Artists are rushing to claim the title of “song of the summer” as the school year comes to a close. From 2024’s iconic “Brat summer,” filled with Charli XCX tracks and bright neon aesthetics, to more traditional contenders, artists this year are aiming to define summer 2026. 

As albums and collaborations pile up, other pop culture moments are also looking to leave a mark on the season. Red Bull’s newest seasonal edition brings a citrus twist, “Survivor 50” continues to make history while leaning into nostalgia and a familiar soccer coach returns to lead a women’s team in “Ted Lasso.” Here’s what might help define the summer, according to the distractions team.

Zara Larsson and PinkPantheress reunite for deluxe album

“Stateside + Zara Larsson” made waves across social media as PinkPantheress and Zara Larsson’s collaboration brought a fresh, genre-blending sound to pop. Now, the duo returns on Larsson’s collaboration-heavy remix album, “Midnight Sun: Girls Trip.”

The title track, “Midnight Sun,” features PinkPantheress, bringing the two pop artists back together for what could be another standout. Across the deluxe album, features from Shakira, Tyla, Madison Beer and more bring new energy to the project.

The expanded release continues Larsson’s recent pop run, leaning into upbeat production and collaborative tracks that have resonated with listeners online. 

“Midnight Sun: Girls Trip” is available now on streaming platforms. Jesse Jones

Ariana Grande announces new album ‘Petal’

This pop princess is ready to bloom with her eighth studio album “Petal.” On Tuesday, April 28, Grande announced her highly-anticipated new album on Instagram, along with the official cover, which features a black-and-white photo of the singer smiling with cascades of her hair across her face. 

In a press release, Grande described the project as “something that is full of life and growing through the cracks of something cold and hard and challenging.”

In addition to the new album, she will be embarking on the “Eternal Sunshine” tour in June, her first tour since the “Sweetener” tour in 2019. 

With a new album and tour, Grande is planting her full pop music comeback. “Petal” will be released July 31. Maria Hartzell

Madonna teams up with Sabrina Carpenter in new song ‘Bring Your Love’

Sabrina Carpenter has always been known for her draw towards a more retro approach to music, but now she’s partnered with 80’s pop royalty Madonna in their new single “Bring Your Love.”

The song calls to the sound of a younger Madonna, who has stood her ground in hits such as “Dark Ballet,” “Rebel Heart” and “Human Nature.”

The single speaks to the strength they hold even when people try to bring them down, and how they’ve “did it for love.” Empowering lyrics including “I don’t want your judgement or your expectations,” and “you’ll never break me” give the song an uplifting sentiment for listeners.

Along with a catchy beat, the single is a dance floor anthem for people everywhere, and a toast to the addicting music of Carpenter and Madonna. Tucker Young

Red Bull releases new Summer Edition drink

Red Bull released its new Summer Edition Sudachi Lime drink last week on April 27, offering a Japanese-inspired flavor to the energy drink market. The new beverage also features a zero-sugar option. The drink is now available nationwide at select grocery and convenience stores.

After trying the drink myself, I found it had a familiar, refreshing flavor reminiscent of Sprite. This is a strong choice for summer because of its citrus-lime flavor. 

My personal favorite Red Bull flavor is Juneberry, which was also introduced as a Summer Edition drink in 2022, but Sudachi Lime has quickly become one of my top choices as well. This is because of its smooth, light and not overpowering flavor compared to some energy drinks. 

Anyone seeking a new energy drink should definitely try this one. Overall, I really enjoyed it and think it’s a great addition to the Red Bull’s seasonal lineup. Shania Williams

‘Survivor 50’ hits emotional beats with familiar staples

Fan-favorite moments like the “Survivor” auction and letters from home return in episode 10, deepening emotional connections among the remaining players.

The auction begins with each Survivor receiving $500 to spend in $20 increments on comfort or chaos items. Intense bidding follows as the players compete for comforts like toothpaste, fried chicken and letters from home.

To gain letters from home, all remaining Survivors must bid together, but the reward comes with a twist: the MrBeast Beware Advantage. The twist continues the season’s theme of celebrity cameos and new advantages.

At Tribal Council, the advantage is revealed. One player must flip a coin and call heads or tails. If correct, they gain immunity for the night, an idol for future use and double the prize pot to $2 million. If incorrect, they go home without a vote.

Rick Devens steps up, eager to cause chaos. He calls it correctly, securing the advantage and shifting the game.

With Devens safe and Tiffany Ervin holding immunity, Stephenie LaGrossa is voted out as the fifth jury member, despite using her Steal A Vote on Devens. 

Watch “Survivor 50” Wednesdays on CBS or Paramount+. Jesse Jones

The hit Apple TV original Ted Lasso is returning

The show follows an American college football coach named Ted Lasso, played by Jason Sudeikis, who is hired by the owner of English soccer team AFC Richmond in hopes his inexperience destroys the team. The previous season ended with Ted leaving Richmond to return to Kansas to be closer to his son.

The new season takes an unexpected twist, with Ted returning to England to coach a brand-new women’s team, bringing all kinds of new challenges.

The first trailer released April 28, revealing many returning characters including Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddington), Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein), Coach Beard (Brendan Hunt) and more.

The new season premieres Aug. 5 with weekly episodes coming out until Oct. 7. Karlie Lohr