JoySauce Radio: Refresh Your Summer Playlist with These Artists
From the perfect road trip songs to tunes ideal for soaking up the sun, we got you this month
Words by Anjana Pawa
JoySauce Radio: Consider JoySauce Radio our own personal song recommendations—from the tunes and videos our writers love to DJ-produced mixes of dance floor bangers—all from Asian and Pacific Islander artists around the world.
Look no further for a refresh to your summer playlists. This list brings together an eclectic mix of genres, ensuring there's something for everyone. From brain-tickling pop hooks that make your feet tap to energetic anthems for your adventures, these tracks will keep you company whether you're soaking up the sun at the beach, embarking on a road trip, or simply enjoying the company of friends.
“No Explanations” by Stephanie Poetri, Elephante, Zhang Yanqi
Stephanie Poetri is a singer-songwriter signed to 88rising, a record company that regularly uplifts Asian talent. The Indonesian artist is best known for her vulnerable lyrics and soft tunes. This collaboration between three very distinct artists—Elephante makes dance music, and Zhang Yanqi is a former idol and rapper from China—created a song that allowed their talents to melt together like butter and for Poetri to shine in a different way. Upbeat and fun, this song will be sure to perk up your day and is perfect for your summer playlist.
“All At Once” by Kaleah Lee
This soft and somber tune allows for Kaleah Lee’s voice to be the star of this song and the lyrics tug on your heartstrings. The artist cites Phoebe Bridgers, Lorde, and Taylor Swift as her inspirations and regularly posts covers of their songs. You can hear their influences on her original tracks, but she also brings individuality, vulnerability, and style to each one. “All At Once” is a beautiful amalgamation of her personal experiences and those that have raised her into the musician she is today.
“Super Shy” by NewJeans
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard of NewJeans, the new girl group from HYBE that’s taking over the K-pop scene. These girls have put out massive hits like “Ditto” and “OMG,” which you’ve definitely heard if you’re on TikTok. The latest is “Super Shy,” a distinctively funky track they put out as a pre-release from their upcoming album, slated to drop later this summer.
“Ride or Die” by POLARTROPICA
In this collaboration with Edgar Everyone, POLARTROPICA stuns with a new, fresh song. This tune is a dreamy, electro-pop ride through the journey of having a new love, a vibe perfect for these long, hot days The soft vocals juxtaposed against the funky backtrack makes this track super danceable, and one that’s sure to get stuck in your head.
“House On A Hill” by Eric Nam
Eric Nam is a multi-hyphenate who isn’t just a jack of all trades, but a master of all trades. He’s a singer, songwriter, host, CEO, and advocate. His vocals stand out on a song like this, which has a stringy, plucky backtrack. This may be his most personal track yet, his lyrics dive into feelings about what it really means to be happy. The vocalist explores themes that are a bit more consequential, a contrast to his usual love songs.
Published on July 19, 2023
Words by Anjana Pawa
Anjana Pawa is a Brooklyn-based culture reporter who regularly covers music, entertainment and beauty. You can find her on Twitter at @apawawrites.