Summer is here, and so is the perfect soundtrack for it. The NRT staff has curated a must-hear Summer Playlist, filled with uplifting anthems, heartfelt worship, and road trip-ready jams that resonate with both the soul and the season. Whether you're cruising down coastal highways, unwinding by the lake, or enjoying long evenings around a fire pit, these songs are designed to accompany you through every summer moment with faith and joy. Check out the playlist on Spotify and Apple Music, and discover some of our favorite highlights below, including fresh tracks from Michael W. Smith, Switch, Sean Rodriguez, and more.
“Still Small Voice” utilizes moments of sudden silence to illustrate the power of God’s presence in calming the mind. Wait for God to orchestrate the plans for your life. You have nothing to bring to God. Perhaps you expect something in return, rather than recognizing that nothing compares to the greatness of knowing Jesus. Faith is when we are empty of ourselves and filled with Him and His Holy Spirit.
No matter what you are going through, if you are searching for the words to pray to God, sing along with Switch: “No more listening/To all the lies that I’ve let in/Anything that doesn’t sound like You/Your voice brings peace/Calms my anxieties/Calling me back to what is true/That even when my mind’s playing tricks on me/You are always there, never out of reach/Constant, right now/Filling my head so loud/You quiet the noise to set me free.” - Kevin Davis
Michael W. Smith - "Arms Around The Sun"
For decades, Michael W. Smith has skillfully navigated multiple genres, and fans are rapidly revisiting 1992's "Change Your World " with his new single, "Arms Around the Sun." This single, along with its visually striking music video, is bringing pop back to the forefront and hopefully indicates more to come after what has been a multi-decade journey into the worship genre. - Kevin McNeese
Derek Ryan (feat. Kurtis Hoppie, Brianna Grace, Spencer Boliou) - "Stars"
Christian music is sorely lacking multi-vocal groups. CAIN is dominating the contemporary charts, while Anthem Lights focuses primarily on worship; however, few pop groups are sharing the mic. Enter the crew called Upside Down Kingdom, consisting of Kurtis Hoppie, Derek Ryan, Brianna Grace, and Spencer Boliou. Based in the Northwest, they are just beginning to gain some national attention, and "Stars" is a step in the right direction. This infectious single combines the best elements of all the artists for a truly unique sound in Christian music, making it a perfect fit for your summer road trip. - Kevin McNeese
Eauclaire - "You Me the Kids"
“You Me the Kids” by Nashville indie rock band Eauclaire is a nostalgic, feel-good anthem that celebrates love, family, and simple living. With rich harmonies, soaring guitars, and heartfelt lyrics, it captures the magic of everyday moments. Inspired by the band’s current season of life—raising kids and building a meaningful life—it’s a modern love letter to home, dreams, and togetherness. It’s perfect for sunset drives and quiet reflections. - Kevin McNeese
Sean Rodriguez (feat. Disciple) - "It Is Finished"
Duets between artists are always exciting, especially when they blend different genres. Pop/rock singer Sean Rodriguez teamed up with the hard-rocking Disciple to release the highly infectious "It Is Finished." Singing about how Christ ended any power death has over us, the lyrics are uplifting and encouraging. The beat is meant to be played on full blast with the windows down. Kevin Young's screaming contribution to the song adds a gritty gravitas that will make you sit up and take notice. Fire up the loudest speakers you can bring to the beach this summer and blast this surefire hit for everyone to hear. - J.J. Francesco
Josiah Queen - "Yesterday Is Dead"
Almost every day, Josiah Queen announces a new song on his social media, and he hasn't released one yet that I haven't loved. His new track, "Yesterday Is Dead," is a powerful reminder for believers to let go of the past and move forward into the new things God wants to do in and through our lives. If you're ready to step into a new season and leave the past behind, this is a song you'll want to have on repeat this summer. - Janice Henriquez
Forrest Frank - "NO L's"
A core memory I carry with me is blasting “NO L’s” by Forrest Frank in the car with friends, with the windows rolled down. Not only is this song super fun to listen to, but its lyrics also carry an important reminder: “The battle's been won/He said it, it's done/So we ain't taking no L's.” The devil will do everything he can to make us feel lost, broken, and defeated; however, Jesus has already told us that the battle has been won and that He has overcome the world (John 16:33). Whether you’re blasting this song in your headphones or screaming the lyrics into the wind, remember that the battle has been won because Jesus has overcome the world. - Gilead Adams
Anya Lee - "Simple"
“Simple” by up-and-coming CCM artist Anya Lee is a smooth, feel-good song that makes the concept easily understandable. God’s love for us is free, uncomplicated, and comes with no strings attached. The hook reminds us that He expects nothing from us except our surrender and our hearts. This one is happy, soothing, and catchy. It’s perfect for enjoying time by the beach, at the lake, or relaxing by the fire pit. - Tommy G
OpenAI's ChatGPT aided with this article. Assembled from all corners of North America and many other places in between, the NRTeam consists of staffers whose energy is equally devoted to loving and writing about the music they cherish.
NEW!BEHIND THE SONG
#1296 - Mary-Clair
A candid conversation about faith, vulnerability, and finding God
ADVERTISEMENT
NEW!MOVIE REVIEW Miracle
NRT reviews the new movie after attending the premiere
NEW!SERIES REVIEW
A Night At Wingfeather
We attended the show's premiere of the Angel Studios animated show
NEW!NRT LISTS
Worship Into 2026
Standout new worship releases that invite the Church to sing and reflect
NEW!THE CHH DROP
#261 - Gavin the Hotrod
What's new this week in Christian rap and hip-hop
