CNN Hits The Streets: New Yorkers Reveal Their Favorite Summer Songs

Shawn

3 min read

Post on Sep 02, 2025

4.3

Share

CNN Hits the Streets: New Yorkers Reveal Their Favorite Summer Songs

The Big Apple's soundtrack just got a whole lot hotter! CNN recently took to the streets of New York City to uncover the ultimate summer playlist, asking residents to share their favorite tunes for the season. From classic hits to modern bangers, the results offer a vibrant snapshot of the city's diverse musical tastes and the undeniable power of music to define a season.

The energy was palpable as our team interviewed New Yorkers from all walks of life – artists, students, business professionals, and everyday citizens – each eager to share their personal summer anthems. The responses were as diverse as the city itself, revealing a fascinating mix of genres and eras.

Classic Summer Anthems Reign Supreme

Unsurprisingly, several timeless classics emerged as consistent favorites. Songs like "Summertime" by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, a staple of summer playlists for generations, frequently topped the list. Its breezy melody and nostalgic lyrics perfectly capture the carefree spirit of the season. Other perennial favorites included:

• "Walking on Sunshine" by Katrina & The Waves: This infectiously upbeat track instantly elevates any mood.
• "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond: A guaranteed singalong hit at any summer gathering.
• "Dancing Queen" by ABBA: This disco classic is perfect for those long, hot summer nights.

These songs' enduring popularity speaks to their ability to transcend trends and evoke a sense of universal summer joy. Their inclusion in so many responses highlights the enduring power of nostalgia in shaping our musical preferences.

Modern Hits Making Waves

While classic hits held strong, modern music also featured prominently in New Yorkers' summer playlists. Several artists and tracks consistently popped up, showcasing the city's embrace of contemporary sounds:

• Bad Bunny: The Puerto Rican superstar's infectious reggaeton rhythms were a frequent mention, reflecting the city's growing Latinx population and the global reach of modern music.
• Lizzo: Her empowering anthems and feel-good vibes resonated deeply with many, highlighting the increasing importance of body positivity and self-acceptance in popular culture.
• Harry Styles: His blend of pop and rock continues to dominate the charts, and his presence on many New Yorkers' summer playlists underscores his widespread appeal.

These modern hits demonstrate the ever-evolving nature of summer soundtracks, reflecting current trends and the diverse musical landscape of NYC.

Beyond the Charts: Personal Significance

Beyond the chart-toppers, the interviews revealed the deeply personal connection many New Yorkers have with their summer music. Several interviewees shared stories of how specific songs reminded them of past summers, significant relationships, or cherished memories. This emotional resonance underscores the power of music to shape our experiences and create lasting impressions. For many, their summer playlists are more than just a collection of songs; they’re a curated soundtrack to their lives.

The Ultimate NYC Summer Playlist?

While creating a definitive "ultimate" playlist is impossible, CNN's street interviews provide a fascinating glimpse into the musical heart of New York City during summer. The diverse range of artists and genres highlighted demonstrates the city's vibrant and eclectic musical scene. What's your favorite summer song? Share it with us in the comments below! Let's build the ultimate collaborative NYC summer playlist!

(Note: This article includes relevant keywords such as "Summer songs," "New York City," "CNN," "music," "playlist," and variations thereof, naturally incorporated throughout the text. Internal and external links could be added to relevant articles or artists' pages, depending on the platform's guidelines.)