Whether it was downloading these songs from iTunes on an iPod or constantly hearing them played on the radio, these are songs that never fail to hit listeners with a wave of nostalgia. The early 2010s undoubtedly had some of the most addicting summer hits that still resonate with listeners to this day. 

Artists ranging from Rihanna to Bruno Mars filled long summer vacation days with unforgettable beats and voices. Here are some of the artists whose tracks defined this era.

“Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)” by Katy Perry

Taking it back to the 2010 album “Teenage Dream,” the song screams summer in the 2010s. It has an upbeat tempo that radiates summer weekend energy. Without a doubt, it is an entertaining summer song with an iconic music video to match.

“We Found Love” (feat. Calvin Harris) by Rihanna

From the 2011 album “Talk That Talk,” the beat is instantly burned into most people’s memory. Rihanna naturally has a voice that perfectly captures the feeling of summer. Right there with her other songs, this one remains one of the defining pop hits of the era and is an anthem meant to be shouted along to.

“Lights” (Single Version) by Ellie Goulding

This song on the 2011 album “Lights,” brings back core memories of summer nights and those long days at the carnival. The instrumental feels so intensely nostalgic combined with Ellie Goulding’s unique voice. The repetition of the word “Lights” stays with listeners long after the song ends.

“Domino” by Jessie J

Released on the 2011 album “Who You Are,” it has an infectious chorus and rhythm. The song showcases Jessie J’s powerful vocals and the carefree energy of summer days where everything seemed so simple. The moment where the beat builds before dropping is so addicting.

“Give Me Everything” (feat. Ne-Yo, Afrojack & Nayer) by Pitbull

Looking back to the 2011 album “Planet Pit,” the song is the ultimate party track. It takes one back to those days of throwing pool parties and enjoying endless summer evenings. The track gives the vibe of living now and not worrying about tomorrow, which is exactly what summer feels like.

“Wild Ones” (feat. Sia) by Flo Rida 

From the 2012 album “Wild Ones,” the combination of Flo Rida and Sia’s voices creates the perfect summertime collaboration. Something about the instrumental blends so well with their contrasting voices. It is the kind of song that brings back memories of summer road trips.

“Locked Out of Heaven” by Bruno Mars

Featured on the 2012 album “Unorthodox Jukebox,” it is the best childhood throwback track and played nonstop anytime the radio was turned on. It truly is a hit that never gets old and continues to feel like the first time listening. It evokes the feeling of warm summer days and endless sunshine.

“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” by Taylor Swift

The 2012 album “Red” is home to the song that became one of Taylor Swift’s most recognizable. Taylor Swift is impossible to leave out when it comes to throwback summer songs, consistently releasing hit after hit on “Red.” There is something about the lyrics that makes them so freeing and fun to sing on full blast in a convertible.

These songs were popular for a reason. They continue to bring back an overwhelming sense of nostalgia that instantly transports listeners back.