1990s J-Pop to listen to in summer: classic and hit summer songs
The 1990s were a time when million-selling hit songs kept coming one after another, and music clearly served as a common topic across generations.
Naturally, there were plenty of summer-themed hits as well.
In this article, we’ve picked out 90s summer songs that have continued to be loved across eras—not only by those who listened to them in real time back then, but also to the extent that people of all ages have probably heard them at least once.
Younger music fans might even discover, “So this song was sung by this artist?” Be sure to check them out!
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90s J-Pop to listen to in summer: Classic and hit summer songs (21–30)
Midsummer MiracleTHE BOOM
A song distinguished by its unique sound that fuses Okinawan music with ska rhythms.
THE BOOM released it in 1993 as their 12th single.
Its beautiful melody and poetic lyrics are captivating, depicting a story of lovers whose strong love helps them overcome hardships.
It’s striking how it juxtaposes contrasting images—while the city bustles with festivity, there are also people in mourning clothes and children.
With its borderless, cosmopolitan vibe, this track is perfect for listening by the seaside on a hot summer day.
OverDriveJUDY AND MARY
Known by the abbreviations JudyMari and JAM, this is the seventh single by the four-piece rock band JUDY AND MARY, who released numerous hits including Sobakasu (Freckles).
In addition to being used in a commercial for the Toyota Corolla Touring Wagon, it’s a refreshing rock tune with multiple tie-ins.
The arrangement—featuring a cute vocal tone and melody, and an ensemble that weaves distinctive phrasing into its pop sensibility—captures the essence of early JUDY AND MARY and really lifts your spirits.
It’s a song that evokes cloudless blue skies—perfect for listening to on a summer trip.
1990s J-Pop to Listen to in Summer: Classic and Hit Summer Songs (31–40)
blue carsupittsu
Give it a listen first thing on a sunny summer morning.
It’s a song by Spitz, the popular band known for signature tracks like “Sora no Tobikata” and “Robinson.” Released in March 2006 as their 25th single, its lyrics, which capture the dynamics of a romantic relationship, leave a strong impression and express a leap into a new future.
Blending Masamune Kusano’s distinctive worldview with a beautiful melody, it’s a track that fuses pop and rock.
Be sure to experience this wonderful music for yourself.
Cold KissICE BOX
As the group’s name suggests, ICE BOX is a music unit formed for a limited time as part of a collaboration with the frozen treats manufactured and sold by Morinaga & Co.
Their debut single, “Tsumetai Kiss” (Cold Kiss), also drew attention for its Reiwa Year One version released when they resumed activities in 2019.
Opening straight from the chorus, the refreshing arrangement—enhanced by emotional choral work—adds color to the heat of summer.
It’s a clear, luminous pop tune marked by a catchy melody and sentimental lyrics.
Midsummer FruitSazan Ōrusutāzu
When you think of Southern [All Stars], you probably picture a band with a string of summer hits.
It’s hard to pick just one song, but this time I’d like to highlight the beloved classic Manatsu no Kajitsu (Mid-summer Fruit).
Released in 1990, it not only became a massive hit but also won three awards at the 32nd Japan Record Awards, and has continued to be covered by many artists—truly a gem of a song.
It also served as the theme song for the film Inamura Jane, directed by the band’s frontman, Keisuke Kuwata, so many listeners may be reminded of the movie when they hear it.
It’s a heart-wrenching ballad that feels like recalling the unforgettable scenes of a distant summer day.
Be sure to take your time with the lyrics as well—Kuwata’s delicate choice of words is superb.
HIGH PRESSURET.M.Revolution
Now widely known as a stoic, muscular persona and active as both a voice actor and an actor, Takanori Nishikawa’s solo project T.M.Revolution is a household name.
Speaking of T.M.Revolution’s summer songs, you can’t leave out “HIGH PRESSURE,” released in 1997.
With playful lyrics, the dazzling sound characteristic of Daisuke Asakura, and a catchy melody delivered by Nishikawa’s powerful vocals, it’s an undeniable classic.
The music video—shot on an elaborate set with an unforgettable impact—also became a hot topic at the time.
Incidentally, the winter anthem “WHITE BREATH” was released the same year.
It really drives home just how unstoppable T.M.Revolution was during that period.
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
A classic song with a refreshing vibe that evokes the liberating feeling of summer.
It’s a track by singer-songwriter Tamio Okuda, released in June 1996 as his sixth single.
It was also featured in a Nissan ‘Wingroad’ commercial.
The lyrics, which celebrate a free-spirited journey unconstrained by calendars or destinations, leave a strong impression.
For this reason, it’s often used as background music in variety travel shows.
It’s a perfect song for a weekend drive.