Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. A roundup of summer songs.
80s songs—nostalgic for those who lived through the era in real time, and increasingly popular among younger listeners as a fresh sound.
Many people have become captivated by their vividness that triggers instant flashbacks and their glittering production, haven’t they?
In this article, we’re focusing on “summer songs” from the 80s!
We’ve gathered popular tracks with rich soundscapes that are loved across generations.
Enjoy a wonderful summer with timeless classics that never lose their shine, no matter how times change!
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Classic nostalgic summer hits from the ’80s. Summer song roundup (21–30)
Shinin’ On-kun is sad.rukku
LOOK was a rock band active from 1985 to 1988.
Their career lasted only three years, but they left behind some of the most iconic songs of the 1980s.
One of them is “Shinin’ On Kimi ga Kanashii.” It’s a track that portrays a man walking along a beach at night, reflecting on memories with the one he loves.
Rather than a typical summer song, it’s more about recalling summer, making it a nice listen during the change of seasons.
I hope it inspires you to reminisce about those wonderful days.
EscapeInagaki Junichi
The fourth single, released in 1983.
It was featured in a Yokohama Rubber TV commercial.
The vocalist’s style of singing while playing the drums—rare among Japanese artists—became a hot topic.
It’s a hidden gem by a master of Japanese city pop and Japanese AOR.
With its mature worldview and fast, thrilling melody, it’s a cool summer track.
Beloved classic summer hits of the ’80s. Summer songs roundup (31–40)
South Wind – SOUTH WIND –Ōta Hiromi
Hiromi Ohta’s “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” is a song that lets you savor the open, liberating feel of summer.
Released in 1980 as her 17th single, it was used as the commercial song for Kirin Beer’s “Kirin Orange” at the time.
Its refreshing sound—perfect for a soft drink commercial—puts you in a pleasant mood.
The lyrics, told from the perspective of young people who can’t wait for summer, feel wonderfully fresh and innocent.
Be sure to listen to “Minamikaze – SOUTH WIND -” and soak up the summer vibe!
You are 1000%.1986 omega toraibu
The debut single that made 1986 Omega Tribe widely known, “Kimi wa 1000%.” It’s one of their signature songs from the period when lead vocalist Carlos Toshiki was in the band—a summer tune depicting a dramatic, glittering summer romance.
The chorus melody is so cool.
The phrase “1000%” expresses a kind of indescribable radiance that makes your heart skip a beat.
I bet it brings back bittersweet summer memories for some listeners.
The refreshing quality unique to Omega Tribe—likely novel back in the ’80s—feels so pleasant.
Summer Dayofukōsu
It’s their 26th single, released in 1984.
The synthesizers and electronic drums bring back the nostalgic sound of the 1980s.
The young Kazumasa Oda’s high, clear, clean-toned vocals are perfect for summer! The chorus has a simple melody, yet the beautiful harmonies make it feel dramatic.
WaveKadamatsu Toshiki
The final track from their debut album “SEA BREEZE,” released in 1981.
It’s a beautiful ballad you’ll want to listen to on a summer sunset beach.
Its bittersweet, mellow chord progression and melody feel luxurious and bubbly, evoking both the buoyant spirit of the booming ’80s and the poignancy of a summer romance’s end.
A hidden summer gem cherished by fans.
DIVE INTO YOUR BODYTM NETWORK
TM NETWORK, known for a string of hits that epitomize the golden age of Eurobeat.
Released in July 1989, this track stands out with its celebratory guitars and synthesizers, and vocals charged with heat and allure.
Produced at a studio in London, it’s a song Tetsuya Komuro crafted under the influence of the local dance music scene.
With an arrangement designed to excite listeners, it’s also famed for igniting crowds at live shows.
Highly recommended for anyone seeking a refreshing rush that blows away the summer heat.