Summer Jams for Music Therapy
by Maddie Hernandez
Summer songs typically include road trip mixtapes, beach vibes, and karaoke worthy hits. My go to summer jams are a little worn out so I wanted to dive into some equally summery vibes that reach broader audiences for music therapy sessions. Below I’ve got five fun summer songs (and maybe a bonus sixth song. . .) along with intervention ideas.
1. Summer of ‘69 by Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams is starting us strong with a great reminiscence song. You can use this song with older adults as you explore their memories of summer past. The lyric structure provides a great opportunity for songwriting: try substituting their experiences into the lyrics to make it their own.
2. Summertime Sadness by Lana Del Rey
Not all summer days are sunny and bright. Use this song to explore more complex feelings this summer, especially with your teens or young adults who may already know and love Lana Del Rey. Whether they’re having a hard day or dealing with chronic depression, Lana lets them know it’s okay if not every day is perfectly happy. A lyric analysis with this song can explore emotional identification or expression. Consider expanding the verbal processing to include identifying coping skills as well.
3. Busy Like a Bee by Stephanie Leavell
Busy Like a Bee offers an easy opportunity for music and movement with your little folks. The lyrics give cute visuals as well as an opportunity to work on impulse control and one-step directives in a fun way. You could even do a freeze dance style experience if your crowd would benefit from a game with elimination – or everyone can keep buzzing on as they work hard with their little wings.
4. Pontoon by Little Big Town
Little Big Town details steps of a perfect day out on the lake; this provides the perfect opportunity to come up with some leisure skills or bucket list activities for your client’s summer. Sub them in as a lyric rewrite or finalize a copy of the list for clients to check off. Everyone loves a personalized summer anthem – and what a great song to sing on the water this hot July!
5. Let’s Get Loud by Jennifer Lopez
Do you know what we need?An upbeat jam to get everyone’s blood pumping! Use this hit to get your peeps moving, even mirroring your movements. Lead some dance moves, stretches, or client’s goal movements as simple or complex as you want. No matter their age, clients can enjoy some Jenny from the block while they increase their attention and motor skills.
BONUS! 6. Sun is Shining by Bob Marley & The Wailers
Calm reggae tunes provide the perfect opportunity for music and art. Whether it’s drawing what this song inspires or what a perfect summer day looks like, this song is sure to get those creative juices flowing. The lyrics offer many visual opportunities while the instruments inspire groovy shapes and vibes to be illustrated.
Have I opened your mind with some opportunities for you to utilize new songs and experiences this summer? Whether it’s one on one focusing on emotional expression or a group focused on movement, with a range of genres hopefully there is something for everyone!
What are your favorite songs of summer? Drop them in the comments!
