10 Songs For Your Spring Break Playlist

Many students are making their pilgrimages for a week of fun in the sun and memorable mistakes. For those less inclined to earn their first mugshot, a good staycation is just what the doctor ordered to get through those binge-worthy shows while lounging about.

Regardless of your plans, no vacation is complete without the proper soundtrack to set the mood and get you pumped for the week ahead. From The Weeknd to DNCE, here's the perfect soundtrack to get you ready for spring break.


Justin Timberlake – "Can’t Stop The Feeling"
It’s in the air, can you feel it? For the next few days you’re free, and Justin Timberlake is here to lift your spirits and get you dancing. He’s got that sunshine in his pocket and that good soul in his feet, and all he wants is for you to catch on to his good mood. The good news is you can do this from the comfort of your own home. It's time to open the blinds, throw on your comfortable sweats, and dance around a little. Once song begins, there’s definitely no stopping the feeling.


The Weekend – “Blinding Lights”
The Weeknd makes music for those who live life like it’s spring break all year. And although this song is about heartbreak, it's still a great party anthem. With cuffing season over, many young singles are converging on the beach to forget their heartbreak. With lyrics like, “I’m blinded by the lights / No I can’t sleep without your touch,” it’s the perfect excuse to run away for a few hours with that cutie at the bar.


Zayn and Taylor Swift – "I Don’t Wanna Live Forever"
Whatever you do, try not to fall in love while you’re on vacation. Things might start out well, but by the end of it, you’ll become the love-drunk Taylor Swift to Zayn’s slow and sexy falsetto. With lyrics like “Now I'm in a cab / I tell 'em where your place is / What is happening to me,” you can’t say you weren’t warned. Besides, the last thing you’d want to do is spend your time lurking around the halls of your crush’s hotel ... right?


Beyoncé – "Yoncé"
She sneezed on the beat and the beat got sicker, but that’s because she’s Beyoncé and she possesses magical abilities that no other human being is capable of. If you’re feeling a bit under the weather or just plain hungover, then Queen Bey is here to cure you of your ailments. Take a cue from her and have fun, but take it easy. Sometimes less is more than enough — even Yoncé is okay with being a wallflower every once in a while.


Major Lazer ft. Justin Bieber, MØ – "Cold Water"
Major Lazer is in the business of making songs that get people dancing, and their collaboration "Cold Water" with Justin Bieber and MØ is no exception. Despite Bieber's bubblegum past, he's grown up a lot, and it shows in his music. Wherever you are, it's a great song to unwind and relax to. Don't be surprised if you find yourself humming and swaying by the second verse.


Rae Sremmurd – "Black Beatles"
No matter how hard you try, there’s no escaping Rae Sremmurd’s “Black Beatles.” The hip-hop duo dominated the world with this hit, and it’ll likely take over your vacation as well. It’s highly likely that someone will try to get one last Mannequin Challenge in, not realizing that 2016 is long gone, but that’s okay. Be a good sport, hold still for close to 30 seconds before being allowed to resume your dancing, then rest assured knowing that you can point yourself out in the viral video clip to your grandchildren someday.


DNCE – "Cake By The Ocean"
Finally having the chance to talk to someone you’ve been pining for is great, but let's be honest, the concept of enjoying dessert while sitting oceanside is way more appealing. Sadly, the oldest Jonas brother is probably just playing with metaphors and not actually talking about consuming delicious cake while taking in the wonders of paradise.


Jidenna ft. Kendrick Lamar – "Classic Man (Remix)"
There hasn’t been this much swagger since the days of Jersey Shore, but Jidenna is here to represent for the guys and remind them of the importance of high self-esteem and smart fashion choices. It’s like the modern take on the Situation and Pauly D’s “It’s T-shirt time” tune before they went out every night, but the sequined Affliction clothes and JWoww have been swapped out for button-down shirts and Kendrick Lamar. Much better.


Lizzo – "Good As Hell"
Isn’t feeling good about yourself the point of spring break? You spend hours making sure that every outfit, swimsuit, and hair is laid just right before you take off on your tropical destination so you and your crew can strut your stuff proudly. So what if other people make fun of you. You’re doing your very best.


Drake – "Hotline Bling"
No song is more appropriate for rounding out the end of spring break than Drake’s “Hotline Bling.” Not only do those cool, island instrumentals give off those #TakeMeBack vibes, but for those who returned to real life hoping to hear from that special someone you met, only to be met with radio silence, Drizzy knows all too well what you’re going through. After all, they don’t call him Sad Drake for nothing. Try not to lose hope — maybe that hotline will eventually bling.

Editor's note: This piece originally ran in 2017 and has been updated.