11 Songs Perfect For Carefree Summer Relaxation

Summertime is here, which means it's the perfect time to carry on as you were... only sweatier. If you're lucky, though, you might have have time to sit back, relax, and revel in the time-honored tradition of the Song of the Summer — aka, the venerable institution that seeks to uphold the year's jam to end all jams. Even if you spend the summer months doing whatever it you always do without much time to relax or get away, the likely upbeat and carefree summer song can still be deployed any time, any place when you want to a brief shining moment of fun escapism. I'm a firm believer in the idea that summer should be completely different from the rest of the year, and for that reason, constructing the perfect carefree summer playlist is crucial: furthermore, it must be filled with songs ranging from Song of the Summer to happy-go-lucky, and be so catchy that, if your air conditioning breaks and you need a distraction from losing your mind completely, it will save your sweaty soul from a minor nervous breakdown.

However you spend the summer, whether it's hanging out on a beach or trying to find the cold spot on your pillow while you sweat through your sheets, enjoy this scientifically-engineered summer jam playlist perfect for carefree relaxation, maximized for optimum chillage.

Taylor Swift, "Style"

The theme song to your totes casual summer romance — feels not included.

Banks, "Warm Water"

Also known as "the song for making summertime babies."

Nicki Minaj Feat. Beyoncé, "Feeling Myself"

To feel the ultimate experience of relaxation and inner peace that comes when you look hot and you know it, turn this song on.

Ariana Grande, "Love Me Harder"

Keep things interesting with a little Grande action.

Janelle Monae, "Yoga"

For when the world just won't get off your case, and you need some time to unwind.

Selena Gomez, "The Heart Wants What It Wants"

...and what the heart wants is to bask in the summer sounds of Selena Gomez.

Lana Del Rey Vs. Cedric Gervais, "Summertime Sadness" Remix

Eat. Sleep. Rey. Repeat.

Kimbra, "Nobody But You"

For when it's nobody but you and that mimosa (hold the orange juice).

Vitamin C, "Smile"

Is it really summer without a late '90s throwback? No. No it is not.

Maroon 5, "Sugar"

Never let your pride get in the way of you rolling down the windows and FIST-PUMPING IT to Maroon 5. No need to be ashamed, because this song rocks.

FKA Twigs, "Two Weeks"

In case the Banks song didn't do it for you, this is an alternate summertime baby-making song.