No other piece of gear represents the outdoors better than a good pair of sunglasses, which protect your eyes from the glare of the fresh powder on the slopes and that also keep your retinas from burning on the beach. Because the hot summer weather is here, slip on your favorite pair of shades while listening to these sunglass-inspired tunes on your iPod:

"Sunglasses at Night" (Written and performed by Corey Hart)
The first single released off his debut album "First Offense," this was one of the most memorable techno love songs from the 1980's. According to several reports, though, Hart originally wrote "Sunglasses at Night" about a futuristic society where everyone had to wear their shades after dark. To make it more commercial, he was asked to change the lyrics.

"The Future's So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades" (Performed by Timbuk 3)
This high-energy song came off "Greetings from Timbuk 3," the debut album of the group formed by Barbara and Pat MacDonald. The lyrics are told from the perspective of a nuclear science student, who is blinded by his massive earnings potential. Pat MacDonald had said, though, that the song contained a grimmer message about the threat of nuclear destruction.

"Cheap Sunglasses" (Performed by ZZ Top)
Definitely an 80's tune, this ZZ Top song celebrates the glories of cheap eyewear, no matter if they help ease a painful hangover or accentuate the beauty of a pretty girl.

"Shades"(Sung by Dean Martin)
No list of sunglass songs is complete without one from Dean Martin, a member of the famous "Rat Pack" during the 1960's. Dino sang this romantic ballad about a brokenhearted man who hides his teary eyes behind dark glasses, but nothing can truly hide the pain he's feeling.

"Drivin' into the Sun" (Performed by Sherrie Austin)
More of a love song than a warning about sunshine slowdowns on the highway, Austin sings of a love so powerful that it is as bright as driving into the sun without shades. She also warns listeners that the light will fade, though, on even the most powerful love.

Resources:
http://www.coreyhart.com/
http://www.sherrieaustin.net/more.html
http://www.coreyhart.com/