Underrated Artists You Need to Vibe with This Summer, by Karla Garcia

It's been a hectic school year, and not to mention a crazy 2026. Does anyone else feel like work has been non-stop these past few months? The semester is wrapping up, and more than ever, everyone needs to relax to some good music. I'm sure I'm not the only one who's felt stressed and uptight lately, and is desperately looking forward to letting loose this summer! There's no better feeling than a warm breeze hitting your face while the excitement of new music fills your spirit. This evocative feeling is what I live for, making life’s endless demands worthwhile. Summertime will always be my favorite part of the year—it lifts my mood and inspires my musical discoveries. Uncovering artists during this feel-good season is the cherry on top. Let me introduce you to three artists who have severely underrated summer bops. These songs are exactly what summer feels like and won't disappoint you. The vibes are beautiful, the melodies inspiring, and the performance idyllic—think tracks like “Glitter” by Tyler, The Creator or “Late Night Talking” by Harry Styles. 

Claire Rosinkranz 

Claire Rosinkranz, Atlantic Records.

Singer-songwriter Claire Rosinkranz brings a refreshing sound to the season. Her viral hit “Backyard Boy” is quirky and light. It's the type of song that makes you feel as if everything is perfect. Tracks like “i'm too pretty for this,” “Frankenstein,” “Sad in Hawaii,” “Jayden,” and “Dancer” are also summer staples. These numbers are catchy and filled with affectionate lyrics, solidifying an alternative bedroom-pop sound. If you’re a The Summer I Turned Pretty enthusiast, watch the “Swinging at the Stars” music video. This song and music video are critically underrated and Gavin Casalegno, who plays Jeremiah, is in it! Seize this fun, sun-kissed track to daydream of summer romance. Make Claire Rosinkranz your bestie this summer break and engulf her discography. She's a vibe, we love a talented queen who boldly proclaims: “I Wanna Be In Love So Bad,” because who doesn't? Rosinkranz will be performing at the A&R Music Bar in Columbus on May 12th and Lollapalooza on Friday, July 31st. I'll be streaming the festival and “dancing around like a clown at the circus” in my living room. 

Jaden 

Jaden, Wonderland. 

Why did I just find out that Jaden Smith makes music? Talk about missing out. Since I discovered his CTV3: Cool Tape Vol. 3 album, I've been hooked on his trippy summer aesthetic. Jaden's interplay of rap, tranquil hip-hop, and alternative pop-rock elements is captivating, producing a visceral music experience. His poignant flow and vocals are a beautiful escapism. Tracks like “Falling For You” feat. Justin Bieber, “LUCY!,” “Young In Love,” “BYE,” “Drops of Sun,” “Your Voice / Bethel, NY,” and “Cabin Fever” from CTV:3 are effortlessly harmonious and psychogenic. Note, the “Cabin Fever” music video is ridiculously colorful and nostalgic, and you should definitely watch it! Other summer-like releases include “Roses,” “Gorgeous,” and “Summertime in Paris” featuring WILLOW. (We love an iconic sibling duo!) Dive into Jaden's beach-tanned, flowers-are-blooming-because-of-young-love vibe. Summer never dies on the hills, so play these songs for an ethereal thrill. 

JAEHYUN 

Jaehyun, Kpopping.

If you’re in the mood for classy poolside records, JAEHYUN's got you. He brings 

jazz-induced, R&B melodies to the party. Mixing Korean and English lyrics, his songs are vibrant and groovy. “Horizon” is relaxing—you're having a main character moment by the ocean waves, blue-skies and all. “Dandelion” and “Can't Get You” follow this theme with a stylish production. Their synths, beats, and jazzy elements are delightful, creating a romantic feel. Tracks like “Call It Off” with Emotional Oranges, “Easy,” and “Flamin’ Hot Lemon” have a trendy R&B sound with flirtatious undertones and velvety vocals. The vibes are chill, but we’re out here sipping on that golden lemonade. Speaking of sweetness, the videos for “Horizon” and “Dandelion” are incredibly tasteful and Pinterest-coded. JAEHYUN's got elegance and looks expensive, that's all I'm saying! His music is perfect for sizzling summer evenings. You're out of the water vibing, drink in hand, life’s amazing. 

If by now you're not excited for summer, then get to it! Let Claire Rosinkranz, Jaden, and JAEHYUN accompany you this break to take in that Californian summer essence. Listen to all the recommended tracks here. I'm sure you'll enjoy these artists, keeping their songs on repeat, while taking in those atmospheric feels. Life’s been busy, and you deserve a dance session. Jump around, have your own little music festival at home, or wherever you'll travel to this summer!