Winter may be coming to its official end in the United States, but it’s still quite chilly in many parts of the country. If you’re stuck in the cold and yearning for warm summer days, don’t despair. We’ve put together this list of songs about California to get some sunshine in your life and instantly boost your mood. Enjoy!
California Dreamin’ – The Mamas and the Papas
This classic song has inspired countless people to head west since it was released in 1965. Put this tune on as a pick-me-up when the weather outside is grey and gloomy, and transport yourself to sunny California.
Californication – Red Hot Chili Peppers
The Red Hot Chili Peppers are one of the most iconic bands from Los Angeles. They have produced many songs about their home state, but ‘Californication’ is one of their most popular, as it describes the reality of life in LA.
The Only Place – Best Coast
If you’re a fan of indie-pop, you have to check out this upbeat song from Best Coast, a female-fronted act from Southern California. This bubbly tune sings the praises of the Golden State, as lead singer/guitarist Bethany Cosentino asks, “Why would you live anywhere else?”
Hotel California – The Eagles
True classic rock fans will recognize this legendary song within moments of its opening notes. ‘Hotel California’ is a fan favorite that often inspires crowd sing-a-longs and evokes feelings of freewheeling nights in the desert.
West Coast – Coconut Records
This song is another indie-rock jam, and it’s an excellent soundtrack addition for any low-key gathering of friends and family. Coconut Records is the solo musical project from actor Jason Schwartzman, and this subdued but groovy song will entrance you with its beautiful melody.
California Girls – The Beach Boys
If you ask the Beach Boys, there’s something special about ladies who hail from California, and this beach pop anthem explains why. The song was released in 1965 and included the infamous lyric, “I wish they all could be California girls.”
San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair) – Scott McKenzie
Psychedelic pop fans will undoubtedly remember ‘San Francisco,’ which was released in 1967 as part of the promotion for the Monterey International Pop Music Festival. The song embodies the counterculture movement of its time and describes a one-of-a-kind city at one of the most important times in its history.
California Gurls – Katy Perry (featuring Snoop Dogg)
Since its release in 2010, ‘California Gurls’ has become a summer anthem and one of Katy Perry’s biggest hits. The song is fun, girly, and poppy and a great way to instantly get the party started.
Heartache On the Dance Floor – Jon Pardi
Don’t worry – we haven’t forgotten about all of the country music fans out there! ‘Heartache On the Dance Floor’ is an irresistible tune from Jon Pardi’s 2016 album ‘California Sunrise,’ which details a night spent in a small-town bar on the West Coast.
Even if you can’t escape the cold weather, this collection of songs can transport you to a sunnier state of mind. For more music-related posts, visit the Melodyful blog.
