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 (41–50)
Summer BeachOkada Yukiko
Written and composed by Ami Ozaki and arranged by Masataka Matsutoya, this quintessential summer-themed masterpiece was released in April 1985 as Yukiko Okada’s fifth single.
Its crystal-clear melody and lyrics that capture the flutter of a girl in love blend beautifully with Okada’s warm low-to-mid vocal tones, instantly transporting listeners to a sparkling seaside scene.
The song was also used in a Glico “Cafe Jelly” commercial and as background music for the anime Touch, and it reached No.
5 on the Oricon weekly charts.
It’s perfect for moments when you want to feel a refreshing summer breeze or bask in the sweetness of a youthful crush.
Equator Girl: Dokki!Yamashita Kumiko
The up-tempo sound and catchy phrases of “EQUATOR KOMACHI DOKI” will stick in your head—another must-listen.
This track was specially written by singer-songwriter Kumiko Yamashita as a tie-in song for Kanebo Cosmetics.
Its lyrics liken the heat of summer—and the excitement of a summer romance—to the equator.
Highlights include a chorus that conveys a racing heartbeat through repeated onomatopoeia and a passionate vocal performance that makes full use of her husky voice.
Incidentally, “Equator Komachi” is a coined term in this song, thought to represent a beautiful woman in summer.
240 Million Eyes -Exotic Japan-Gō Hiromi
If asked to name Hiromi Go’s signature song, many people would likely choose this one.
“240 Million Eyes – Exotic Japan -” was released in February 1984 and was used as a campaign song for Japanese National Railways.
It was later covered by Mitsuhiro Oikawa as well.
Midsummer RainREBECCA
This is a song by Rebecca, a pioneering presence in the second band boom thanks to hits like “Friends.” Although the band is often associated with a brisk, fast-tempo, refreshing sound, this track stands out for its gentle atmosphere that evokes a hot, humid summer rain.
Its heavy mood conjures the clinging heat of summer, conveying a raw, unfiltered sense of suffering.
NOKKO’s impassioned vocals seem to hurl emotion directly at you, further accentuating the eerie air of a summer night and deepening the sense of sorrow.
miragekurisutaru kingu
The legendary rock band Crystal King.
The summer love song they created is Mirage.
In this track, a woman who keeps changing is likened to a mirage or heat haze.
It’s lovely how a summer romance is compared to weather phenomena unique to the season.
Another charm is the refreshing feel that comes from the high-tone vocals in the chorus.
The lyrics are passionate, yet listening leaves you with a clear, invigorated feeling.
There’s actually an R&B version as well, so be sure to give that a listen too.
Nancy of Summer ColorsHayami Yū
Yū Hayami is known as one of the “Hana no 82-nen-gumi” (the Flower Generation of 1982).
Her signature and biggest hit is “Natsuiro no Nancy.” Even if the title doesn’t ring a bell right away, you’ll probably recognize it as soon as you hear the chorus.
The chorus portrays the inner conflict of a woman who’s unsure whether she’s in love or not.
Try listening while empathizing with the way her heart wavers in love.
By the way, the “Nancy” in the title is actually Yū Hayami’s nickname.
Shake Hip!kome kome CLUB
This is a Kome Kome Club track distinguished by an energetic sound that blows away the summer heat.
It was also used in a sports drink commercial, in which the members appeared; the closing line, “Shinchintaisha ja!” (“It’s metabolism!”), became a major talking point at the time.
The lyrics include the French phrase “Mon amour” and depict the feelings of a man drawn to a woman.
With the signature performances of their large ensemble and a unique worldview that continues to captivate many fans, this song always feels fresh no matter when you listen to it.