By Kelly Smyth
As warm weather is coming around the corner, many of you are probably wondering ‘what the song of the summer’ will be. Perhaps another beachy pop song (we see you, Ed Sheeran)? Well, I’m not here to sell you a commercially successful song that will inevitably blast through every radio until you can’t take it anymore. No, this is for you main characters out there who want to feel that bit cooler as you waltz to Drury Street. The following song recommendations are a blend of indie pop, alternative and R&B- ideal for walking through Georgian red-brick streets with the heat of the sun on your face and a thirst for pints. Without further ado, let’s give summer an early welcome.
Hot in NY- Malcolm Todd
Once you hear it once, you won’t be able to stop. Up and coming star Malcolm Tood released this in August of 2023, and I wish I found it sooner. This groovy track is a standout on his exceptional debut album Sweet Boy, which was released in April 2024. With a mix of alternative R&B and a touch of indie pop, it is an addictive sound that just oozes good vibes.
Indecisive- marQ
While some of you are looking forward to a Hot Girl Summer, this one is for the lovers amongst us. Have someone you’d wish would call you back, perhaps someone special? Well, this one is for you. MarQ is an indie artist from Illinois, who combined his indie sound with bedroom pop to create ‘Indecisive’, which was released in 2024. The sound of this loved up single would be reminiscent of Malcolm Todd’s entry on this list but brings its own flavour to the table with its upbeat tune.
Ungodly Hour- Chloe X Halle
Ok, Ok. I know Chloe X Halle aren’t exactly underground. Hell, one of them is The Little Mermaid. Despite the Bailey sisters having rather large profiles, this song is criminally underrated. Named after the 2020 album it came from, Ungodly Hour is smooth, sexy and so replayable it has already made its way into my top 10. The R&B duo’s vocals further elevate this song, with their voices being complimentary in ways that it scratches your brain. This is one for a Hot Girl Walk.
WANNA B- Biking with Francis
Feeling a little jealous lately? You’ll love this. Collaborative group Biking with Francis, comprised by Garrett Sparrow, Max Leonard, and Joshua Raw, bring a delicious R&B sound with this 2023 single. With the song lamenting about jealousy, longing and hating that person’s friends, its relatable in ways some of us don’t want to admit.
Useless- Omar Apollo
Again. I know you’ve probably heard of Omar Apollo. From being Daniel Craig’s onscreen lover in Queer, to being 6 foot 5 (yeah, I know), he’s kind of hard to miss. While tall, dark and handsome, this Mexican-American artist is rightfully best known for his impressive vocals. Another R&B entry on this list, Useless covers the addictive yet frustrating feeling of having someone stuck on your mind. While the lyrics are a little needy, it will leave you feeling undeniably cool.