10 Songs Made for a Pool Party

There are some songs that only need a few seconds to transport you somewhere else. Maybe it’s a sunny backyard, a pool float drifting through the water, a cold drink in your hand, or a summer road trip with the windows down.

A great pool party playlist needs the perfect mix of fun, nostalgia, sing-along moments, and songs that make everyone want to jump in the water. From iconic ‘80s classics to early 2000s pop anthems, these songs have become the soundtrack to summer memories.

These are some of the most requested songs from our Pool Party Playlist theme, featuring tracks that listeners think belong beside the pool, in the sunshine, and turned up loud.

1. Vanilla Ice, “Ice Ice Baby” (1990)

Few songs bring instant energy quite like Vanilla Ice’s “Ice Ice Baby.” Released in 1990, this hip-hop classic became the first rap single to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100. With its unforgettable bassline and catchy chorus, it’s the kind of song that gets everyone dancing, whether they’re in the pool or standing around the BBQ.

2. Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch, “Good Vibrations” (1991)

Before becoming a Hollywood superstar, Mark Wahlberg was known as Marky Mark, fronting the group Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. “Good Vibrations,” released in 1991, is pure early ‘90s summer energy. With its upbeat rhythm and feel-good message, it’s a song that perfectly captures carefree days spent outside with friends.

3. Sisqó, “Thong Song” (1999)

Love it or laugh at it, Sisqó’s “Thong Song” is one of those late ‘90s party songs that people still know every word to. Released in 1999, the track became a massive summer hit thanks to its catchy hook, playful lyrics, and unforgettable music video. It remains a staple for anyone building a nostalgic party playlist.

4. Katy Perry, “California Gurls” (2010)

If there was ever a song designed for a pool party, it might be Katy Perry’s “California Gurls.” Released in 2010, this colourful pop anthem celebrates sunshine, beaches, and the carefree California lifestyle. The candy-coated music video and upbeat sound helped make it one of the biggest summer songs of the decade.

5. Mungo Jerry, “In The Summertime” (1970)

Sometimes the perfect summer song is a classic. Mungo Jerry’s “In The Summertime” was released in 1970 and became an international hit with its laid-back melody and celebration of warm weather freedom. It’s the musical equivalent of kicking back in a lawn chair and enjoying a long summer afternoon.

6. Kid Rock, “All Summer Long” (2008)

Kid Rock’s “All Summer Long” blends rock, country, and nostalgia into one big summer anthem. Released in 2008, the song captures the feeling of looking back on unforgettable summer memories, complete with references to lake days, friends, and simpler times. It’s a perfect fit for a backyard pool party or cottage weekend playlist.

7. The Beach Boys, “Kokomo” (1988)

No pool party playlist would be complete without a little tropical escape. The Beach Boys’ “Kokomo,” released in 1988, takes listeners straight to a beachside paradise with its island-inspired sound. The song became a major comeback hit for the legendary group and remains a vacation favourite decades later.

8. Van Halen, “Jump” (1984)

A pool party needs a song that gets everyone moving, and Van Halen’s “Jump” delivers exactly that. Released in 1984, the rock anthem features one of the most recognizable keyboard riffs in music history. Whether it’s played during a cannonball competition or a backyard dance party, this song brings instant excitement.

9. The Belle Stars, “Iko Iko” (1982)

The Belle Stars’ version of “Iko Iko,” released in 1982, brought new life to a traditional New Orleans song originally recorded decades earlier. With its infectious rhythm and fun, playful energy, it has become a favourite for celebrations, parties, and any playlist that needs a little extra summer spirit.

10. Simple Plan, “Summer Paradise” (2011)

Simple Plan teamed up with Sean Paul for “Summer Paradise” in 2011, creating a nostalgic pop-rock anthem all about escaping to a perfect summer getaway. With lyrics about sunshine, beaches, and unforgettable memories, it’s a song that feels like a vacation packed into three minutes.