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Nostalgic Songs Perfect as Driving BGM for People in Their 40s

Many of us probably feel that music is essential when going for a drive! Up-tempo songs that lift your spirits are perfect for the highway, while smoother, more mature tracks suit nighttime drives.

You want to choose the ideal BGM depending on when you’re going, who you’re with, and your destination.

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended driving songs especially for people in their 40s.

We’ve picked tracks by artists that will be familiar to those in their 40s, so find some tunes to accompany your next drive.

[For people in their 40s] Nostalgic songs perfect as driving BGM (31–40)

BANG! BANG! Vacation!SMAP

SMAP – BANG! BANG! Vacation! (MV)
BANG! BANG! Vacation!SMAP

The perfect BGM for fully enjoying summer is SMAP’s “BANG! BANG! Vacation!” Released in 2005 alongside the album “SAMPLE BANG!”, it was used as a theme song for sports broadcasts.

For many in their 40s—the exact SMAP generation—this might be an indispensable summer anthem.

The lyrics comically portray lazing around in summer and the attitude of “whatever’s going on, let’s just have fun!” It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both drives and karaoke!

My SummerMoritaka Chisato

Chisato Moritaka “My Summer” (PV)
My SummerMoritaka Chisato

“My Summer” by Chisato Moritaka is a song about planning a trip to Okinawa.

Released in 1993, it’s also known as the campaign song for ANA’s Okinawa promotion.

The trigger for the Okinawa trip is a breakup with her boyfriend.

The lyrics express her determination to shake off the heartbreak by going to Okinawa with friends and having an absolute blast.

With its refreshing, summery, and uplifting melody, it’s the perfect BGM for travel.

Be sure to take it along for your summer outings and trips.

Sunny day sundaySENTIMENTAL:BUS

Sunny Day Sunday is the perfect song for a hot summer day, especially one that’s sweltering.

It’s a track released by Sentimental Bus and was used in a Pocari Sweat commercial.

The lyrics depict someone absorbed in an activity under the blazing sun.

Thanks to its theme and its fast-paced, driving sound, it’s also beloved as a baseball cheering song.

Since it’s sung quite fast, you might need some tips if you want to tackle it at karaoke.

Romantic Flightkome kome CLUB

Kome Kome Club – Roman Hikō (All Night Fuji 1987)
Romantic Flightkome kome CLUB

Kome Kome Club has produced many songs that epitomize the 1980s.

When it comes to their signature tracks, “Roman Hikō” likely comes to mind.

The song depicts breaking free from everyday stress and heading off on vacation.

Because of that theme, it was used as the campaign song for JAL’s Okinawa travel promotions.

Whether you listen to it in the car or sing it at karaoke, you’ll feel a liberating, vacation-like vibe.

By the way, if you sing it at karaoke, try paying attention to the points where the key shifts up and down.

astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN’s “Tentai Kansoku” is a song you’ll want to listen to while reminiscing about the sweet and bittersweet summer romances of your youth.

Released in 2001, this track was also used as an insert song for a drama of the same title.

Its melody, full of drive and freshness, and lyrics that capture feelings you wanted to convey but couldn’t, will tug at your heart.

It’s a well-known and popular song, making it perfect for karaoke.

Give it a sing or a listen while you think back on young love.