by Dua Lipa has quickly established herself as one of pop music’s most exciting new artists. Over the course of two acclaimed albums, Dua Lipa has proven herself a master of crafting infectious pop anthems that are perfect for any summer playlist. With her disco-inspired sound, empowering lyrics, and knack for collaborations, Dua Lipa’s discography is a goldmine for capturing that warm-weather feeling. Here is a guide to building the ultimate Dua Lipa summer soundtrack.
Energy Boosters
No summer playlist is complete without some high-energy tracks to get your mood and energy up. Dua Lipa delivers plenty of options here to get your body moving on those sunny days. “Don’t Start Now” is the quintessential confidence anthem, with its pulsing beat and lyrics about leaving behind negativity and drama. The song’s bassline and Dua’s empowering vocals make it the ultimate pick-me-up. For an even more upbeat dance vibe, look no further than “Physical.” Inspired by ‘80s pop and funk, “Physical” is a disco-inspired delight, with its funky groove and lyrics celebrating sensuality. It’s nearly impossible not to start dancing along whenever this song comes on.
Another essential energy booster is “New Rules,” the breakthrough hit off Dua Lipa’s self-titled debut. With its infectious pop groove and catchy lyrics advising how to get over an ex, “New Rules” will have you singing and dancing along in no time. Its danceable beat and empowering message make it the perfect song for boosting your mood. Rounding out the energy boosters section is Dua Lipa’s collaboration with Blackpink, “Electricity.” This high-octane track blends Dua’s pop sensibilities with Blackpink’s signature girl-power style. With its pulsing beat and anthemic chorus, “Electricity” is guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping on even the hottest summer days.
Road Trip Essentials
No summer soundtrack is complete without the right songs to enjoy while cruising down the highway with the windows down. Dua Lipa delivers plenty of options perfect for any road trips. “Cool” is the quintessential breezy summer jam, with its laidback groove and lyrics about embracing your individuality. Its mellow yet upbeat vibe makes it ideal background music while cruising with friends. For a more powerful pop ballad to sing along to at the top of your lungs, look no further than “Break My Heart.” With its emotional lyrics and anthemic chorus, “Break My Heart” is the perfect song to belt out when you need an emotional release.
Another great road trip song is “Be Right There,” off Dua’s Future Nostalgia album. With its feel-good melody and lyrics about being present for your loved ones, “Be Right There” puts you in a cheerful, carefree mood. And no summer road trip playlist is complete without a classic party anthem like “One Kiss.” Dua Lipa’s collaboration with Calvin Harris perfectly captures that euphoric summer festival feeling, with its pulsing beat and lyrics celebrating love and good vibes. With melodic songs like these in your playlist, any drive is sure to pass by in no time.
Chill by the Pool
Of course, no summer soundtrack is complete without the perfect songs for relaxing by the pool or at the beach. For dreamy, sun-kissed vibes, look no further than “Levitating.” With its hypnotic synth melody and lyrics about floating on air in love, “Levitating” puts you in a blissful, chilled-out state of mind. For an even more laidback vibe, cue up “IDGAF.” With its mellow yet confident lyrics and relaxed groove, “IDGAF” is the ideal song for soaking up the sun.
Another standout chill song is Dua’s collaboration with Miguel, “Lost in Your Light.” Its smooth R&B-inspired sound and romantic lyrics are perfect for relaxing with a good book. And for a more rootsy, country-inspired summer jam, check out “We Are Good” featuring Midland. With its upbeat yet mellow melody and message of self-love, “We Are Good” puts you in a cheerful, carefree mood ideal for lounging poolside. These dreamy, feel-good songs from Dua Lipa make the perfect soundtrack for lazy summer afternoons.
Beachside Bliss
Of course, no summer soundtrack is complete without the ideal songs for beachside relaxation. For calming, atmospheric vibes ideal for seaside reflection, look no further than “Swan Song.” With its ambient soundscape and melancholy lyrics, “Swan Song” puts you in a serene, contemplative mood. Another melancholy yet beautiful song perfect for beach walks is “Homesick.” Its elegant piano melody and emotional lyrics about missing loved ones strike the perfect balance of sadness and beauty.
Rounding out the beachside section is Dua’s collaboration with Whethan, “High.” With its chilled electronic soundscape and dreamy lyrics, “High” evokes that perfect sunset feeling. Its mellow yet mesmerizing qualities make it ideal background music for watching the sun dip below the waves. These atmospheric, emotional songs from Dua Lipa capture all the serenity and introspection of beachside relaxation.
Adding Variety
To keep the playlist feeling fresh over multiple listens, it’s important to add some variety beyond Dua Lipa’s own discography. A great way to do this is by including some classic summer throwback hits that complement her style. One essential throwback is “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves. With its upbeat melody and lyrics celebrating positivity, “Walking on Sunshine” embodies the cheerful summer spirit.
Another feel-good ‘80s hit that fits Dua Lipa’s style is “I’ll Stand By You” by The Pretenders. Its emotional lyrics and anthemic melody are perfect for belting out on long summer nights. And no summer playlist is complete without the ultimate party anthem “Dancing Queen” by ABBA. With its euphoric sound and lyrics celebrating good times with friends, “Dancing Queen” captures the joyous, carefree spirit of summer. These throwback gems are sure to transport you back to summer memories past.
To keep things fresh, Dua Lipa’s collaborations are also great options for variety. The reggae-pop blend of “No Lie” featuring Sean Paul brings island vibes, while “Kiss and Make Up” with BLACKPINK amps up the girl-power energy. And for a festival-ready track, check out “Scared to Be Lonely” featuring Martin Garrix. Its pulsing beat and anthemic drop are perfect for dancing under the stars. These collaborations showcase Dua Lipa shining with other big-name artists.
Tailoring to Your Summer
This playlist acts as a starting point, with over 35 songs spanning all moods and vibes. From here, you can tailor the selection to best suit your specific summer plans – whether pool parties with friends, beach bonfires, road trips, or just relaxing at home. Move the energy boosters to the top for workout playlists. Focus on road trip songs for long drives. Feature the chill tracks if you’ll be lounging most of break.
You can also check out Dua Lipa’s own summer playlist “Summer on the Road” on Apple Music for additional inspiration. With upbeat bops, emotional ballads, dreamy vibes and everything in between, Dua Lipa’s discography offers endless options for capturing that perfect summer feeling. Now it’s time to hit play and let the good times roll all season long!
