20 Songs to Soundtrack Your Fourth of July Barbecue

Celebrate Independence Day with a genre-crossing playlist that will keep the party going all summer long. From iconic classics to modern hits, this collection is designed to create a fun and breezy atmosphere for your barbecue festivities. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the music take you on a journey of summer vibes.

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1. Lana Del Rey: “Doin’ Time”

Embrace the West Coast spirit with Lana Del Rey’s captivating cover from her 2019 masterpiece “Norman _____ Rockwell.” Experience the laid-back vibe of the L.B.C. as Lana effortlessly transports you to sunny beaches and endless summer days.

2. Sublime: “Badfish”

No barbecue is complete without a dose of Sublime. Immerse yourself in the captivating and buoyant sounds of “Badfish,” an all-time favorite that perfectly captures the essence of this iconic band.

3. Solange: “Binz”

Indulge in two minutes of pure sonic bliss from Solange’s 2019 album “When I Get Home.” “Binz” radiates immaculate vibes, making it the ideal addition to your summer playlist.

4. Mariah Carey: “Honey”

Let Mariah Carey’s sun-kissed summer jam from her 1997 album “Butterfly” infuse your barbecue with infectious energy. “Honey” showcases Mariah’s versatile talent as she embraces a hip-hop-indebted sound, ensuring a festive atmosphere.

5. Len: “Steal My Sunshine”

Relive the ’90s with Len’s unforgettable hit “Steal My Sunshine.” This track, built around a clever sample of Andrea True Connection’s “More, More, More,” will have everyone singing along and reminiscing about the golden era of one-hit wonders.

6. The Breeders: “Saints”

Transport yourself to a carnival of summer delights with The Breeders’ blazing ditty from their classic 1993 album “Last Splash.” As Kim Deal croons, “Summer is ready when you are,” you’ll feel the joy and excitement of the season.

7. Eleanor Friedberger: “Roosevelt Island”

Escape to the leisurely vibes of Roosevelt Island with Eleanor Friedberger’s ode to this underrated New York City gem. Her spoken-word-like delivery, complemented by a funky keyboard lick, creates a unique and captivating listening experience.

8. A Tribe Called Quest: “Can I Kick It?”

Sit back, relax, and let A Tribe Called Quest’s laid-back anthem set the mood for your barbecue. “Can I Kick It?” is the perfect soundtrack for simply kicking it and enjoying the company of friends and family. Forever in our hearts, Phife Dawg’s legacy lives on.

9. Erykah Badu: “Cel U Lar Device”

Experience Erykah Badu’s singular personality as she puts her own spin on Drake’s “Hotline Bling” in this centerpiece from her 2015 mixtape “But You Caint Use My Phone.” The voice mail menu instructions towards the end of the track add a touch of humor to this soulful and groovy tune.

10. Funkadelic: “Can You Get to That”

Unite under the groove of Funkadelic’s timeless masterpiece. “Can You Get to That” reminds us that music transcends boundaries, and its infectious rhythm will keep your guests moving and grooving throughout the festivities.

11. Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers: “American Girl”

Recorded on the Bicentennial itself, Tom Petty’s “American Girl” encapsulates the spirit of the Fourth of July. With its evocative lyrics and poignant delivery, this timeless classic remains personal and anthemic, making it a must-have for your playlist.

12. Bruce Springsteen: “Darlington County”

Sing along to Bruce Springsteen’s irresistible charm with “Darlington County.” As an alternative to the obvious choice, this track from “Born in the U.S.A.” captures the same energy and will have everyone joining in on the infectious sha la la chorus.

13. Luke Combs: “Fast Car”

Bring together multiple generations of barbecue-goers with Luke Combs’s rendition of “Fast Car.” Paying homage to Tracy Chapman’s original, Combs delivers a reverent and heartfelt performance that will resonate with everyone at your gathering.

14. Beyoncé: “Plastic Off the Sofa”

Indulge in a moment of summertime relaxation with Beyoncé’s laid-back and sumptuous track from her 2022 dance-floor odyssey “Renaissance.” Let the smooth sounds wash over you as you enjoy the company of your loved ones.

15. De La Soul: “Me, Myself and I”

Rejoice as De La Soul’s discography finally graces streaming services! Celebrate this Fourth of July with their iconic track “Me, Myself and I.” This classic hip-hop anthem will have everyone moving to the beat and reminiscing about the golden era of the genre.

16. Miley Cyrus: “Party in the U.S.A.”

Defy the challenge and put your hands up to Miley Cyrus’s infectious hit “Party in the U.S.A.” This party anthem captures the spirit of celebration, making it an essential addition to any Fourth of July gathering.

17. Bill Withers: “Lovely Day”

Bask in the sunshine and good vibes with Bill Withers’s timeless classic “Lovely Day.” Its upbeat rhythm and uplifting lyrics will set the perfect mood for your barbecue, spreading joy and happiness to all.

18. SZA ft. Travis Scott: “Love Galore”

Let SZA’s smooth vocals and Travis Scott’s irresistible energy elevate your summer soirée with “Love Galore.” This collaboration is a sultry and captivating addition to your playlist, adding a touch of sensuality to the celebration.

19. Fleetwood Mac: “Go Your Own Way”

Take a journey with Fleetwood Mac’s iconic hit “Go Your Own Way.” Its infectious energy and memorable guitar riffs will have everyone singing along and embracing their independence on this special day.

20. Bob Marley: “Three Little Birds”

Close out your barbecue with the legendary Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds.” This timeless reggae anthem reminds us to stay positive and not worry about a thing, spreading a message of peace and unity.

Summer is ready when you are, so fire up the grill, gather your loved ones, and let this eclectic mix of songs soundtrack your Fourth of July barbecue. Celebrate the spirit of independence and enjoy the festivities with great music and even better company.