CNN Hits The Streets: New Yorkers Vote On This Year's Summer Anthem

Michael

3 min read

Post on Sep 02, 2025

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CNN Hits the Streets: New Yorkers Vote on This Year's Summer Anthem

New York City, the city that never sleeps, is also the city that never stops debating – especially when it comes to music. This summer, CNN took to the bustling streets of the Big Apple to find out what song will reign supreme as the unofficial summer anthem of 2024. Forget the Billboard charts; we’re diving into the pulse of the city itself to uncover the true soundtrack of the season.

From the vibrant energy of Times Square to the laid-back vibes of Brooklyn's Prospect Park, CNN reporters interviewed New Yorkers from all walks of life – students, business professionals, artists, and tourists – to get their take on the hottest tracks of the summer. The results were as diverse and exciting as the city itself, showcasing a fascinating mix of genres and tastes.

<h3>A Battle of the Genres: The Contenders for Summer Anthem Glory</h3>

This year's contenders represent a wide spectrum of musical styles, reflecting the eclectic musical landscape of NYC. Early frontrunners include:

• Global Pop Anthems: Several globally popular tracks dominated early conversations, highlighting the city's international flavor and the power of catchy melodies in unifying a diverse population. These songs often boasted infectious beats and singalong choruses, perfect for summer barbecues and late-night gatherings.

• Upbeat Hip-Hop and R&B: The rhythmic pulse of hip-hop and R&B resonated deeply with many, reflecting the genre's enduring popularity and its strong connection to the city's cultural identity. Several tracks with strong lyrical content and undeniable grooves emerged as potential contenders.

• Indie darlings: Surprisingly, several lesser-known indie artists also gained significant traction, showcasing the city's open-mindedness towards emerging talent and its appreciation for unique and creative sounds. This underscored the importance of local scenes and the discovery of fresh music within the city's vibrant underground.

• Throwbacks: No summer anthem poll is complete without a nod to the classics. Several nostalgic tracks from previous summers made surprise appearances, highlighting the enduring power of familiar melodies and the collective memories associated with them. This generated fascinating discussions about the evolution of summer sounds over the years.

<h3>The CNN Methodology: More Than Just a Poll</h3>

Unlike simple online polls, CNN's approach went beyond simple voting. Reporters engaged in lively discussions with New Yorkers, understanding why they chose their favorite songs. This qualitative approach gave valuable insights into the cultural significance of music and its connection to individual experiences and collective memories. This nuanced perspective made the results far richer than a simple numerical count.

<h3>The Verdict: A Summer Soundtrack for Everyone</h3>

While we can’t reveal the ultimate winner just yet (tune into CNN tonight for the big reveal!), the process itself has been a captivating journey through the heart of New York City's musical landscape. The diverse range of songs highlighted the city's vibrant culture and its ability to embrace a wide spectrum of musical tastes. This year’s summer anthem, regardless of the final choice, promises to be a soundtrack that resonates with everyone, from seasoned music lovers to casual listeners.

Stay tuned to CNN for the official announcement of New York City’s 2024 Summer Anthem! And be sure to share your own summer playlist with us using #CNNSummerAnthem on social media. Let's continue the conversation!