unlike the predictable drum and bass beats found in gyms across the country, this earworm of a dance classic will keep you focused and get your whole body moving and sweating in the summer sun. This feel-good classic transforms a repetitive workout into a fun and engaging experience – after all, who can keep a straight face with a 90’s cheese hit blasting across their back garden?
Described by critics as ‘highly infectious’ with an ‘irresistible baseline’, this jam will brighten your day with its addictive beats and enthusiasm. And that passion will be infused into your daily workout too… what’s not to love?
The Pool Party: Dance The Night – Dua Lipa
If your pool party is a little lacklustre, Dance The Night from Dua Lipa is the remedy you need!
Featured in the soundtrack of the new Barbie movie, this popular disco-pop hit is sure to get your guests moving with its funky retro beats and catchy lyrics. So why not fill your dance floor with your best friends, pour yourselves a generous glass of sangria, and get moving in the setting summer sun?
Feel-Good Reggae: In The Summertime – Shaggy & Rayvon
Looking for the perfect feel-good track to listen to by the pool? You can’t beat a reggae classic for lifting your mood and boosting your energy levels during the summer slump!
Shaggy and Rayvon’s cover of Mungo Jerry’s 1970s hit is an addictive bop that will get you moving in your sun lounger, bringing a tropical touch to your poolside.
With a catchy tune and reggae drum beats, this sleazy and cheesy hit will make you smile all day. In The Summertime will beat the blues with its infectious energy and relaxed – yet invigorating – atmosphere.
The Club Hit: Wild Ones – Flo Rida & Sia
When your pool party guests have reached their peak, there’s nothing better than a popular club classic to keep the party going. This summery and energising track will transport your guests straight to the shores of Ibiza with a pounding bassline, addictive drops, and simple lyrics, letting your guests sing along to their hearts’ delight.
The DJs in holiday resorts know how to please a crowd, so why not take a leaf out of their book? This holiday club classic is sure to get your guests dancing, whether in the pool or on the dance floor!
Summer Chill: Jamming – Bob Marley & The Wailers
There’s nothing quite like bobbing along on your pool float to the casual beat of a reggae track, and Bob Marley is the master of summertime chill.
With a gentle beat and relaxed, yet powerful guitar melody, Jamming is the perfect addition to any summer chill playlist. Whether you’re by the pool, or listening on your headphones on a beach, this track will immediately put you in a relaxed headspace, with its hypnotic vocals, and light and floaty drumline. Even at nearly 30 years old, this track continues to be timeless, breathing a breath of fresh air into a stiflingly hot day.
Match it with fresh, cool pool water, a sunny day, and your favourite pair of shades, for the ultimate summer chill!

