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)
Lonely Tropical FishWink
It’s one of Wink’s signature songs, which also won the Japan Record Award, and their fifth single, released in 1989.
The duo’s “not-smiling” image really sticks in your memory, doesn’t it? It’s a curious track with a steady, solid beat yet a fluffy, floating feel that becomes addictive the more you listen.
It poignantly portrays waiting at a pool for the man you’re interested in.
The sway of the waves and the resonant sounds give it a playful touch, calling to mind a special summer.
And that distinctly mature 80s vibe is absolutely irresistible!
Classic summer hits from the nostalgic '80s: Summer songs roundup (51–60)
light blue wagonhaifaisetto
A Hi-Fi Set song that feels like vivid memories overflowing from a single car you spot on a summer highway.
Its urbane, sophisticated sound is soothing, and it paints a scene where a license plate matching your hometown—glimpsed on the way to the sea—overlaps with days gone by.
Personal memories—like the sweet-and-sour taste of first love, the slightly bittersweet view of a graduation ceremony, and a wedding invitation from a friend—stir back to life in each listener’s heart.
Junko Yamamoto’s clear soprano deepens the nostalgia even further.
The album Pasadena Park, which opened with this track on side A, was released in February 1984 and peaked at No.
7 on the Oricon LP chart.
It was also released as a single in May of the same year.
It’s the perfect number for a summer drive, as if you could meet a slightly younger version of yourself.
The season of bare feetMatsuda Seiko
Isn’t this the very song that launched Seiko’s brilliant career brimming with a fresh charm that instantly captivates the listener? In the lyrics, scenes like a white yacht drawing near as if heralding the arrival of summer, and the flutter of first love, are depicted so vividly you can almost see them unfolding before your eyes.
Released in April 1980 as her debut single, the track also became widely known as the theme for Shiseido’s “Ekubo” commercial.
There’s even the story that, although she failed the audition because she couldn’t make dimples, she still won the commercial song thanks to her singing—a testament to her talent, without a doubt.
It’s also included on her first album, “SQUALL.” Give it a listen when you want to feel the refreshing breeze of summer or to rekindle the sweet, bittersweet memories of youth.
Rainy WednesdayOhtaki Eiichi
One of Eiichi Ohtaki’s signature songs, where the gentle, soaking rain conveys the feel of summer.
You can picture yourself quietly gazing at the sea with someone dear, beside a battered old Volkswagen.
Before you know it, as you listen, you’re filled with a sentimental longing for the passing seasons.
The track was included on the classic 1981 album “A LONG VACATION,” and was later released as a single in May 1982.
With its clear, transparent vocals and wistful melody that sinks into the heart, it’s a perfect number for late summer.
Shiori’s ThemeSazan Ōrusutāzu
A timeless summer classic that sings of bittersweet feelings for a single girl.
Released in July 1981 as Southern All Stars’ third single, this piece resonates with delicate emotional expression and gentle tones.
Featured on numerous releases, including the album “Stereo Taiyozoku,” it has been cherished for decades.
Put it on during a drive, and the summer breeze will feel even more pleasant.
It’s the perfect song for those in love at summer’s end or anyone nostalgic for their youth—why not lose yourself in memories of those days while you listen?
Monroe WalkMinami Yoshitaka
This single was released in 1979, but a cover version by Hiromi Go in 1980—retitled “Sexy You”—became an even bigger hit.
It carries a subtly seductive mood with a touch of the original song’s Latin flavor.
With lyrics by Etsuko Kisugi, it’s a mature love song about a summer romance, portraying the allure and confusion of being drawn to someone suggestive yet just out of reach.
It might resonate with the feelings of falling for an older woman.
Yoshitaka Minami’s sexy vocals are really cool.
Runnerbakufū suranpu
Bakufu Slump’s 12th single, released in 1988.
It became a smash hit, selling 340,000 copies, and served as the catalyst for the band’s breakthrough—one of their signature songs.
At the time of their debut, they were highly regarded by music fans for the band’s strong musicianship and Sunplaza Nakano-kun’s powerful vocals, but their strong comic flair gave them the image of a problem-child band.
With this song, however, they broke into mainstream households as a popular band.
Overheated—and that’s exactly what makes it irresistible! A classic youth anthem that represents Japan.