By Mark Linsdell
The weather in the UK has recently been terrible.
In fact, it’s been the worst June since records began. Instead of us being outside in pub gardens enjoying the euros or being laid out in the biggest patch of grass our hay fever will allow, we’ve been cooped up with Adrian Chiles, and a growing feeling of hatred.
However, fear not, the pendulum of Britain’s mad weather is surely set to swing to sun soon. Make sure you’re ready for those patches of grass with Platform’s top 5 summer sizzlers.
5) Jurassic 5- Concrete Schoolyard
There has to be one feel good nineties rap song in this collection and how easy it would be to go with Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince? Sorry Big Willie; it’s got to be Jurassic 5. The looping piano riff with the old school hip hop beat in the background just sounds like summer. Released in 1998, the song only made number 35 in the UK chart, but has since gained huge cult status in the hip hop world. This summer tune is a great lesson for Lil Wayne in flow and is the perfect accompaniment to a BBQ.
4) Baz Luhrmann- Everyone’s Free (To Wear Sunscreen)
Film maker turned music producer Baz Luhrmann scored a number 1 in 1999 hit with this great public service announcement turned single. The message in the title is great advice for the summer months but the spoken word lyrics are sweating with inspiration and life lessons. The main factors that make this a great summer song though is the cheesy grin and great skin it can give you.
3) The Beach Boys- Surfin’ USA
This song is now 49 years old but it is still arguably the best beach song there is. The surf rock made by the Beach Boys should accompany any excursions to Newquay or day trips to Brighton. Brian Wilson and Co remind us that we don’t just have to lounge in the sun; we can also hit the limited waves the UK has to offer.
2) LEN- Steal My Sunshine
There is surely no greater one hit wonder than 90’s LEN. After releasing this cracking summer anthem they disappeared into pound shop obscurity. However, they left one single that is as essential to enjoying the sun as good company, shades and a Twister.
1) Basement Jaxx- Romeo
The number one summer sizzler is one that raises you from your BBQ induced food coma and gives you the biggest smile out of the five. It could have easily been anyone of three Basement Jaxx songs but the first single from their gold selling Rooty album has the same feel good factor a freckled friend gets from a bottle of SPF 50 sun cream.
So there you have it. Hopefully Adrian Chiles leaving our television screens is a sign of good things to come this summer. As soon as the rays come, have your iPod prepped, with Platform’s summer recommendations.
