[August Songs] Carefully selected masterpieces, classics, and the latest hits you’ll want to listen to in midsummer!

summer festivalWhiteberry

NatsuMatsuri

A song originally released in 1990 by the four-piece rock band JITTERIN’JINN, later covered by the five-member girls’ band Whiteberry.

It became Whiteberry’s third single and a major hit, also chosen as the theme song for the daytime drama “Fushigi na Hanashi.” As the title suggests, the lyrics depict scenes from a summer festival, and many listeners likely find themselves reminiscing about their youth and relating to the story.

The melody, with its touch of wistfulness that lets the narrative flow naturally, is also exceptional.

It’s a track that evokes a nostalgic mood when listened to in August, as summer draws to a close.

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Hoshino Takashi

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Emo-ish summerLucky Kilimanjaro

Lucky Kilimanjaro – Emo-ish Summer [Official Music Video]

A Lucky Kilimanjaro track that captures the unique sparkle and bittersweet feeling of summer has become a must-have on summer soundtracks.

Set to soothing synth tones and a dynamic beat, it vividly portrays both the irresistible exhilaration of a budding romance and the occasional pangs of anxiety, all against bright summer scenery.

Released as a single in July 2020, the song was later included on the album “DAILY BOP.” It was featured as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Netapare,” and spent three consecutive weeks in the TOP 5 on J-WAVE’s TOKIO HOT 100, earning love from many listeners.

Put it on during a summer drive or a fun time with friends, and it’s sure to lift your spirits even higher!

Youth and youth and youthaimyon

Seishun to Seishun to Seishun

A wonderful love ballad whose depiction of ordinary summer day-to-day scenes really sinks into your heart.

The lyrics Aimyong writes conjure up images in your mind right away, don’t they? This song is no exception: from the dream sequence at the very beginning to the scenes you probably experienced during summer vacation, everything stirs a sense of nostalgia and tightens your chest.

With bittersweet imagery and pure, heartfelt love woven into the lyrics, and her warm, gentle voice delivering them, it’s not exactly a summer hype song, but one you’ll want to listen to slowly while thinking of someone special.

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Hane Keisuke

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astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

It’s a memorable masterpiece with a melody that makes you want to hum as you look up at the night sky.

In this work woven by BUMP OF CHICKEN, the protagonist gazes at the stars while reflecting on their future, the anxieties they carry, and a faint glimmer of hope.

Even as they struggle with questions that have no answers, their determination to move forward is something that deeply resonates with listeners.

Released in March 2001 as their third single, it drew major attention as an insert song for the drama “Tentai Kansoku” that same year.

It’s also included on the album “jupiter.” When you’re lost or need a gentle push, listening under the starry sky will surely give you the courage to take a new step.

King of SummerKinKi Kids

KinKi Kids "King of Summer" Music Video

From the opening chant, this cheerful KinKi Kids number whisks you straight into summer mode.

It bursts with energetic charm that blows your worries away as brightly as the sun.

Grounded in Latin pop, the horn section and steel pans carry a tropical breeze and create an irresistible groove.

Released in June 2000, it captured many hearts as the theme song for the drama “Summer Snow,” starring Tsuyoshi Domoto.

It drew fresh attention again in 2023 as a McDonald’s commercial song.

It’s truly a track that cranks up that “I want to revel in summer!” feeling to the max.

I want to become the wind.THE BOOM

THE BOOM 'I Want to Be the Wind' Meihou Plateau Music Festival

“Summer’s here! It’s samba time!” That’s the kind of phrase that might just burst out when you hear this exhilarating number by THE BOOM.

Driven by Kazufumi Miyazawa’s desire to “create a Japanese samba,” the song’s rich tapestry of percussion instantly sweeps listeners into the joyful whirl of a carnival.

Its lyrics carry a straightforward, heartfelt message: no matter the hardships, happiness can be found as long as you’re with the one you love—and even amid harsh realities, life itself is something to celebrate.

Released in March 1995 as a single from the album Far Eastern Samba, the track was also featured in commercials for DC Card and J-PHONE, adding color to many people’s summers.

Put it on for a drive, outdoor fun, or any summer event, and it’s guaranteed to lift your spirits!

Season in the SunTUBE

Season in the Sun TUBE (HD quality)

This is TUBE’s quintessential summer anthem, packed with the faint wistfulness that comes as summer draws to a close and the radiant, sun-like energy that still blazes on.

Vivid scenes of the endless blue sea and bittersweet young love unfold in your mind, instantly transporting you to summer the moment you press play.

Released in April 1986 as the band’s third single, it was also included on that year’s album THE SEASON IN THE SUN.

You might recognize it from Kirin Beer and Suntory commercials.

Peaking at No.

6 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart, this track is sure to set your heart ablaze whenever you feel like reminiscing about days of youth gone by!