The Quest for the Song of the Summer: A Deep Dive into 2025’s Musical Contenders

Every summer, a few songs emerge as the unofficial "Song of the Summer," capturing the essence of the season and dominating playlists, car radios, and TikTok feeds. In a recent episode of NPR’s Pop Culture Happy Hour, hosts Aisha Harris and Stephen Thompson explored the contenders for the coveted title in 2025, dissecting the musical landscape and the trends shaping this year’s offerings.

The Heavyweight Contender: "Ordinary" by Alex Warren

Leading the charge is Alex Warren’s "Ordinary," a song that has dominated the Billboard charts for weeks. Thompson describes it as a meticulously crafted piece designed to appeal to a broad audience, blending elements reminiscent of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons with a gospel-like choir. The song’s emotional weight and sweet visuals—featuring Warren and his wife—have made it a staple at weddings and social gatherings. However, Harris expresses her skepticism, labeling the song as "inoffensive" and bordering on bland, reflecting a trend in pop music that leans heavily into earnestness.

The Quirky Contender: "Mystical Magical" by Benson Boone

Benson Boone’s "Mystical Magical" enters the conversation as a playful, if not slightly absurd, contender. With lyrics that evoke a whimsical vibe, the song has garnered attention for its catchy hooks and Boone’s earnest delivery. Thompson notes Boone’s "try-hard" quality, which adds a layer of charm to his music. While "Mystical Magical" may not have the same staying power as "Ordinary," it captures the fun, carefree spirit of summer, making it a potential dance floor favorite.

The Country Influence: Morgan Wallen’s "What I Want"

Morgan Wallen continues to be a significant player in the summer music scene, with several tracks from his album I’m the Problem vying for attention. "What I Want," featuring Tate McRae, stands out as a quintessential summer anthem. Wallen’s ability to blend country with pop sensibilities has kept him in the conversation for multiple summers, and this year is no exception. His songs resonate with a wide audience, making them likely candidates for summer playlists.

The Throwback Vibe: Ravyn Lenae’s "Love Me Not"

Ravyn Lenae’s "Love Me Not" brings a nostalgic flair to the mix, reminiscent of early 2000s R&B. Harris and Thompson both note its throwback quality, drawing comparisons to artists like Duffy and Amy Winehouse. The song’s organic rise on the charts reflects a growing appreciation for authentic, soulful music, making it a refreshing addition to the summer lineup.

The Dance Floor Favorite: "Shake it to the Max—Fly" Remix

The remix of "Shake it to the Max—Fly," featuring Molly, Silent Addy, Skillibeng, and Shenseea, is poised to be the ultimate summer party anthem. Its infectious beat and danceable rhythm make it a perfect fit for summer gatherings. Thompson highlights the international collaboration, showcasing the growing influence of global music trends in mainstream pop.

The Return of Sabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter makes her mark again with "Manchild," which debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100. While it may not have the same omnipresence as her hits from the previous summer, Carpenter’s playful lyrics and catchy melodies keep her in the conversation. The song’s humorous take on relationships aligns with her established brand, making it a fun addition to the summer playlist.

The K-Pop Phenomenon: KPop Demon Hunters

The Netflix hit KPop Demon Hunters has also contributed to the summer music landscape, with tracks from its fictional bands, Huntr/x and Saja Boys, making waves on the charts. Thompson notes the unique appeal of these songs, which resonate both as standalone tracks and within the context of the film. The grassroots success of the soundtrack highlights a shift in how music can gain traction in today’s digital landscape.

The TikTok Sensation: PinkPantheress’s "Illegal"

PinkPantheress’s "Illegal" is another contender that has captured attention, particularly on TikTok. With its catchy hooks and short runtime, the song is designed for the fast-paced nature of social media. Thompson points out that PinkPantheress’s return signals a resurgence in her popularity, making her a significant player in the summer music conversation.

The Veteran: Justin Bieber’s "Daisies"

Finally, Justin Bieber’s "Daisies" emerges as a late contender, showcasing his evolution as an artist. The song’s catchy guitar riffs and relatable lyrics position it well within the summer music landscape. Harris appreciates Bieber’s growth and the authenticity of his latest work, suggesting that it could have a lasting impact as the summer progresses.

The Emerging Artist: Lola Young

Lola Young’s "One Thing" is another track to watch, as it has been steadily climbing the charts. With a modern twist on retro influences, Young’s charisma and talent could propel her into the upper echelons of summer hits if the timing aligns.

As the summer unfolds, the competition for the title of "Song of the Summer" remains fierce. Each contender brings its unique flavor to the mix, reflecting the diverse musical landscape of 2025. Whether through catchy hooks, nostalgic vibes, or danceable rhythms, these songs are poised to define the soundtrack of the season.