It’s hard to write anything not tainted by current events, so even when thinking of such a beautifully carefree song as “Hot Fun In The Summertime”, I have to wonder… are we even going to have a summer this year?

At least for three minutes, I can close my eyes and escape into the joy that listening to “Hot Fun” generates. Hearing Sly and Freddie and Rose and Larry trade off vocals like best friends sitting on a picnic blanket immediately reminds me of barbecues and sandy beaches and outdoor frolicking; all the things I love about that period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Here’s to hoping we all get to experience at least a little of that carefree vibe in 2020.