Where's the song of the summer hiding?

It follows you everywhere.

The grocery store, the beach, the air-conditioned aisles of a CVS.

I’m talking about the song of the summer. Often, it seems inevitable that there’ll be a song of the summer, like a comic-book movie or a bad sunburn. But we’re midway through summer 2023, and so far, there’s no real clear contender for the number-one spot. If you’re going off Billboard’s Song of The Summer chart maybe it’s “Last Night” by Morgan Wallen.

Or maybe it’s “Karma” from a little artist by the name of Taylor Swift.

Or perhaps the song of the summer is still out there, waiting to make it huge on our TikTok feeds.

"Soundside" rounded up a couple local music experts to weigh in on where the song of the summer is hiding, and offer some suggestions on what to add to your summer playlist.

"Free Yourself" – Jessie Ware

The disco-house track by English singer-songwriter Jessie Ware is a favorite of Bekah Flynn, publicity and international promotions manager and A&R for Sub Pop Records.

"It's a car bop, it's a house bop," Flynn said. "It just makes me happy."

"Clemency" – naavi

If you're looking to check out a local band, KEXP DJ Miss Ashley recommends taking a listen to the indie-pop duo naavi.

Ashley says the track is the perfect "super chill" summer vibe song for laid back evenings.

"Depression" - SassyBlack

Summer can be a time to let our troubles melt away, but let's be honest, the heat and sunshine can only mask so much.

Singer, songwriter, composer, and producer SassyBlack's song "Depression" channels the contradictions of the season.

"It's not as sad as it sounds, but it's very upbeat. It's such a vibe, it's a bounce. And if you are working through depression, it's perfect, " Sassy said. "You could just know that you'll be okay on the other side."

Listen to the full segment above