Summer Isn’t Over Yet: 2026 is the New 2016
Channel your inner tumblr girl, and groove through nostalgia.
by Saanya Malhotra ★ March 11th, 2026
Photo Credit: Chloe Cohen
Everyone’s heard it, 2026 is the new 2016. From trends, to apps and even fashion, 2016 is back baby. One thing that stood out from that era was the music. We can’t forget the songs that played in every birthday party, pool party, and through wired headphones. From Zara Larsson, to the Chainsmokers to Rihanna, we are bringing back those peak songs, albums and artists this year. So, girls, put on your dancing shoes and get ready to relive THE Golden era.
Here is a specially curated 2016 throwback playlist, meant to take you back to that era and relive those memories. Now it's time to sit back, relax and groove through nostalgia!
2026 is the new 2016:
Memory Lane:
Pool Party Vibes:
Dance your heart out to these songs that channel tropical, glittery, vibrant vibes. The perfect songs to bring you back to peak 2016parties, high school homecomings, and late-night pool parties. Blast these hits as you get ready, when you're with the girls, or when you're in a groovy mood!
Midnight Sun by Zara Larsson
Lush Life by Zara Larsson
Cheap Thrills by Sia
Bang Bang by Jessie J., Ariana Grande, and Niki Minaj
This Is What You Came for by Rihanna and Calvin Harris
Let Me Love You by DJ Snake and Justin Bieber
Worth It by Fifth Harmony
Talk Dirty To Me by Jason Derulo
Diamonds by Rihanna
Single Ladies by Beyonce
Nostalgic Feels:
Take a walk down memory lane as you listen to these songs and relive every moment and emotion. The perfect songs to sing a long to or play while you're in the shower, working, exercising or even during care rides. Get those cute speakers or earphones and relax while listening to these gems!
Sorry by Justin Bieber
Into You by Ariana Grande
Closer by The Chainsmokers
Roses by The Chainsmokers
Stitches by Shawn Mendes
Counting Stars by OneRepublic
Congratulations by Post Malone
Beautiful by One Direction
Best Song Ever by One Direction
Lean On by Major Lazor
Golden Era:
Hop around these top five albums of 2016, reminding yourself of the good times that passed and that are to come. The perfect mix of pop and chill to release those feel good hormones and reminisce. So hurry up, add these to your playlist and take a trip down memory lane!
25-Adele
Purpose-Justin Bieber
Anti-Rihanna
Dangerous Woman-Ariana Grande
Views-Drake
Headliners:
In case you forgot some peak golden era artists, don't worry! Here are 15 of the most streamed artists from 2016. There is no specific song listed, because each of their songs has its own magic. It’s the artist that truly creates that magic and feelings of nostalgia for us. This is your sign to go stalk these artists on Spotify, Apple Music or any other streaming service you use!
Zara Larsson
Justin Bieber
Rihanna
Drake
Ariana Grande
Adele
The Chainsmokers
21 Pilots
One Republic
Post Malone
Beyonce
Fifth Harmony
Major Lazor
One Direction
Jason Derulo
Embracing Life!
2026 may not literally be 2016, but in spirit it is definitely there. This era is one most people consider to be the best, purest and happiest.But, the world is always evolving and we can’t stay in the past forever. This just means that every year should be 2016 in spirit. So girls, live your life through all the classics; the feel good music, the music that makes you happy, and the music that makes you feel like yourself. After all, 2026 is the beginning of a new era where anything can happen.
Edited by: Maia Simmons & Ava Robbins