[2] Judas Priest vocalist Rob Halford, at the time fronting his solo band, contributed backing vocals on the song.

He also commented that it was originally recorded as a chant at the end of the album, but its effectiveness resulted in its expansion into a full song and usage as the opener.

[8] Judas Priest lead singer Rob Halford was in a neighbouring studio when this song was first recorded and ended up singing backing vocals at the band's request, calling the lyrics a "rock and roll cocktail".

[10] Due to the frequency and blatant nature of the drug references in "Feel Good Hit of the Summer", a number of radio stations refused to play it.

In reference to the song, NME said in their review of the album that "Among modern American rock moments, it stands alongside "Smells Like Teen Spirit" or RATM's "Killing in the Name", such is its irresistible, instant impact", also labelling it an "anthem".

[21] Queens of the Stone Age have frequently performed "Feel Good Hit of the Summer" live since the release of Rated R and whilst touring subsequent albums.

On the band's tour for their 2007 album Era Vulgaris, the song was extended with numerous jams and new segments frequently taking it past the six-minute mark.

[24] "Feel Good Hit of the Summer" is used in videos by the Colorado Police Department to demonstrate the dangers of drunk driving,[24] one of two Queens of the Stone Age tracks to be used in such a way (the other being "Better Living Through Chemistry" which is used in a similar way by the San Diego County Sheriff's Office).

[25] "Feel Good Hit of the Summer" was used in the 2000 film Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2,[26] with the track also being included on its soundtrack release.

[27] Alternative rock band Yourcodenameis:milo performed a version of the track on the cover album Higher Voltage, given away free with issue 1164 of Kerrang!

[29][30] Rap duo Atmosphere entitled a drug themed song off their 2009 EP Leak at Will, "Feel Good Hit of the Summer Part 2" in reference to this track.

Continuing as such, the album's liner notes contain several worded warnings for each song, akin to parents' guides most commonly seen on the covers for DVDs.