summer walker

bridget barry
3 min readDec 8, 2023

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Summer Walker, a rising star in contemporary R&B, has captivated audiences with her soulful voice, intimate lyrics, and a fresh take on the genre. While opinions on the “best” songs may vary among listeners, several tracks have emerged as standouts, showcasing Summer Walker’s artistry and contributing to her rapid ascent in the music industry.

One of Summer Walker’s breakthrough hits is “Girls Need Love,” released in 2018 as part of her debut mixtape, “Last Day of Summer.” The song resonated with audiences for its candid exploration of female desire and the need for intimacy. With its smooth production and Walker’s sultry vocals, “Girls Need Love” became an anthem that challenged traditional gender norms and emphasized the importance of women expressing their desires openly.

The title track of her debut studio album, “Over It” (2019), is a collaboration with Drake. The song is a sultry and melodic exploration of the complexities of modern relationships. Walker’s seamless blend of vulnerability and confidence, combined with Drake’s smooth verses, creates a compelling and memorable track. “Over It” received critical acclaim and contributed to the album’s commercial success, solidifying Summer Walker’s position in the R&B landscape.

“Come Thru,” another standout from “Over It,” is a reimagining of Usher’s classic hit “You Make Me Wanna…” Walker’s version features a contemporary twist, blending nostalgic elements with her modern R&B sound. The track showcases her ability to pay homage to R&B legends while putting her own stamp on the genre. The collaboration with Usher added a layer of authenticity to the song, creating a memorable and dynamic piece.

“Playing Games,” released as a single in 2019, is a slow-burning R&B ballad that highlights Summer Walker’s vocal range and emotional depth. The song explores themes of love, trust, and the challenges of navigating relationships. Walker’s evocative delivery and the atmospheric production create an immersive listening experience. “Playing Games” became a fan favorite and contributed to the anticipation surrounding her debut album.

The introspective and emotionally charged “Session 32” from her debut mixtape, “Last Day of Summer,” showcases Walker’s ability to convey vulnerability through her music. The stripped-down production allows her raw vocals to take center stage as she reflects on the challenges and uncertainties of love. “Session 32” is a poignant moment in Walker’s discography that resonates with listeners for its authenticity and relatability.

From her EP “Clear” (2019), “Riot” stands out as a powerful and impassioned track that explores the complexities of love and longing. The minimalist production, coupled with Walker’s emotive vocals, creates a raw and intimate atmosphere. “Riot” showcases Walker’s ability to convey intense emotions through her music, further solidifying her reputation as an artist who fearlessly delves into the depths of human experience.

“Body” from the album “Over It” is a sensual and confident celebration of physical intimacy. The track’s catchy melody and Walker’s assertive delivery make it a standout in her repertoire. “Body” became a commercial success and demonstrated Summer Walker’s ability to navigate themes of sensuality with both sophistication and authenticity.

While these tracks are often cited among Summer Walker’s best, it’s essential to recognize the breadth of her discography, including songs like “Come Thru,” “Drunk Dialing…LODT,” and “I’ll Kill You.” Each track contributes to the mosaic of her artistry, showcasing her range as a vocalist and her willingness to explore the nuances of love and relationships.

In conclusion, Summer Walker’s best songs are a reflection of her unique voice, lyrical depth, and willingness to push the boundaries of R&B. From her early mixtape days to her chart-topping albums, Walker has consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences for its authenticity and emotional resonance. As she continues to evolve as an artist, fans eagerly await the next chapters in Summer Walker’s promising career.

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