Gurls Gone Viral: Katy Perry is the Queen of the Music-Video Homage of Summer

(The Washington Boys do "California Gurls")

By now we all conceded that Katy Perry's "California Gurls" was the definitive Song of Summer (although we were holding out hope for dark-horse contender, "Bed Intruder Remix"). The Sunshine State homage was also the standout for gay boys looking to create a fun and sexy viral video. We compiled some of the more notable interpretations, plus one or two other tributes. Did we miss someone? Drop a link in the comment field! —Dan Avery

The Washington Boys' "California Gurls"
We're kinda digging the fact that these guys set their video in what looks like the middle of the Rocky Mountains. Doesn't exactly scream summer beach party, but it appears they're having a blast!

Ryan James Yezak's "California Gays"
Yezak and his pals score mundo points for high production values, cool choreography and aw-shucks cute boys. And the East Coast/West Coast rivalry is hi-larious. Also check out their version of Perry's peen paean, "Peacock."

Ammon Miller's "North Dakota Bois"
Okay, so Miller doesn't have the voice of an angel, but at least he sang—and came up with some pretty humorous lyrics about the Peace Garden State too. We're guessing Miller and his co-stars are heteros, but we give them honorary gay status for this fun (and funny) clip.

KoverBoys' "California Gurls" (Acoustic) 
Two college guys with an acoustic guitar and an earnest-sounding vocalist? Normally we'd run for the hills, but the "Legalize Gay" tee and the subversive spin on a bubblegum-pop hit makes this a keeper.

Old Guys' "California Boys"
What can we say? Old dudes singing about A.C. Slater and constipation is just funny!

AIDS/LifeCycle riders' "California Gurls"
It's rare—if not downright unheard of—for a viral music video to educate viewers about a good cause. So we give major props to the riders and roadies who made this clip, which highlights the folks behind AIDS/LifeCycle, the awesome annual charity bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

Fire Island Pines Boys' "Rain on My Parade"
The lads who gave us Miley Cyrus' "Party in the USA" last summer didn't make a Perry parody, but they did unleash a charming video for Glee's version of "Don't Rain on My Parade" at the start of summer. This is definitely going to be our Season Affective Disorder treatment for the next six months.

Rhonny Tufino's "Alejandro"
We couldn't do a video roundup without giving at least a little love to Lady Gaga. Artfag Rhonny does a commendable job with production values and such, but is he actually singing or did he just slow down the original enough to make it sound like a male voice?