Go Erie
Every summer has defining songs. Recounting the best, most memorable ones would be monumentally difficult. Instead, here are a few from each decade, the 1960s through today. You probably have your own favorites and stories to go with them. So send them toshowcase@timesnews.com with a subject of “summer.” I’ll include them in a future Dr. Rock blog post.
1960s
“Summer in the City,” Lovin’ Spoonful (1966). The city sounds, the heated urgency … pop perfection.
“Satisfaction,” Rolling Stones (1965). Indelible, guitar lick, driving rhythm, Mick’s desperate vocals.
“Respect,” Aretha Franklin (1967). What a summer: “Groovin’,” “Light My Fire,” “All You Need Is Love” and this Queen of Soul classic.
1970s
“In the Summertime,” Mungo Jerry (1970). Slinky, on-the-prowl, head-bobber.
“Miss You,” Rolling Stones (1978). Steamy & disco-fueled, also their last No. 1 hit.
“My Sharona,” The Knack (1979). Manic, giddy, power-pop rush.
1980s
“When Doves Cry,” Prince (1984). Stark, pounding classic launched his superstardom.
“Sledgehammer,” Peter Gabriel (1986). Sly and irresistible.
“Roll With It,” Steve Winwood (1988). Joyful throwback to his Spencer Davis Group.
1990s
“Whoomp! (There It Is),” Tag Team (1993). Even if you don’t want to remember it, you do.
“Macarena,” Los Del Rio (1996). See above.
“MMMBop,” Hanson (1997). Guess the ’90s were one guilty pleasure.
2000s
“Hot in Herre,” Nelly (2002). “Let’s take off all our clothes.” Sums up going to the beach. Oh, he didn’t mean that. …
“Crazy in Love.” Beyoncé. (2003). Her infectious coming-out party from Destiny’s Child.
“I Gotta Feeling.” Black Eyed Peas (2009). Surging, pogo-mad, unstoppable.
2010s
With “California Gurls” (2010) and “Last Friday Night,” Katy Perry owns the decade so far.
— Dave Richards