This summer, pop music fans say they are missing the energy and excitement they felt last year. By this time in 2024, listeners had several big songs to rally around. Hits like Shaboozey’s “A Bar Song (Tipsy),” Sabrina Carpenter’s “Espresso,” and Charli XCX’s album “Brat” helped define last summer’s soundtrack.
Halfway through 2025, most songs at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 are actually left over from last year. Few new hits are making a big impact. The current No. 1 song, Alex Warren’s “Ordinary,” lacks the fun and creativity often expected from a summer anthem, according to fans and critics. Many say the track is safe and forgettable, and it only stays on top because there’s little competition.
Other new songs, like Morgan Wallen’s “What I Want” and Sabrina Carpenter’s “Manchild,” reached No. 1 for just one week before dropping. Music executive Kayode Badmus-Wellington calls this the “hangover effect,” saying that after last year’s blockbuster albums and new artists, fans now feel less excited. Many top pop stars have already released their best material, and newer acts haven’t filled the gap yet with confident, shared anthems.
Changes in the world also play a part. Fans remember last year’s more hopeful vibe, with joyful tours and cultural moments. Now, people face more political stress and feel distracted and anxious. This means audiences are staying with their favorite old songs instead of searching for new ones.
Summer has always been known for big, group-friendly pop hits. But so far in 2025, listeners agree—there isn’t a clear “song of the summer.” Fans are still waiting for a tune that brings everyone together.
Stay tuned to see if a breakout hit can bring the summer energy back to pop music before the season is over.
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