Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | A Look Back at Nostalgic Summer Tunes!
Summer might just be the most exciting season of the year! When you think of summer, you think of outdoor fun like music festivals, the beach, fireworks, barbecues, and road trips.
For students, there’s also the long summer break—there’s no shortage of fun.
And no summer memories are complete without music to lift your spirits even higher.
In this article, we’re focusing on summer songs released in the 2000s and introducing a selection of hit tracks.
Whether you remember those days or aren’t very familiar with music from the 2000s, we hope you enjoy these sparkling summer tunes.
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Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | Introducing Nostalgic Summer Tunes! (51–60)
sparklingaiko
Singer-songwriter aiko, who scored numerous summer hits in the ’90s such as “Hanabi” and “Kabutomushi,” released “Kira Kira” in 2005—a refreshing pop tune crafted with summer in mind as the theme song for the Kansai TV/Fuji TV drama “Ganbatte Ikimasshoi.” Its intro features a memorable piano phrase that makes you feel like something good is about to happen; the sound alone conjures up a vision of a clear, translucent summer sky.
GuaranaSukima Suichi
Sukima Switch is a musical duo that has influenced many artists at the forefront of the J-POP scene and continues to be highly active today.
Their 8th single, Garana, which was used as the theme song for the film Rough, is memorable for its catchy melody carried by a high-energy, fast-paced ensemble.
The lyrics tell a story about taking a step forward even when you’re scared, and will likely give a supportive push to listeners who relate.
It’s a refreshing pop tune perfect for singing at karaoke in the hot summer season.
Shaka Beach ~Laka Laka La~UVERworld
Characterized by samba-style rhythms and Latin hues, this song is UVERworld’s eighth single, released on August 8, 2007.
Set against a summer beach backdrop, its lyrics vividly portray the free and open spirit of youth.
The bright, lively melody seems to symbolize the joy of summer days.
For many, listening to this track may bring back memories of the summer when it was released.
Sunny Day SundaySenchimentaru Basu
This song by Sentimental Bus is a refreshing track that evokes summer high school baseball.
Its lyrics, which depict a page of youth unfolding in the height of summer, and its driving melody leave a strong impression.
Released in 1999, it’s also well known for being used in a Pocari Sweat commercial.
Another distinctive feature is its baseball-centric production, including extensive sampling of sound effects from the baseball anime “Star of the Giants.” Although many years have passed since its release, it remains a beloved staple for baseball cheering.
Be sure to give this memorable classic a listen—it will stay with you alongside your summer memories!
Summer Songs That Hit in the 2000s | Nostalgic Summer Tunes! (61–70)
planetariumOtsuka Ai
A song performed by singer-songwriter Ai Otsuka that seems to express the movements of the heart tied to summer scenery.
It drew attention for being used as an insert song in the drama Boys Over Flowers and is one of Otsuka’s signature tracks, alongside Sakuranbo.
Centered on the sound of the piano while incorporating Japanese elements, it resonates with a calm, layered depth.
Looking back on summer memories, it overflows with a sense of poignancy—a piece that conveys someone cherishing their memories even as they carry their sadness.
sunflowerYūsuke
It’s a very love-filled song that perfectly suits Yusuke Kamiji—who is a talent, actor, and also a singer—with his gentle singing voice, and it’s a truly encouraging piece.
It’s a tender song that brings to mind lots of summer sunflowers and a sparkling sun, filling you with warmth.
FIREWORKSEXILE
A dance tune that ignites listeners’ passion to a boiling point, like grand fireworks scorching the night sky! The shamisen’s timbre adds a touch of Japanese elegance, while the relentless rap-fused sound overflows with the energetic appeal unique to EXILE’s early 14-member era.
Released in July 2009, this track was EXILE’s 31st single and topped the Oricon Weekly Chart.
It also gained wide recognition as the CM song for “Sky PerfecTV! EXILE TV,” and was included on the acclaimed million-selling album “Ai Subeki Mirai e” that same year.
It’s a must-recommend song for anyone who wants to enjoy the hot season to the fullest.