This summer has been full of ups and downs, but one thing’s for sure: a great playlist can make any moment better! We’ve gone ahead and compiled the five best summertime albums to listen to while outside or in your screened porch this warm season. Check below to see which albums have made the list and what we appreciate most about their sweet tunes.

Album Name: Purple Rain

Artist: Prince & The Revolution

Release Year: 1984

This album is forever a cult classic summer necessity. From “When Doves Cry” to “Purple Rain” to “I Would Die For You,” there are iconic songs that will bring all family members joy. Purple Rain was the sixth studio album released by Prince, and was released at the same time as the Warner Brothers film that year under the same name.

Album Name: Teenage Dream

Artist: Katy Perry

Release Year: 2010

Nobody will forget the 2010 release of this memorable summer album. With catchy songs like “Teenage Dream,” “California Gurls,” and “Firework,” all generations can bob their heads to the poppy beats. Teenage Dream was the third studio album by Katy Perry, selling more than 192,000 copies within the first week following its release.

Album Name: Endless Summer

Artist: Beach Boys

Release Year: 1974

The upbeat, cheery tunes from this album are great for summer cookouts and long drives alike. From “Surfin’ Safari” to “California Girls” to “I Get Around,” this staple summer album is one for the books. Endless Summer was a compilation album from 1962-1965 by the Beach Boys, following the success of the film “American Graffiti.”

Album Name: Out of Time

Artist: R.E.M.

Release Year: 1991

This sadder-toned album is fantastic for summer hangouts with deep conversations. With songs like “Losing My Religion,” “Texarkana,” and “Radio Song,” this album is a must for super summertime events. Out of Time was the seventh studio album by R.E.M., and was the driving force behind this band becoming an internationally-recognized rock act.

Album Name: Love. Angel. Music. Baby.

Artist: Gwen Stefani

Release Year: 2004

The spunky, high-energy songs within this album are necessary at all summer events - indoors and outdoors alike. With songs such as “Hollaback Girl,” “Rich Girl,” and “What You Waiting For,” you have to have this album playing on your speaker this summer. Love. Angel. Music. Baby. was the debut studio album by Gwen Stefani following her departure from No Doubt, and launched her solo career.

Do you think a different album should be on the top 5 summer album playlist? Let us know on social media by DMing us or using our hashtags!