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 (1–10)
ONLY YOUYoshikawa Koji
It’s a track by Koji Kikkawa that vividly colored the summers of the ’90s.
The energetic rock sound paired with a slightly wistful melody leaves a strong impression.
The hidden loneliness and yearning for love resonate directly with listeners through his powerful vocals.
This piece is included on the 1991 album “LUNATIC LUNACY.” Passionate yet tinged with sadness, it’s a song that will surely sink into your heart when you listen to it on a summer drive or at twilight.
MARIAMiyamoto Eiji
Sung by Eiji Miyamoto, this track perfectly bottles the essence of a 1990s summer.
Released as a single in August 1993, it’s a refreshing pop-rock number with sparkling melodies and an invigorating sound.
The lyrics evoke a sense of freedom under the dazzling sun and paint lively scenes of resort getaways.
Give it a listen as a driving soundtrack or whenever you want to relive those summers of the past—you’re sure to feel uplifted.
The Sun Made Me Do It ~Misty Lady~Gō Hiromi
A passionate and romantic number perfect for the season of dazzling sunshine.
It sings of a summer romance sparked by an instant infatuation with a mysterious woman, set to an uptempo yet slightly wistful melody.
The sophisticated sound, tinged with R&B and soul, enhances its grown-up allure.
This track is included on Hiromi Go’s 1995 album “I miss you—Aitakute Shikatanai.” Put it on when you want to indulge in a slightly more mature mood for love, and your heart is sure to race.
SUN SUN SUN ’95Urufuruzu
This song features a bright melody reminiscent of the summer sun and uplifting lyrics.
It was released in July 1995 as Ulfuls’ eighth single.
It briskly portrays romance in the scorching heat and the passion of summer, making it even more enjoyable to listen to on hot days.
The super high-energy, rock ’n’ roll vibe is fantastic! I think it’s perfect for getting pumped up with friends at the beach or by the pool.
An Uncompromising SummerTUBE
It’s a refreshing track from TUBE, a band synonymous with Japanese summers.
The song paints shimmering summertime scenes and a sweet, bittersweet romance that sets listeners’ hearts ablaze.
Its appeal lies in an up-tempo beat and a catchy melody you’ll find yourself humming after just one listen.
Released in April 1995 as their 21st single, it was used as the ending theme for TBS’s music program COUNT DOWN TV.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, and an album bearing the same title was released in June of that year.
It’s the perfect number for summer drives or lively times with friends.
Dance with MemoriesYoshikawa Koji
It’s a song by Koji Kikkawa whose passionate vocals strike straight to the heart.
Released on his 1992 album “Shyness Overdrive,” the track was written and composed by Kikkawa himself.
The lyrics, which reflect on bygone summer days and a beloved person from that time, resonate deeply with listeners.
Amid the bustle of the city, the blazing memories of a past romance suddenly come rushing back.
Those bittersweet scenes are delivered on a powerful soundscape.
Why not give it a listen on a summer evening, when you’re in a slightly sentimental mood?
I love the you who never gives up.Kanno Miho
This is a song by Miho Kanno that powerfully affirms “you,” who keep chasing your dreams without giving up, no matter what others say.
Released in June 1996 as her third single, it reached a peak position of 56 on the Oricon chart.
Its warm message—believing in and supporting those who keep striving with unwavering effort—resonates deeply.
When you’re taking on a challenge, it’s sure to gently give you a push forward.