Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke! Recommended summer songs for people in their 40s [2026]
For those in their 40s today, what Japanese summer songs come to mind?
Many of you probably think right away of hit songs from the 1990s, the era when CDs sold the most in Japan.
In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of summer tracks recommended for people in their 40s.
Listening to these songs will likely bring back memories and feelings from back then, and the songs we’re about to introduce might just give you a warm sense of nostalgia.
Use them as a reference for your driving playlist or karaoke selections!
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Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke!! Summer songs recommended for people in their 40s [2026] (71–80)
Yeah! Super Holiday!Matsuura Aya
One of Aya Matsuura’s signature songs, known for her trademark sun-bright smile.
Just hearing the intro may give some listeners the feeling that their hearts are starting to dance.
Its brilliantly radiant melody that shoots straight through, combined with an irresistibly upbeat rhythm that gets your body moving, vividly paints sparkling scenes of summer.
Released as a single in May 2002, the track was later included on the album “Aya Matsuura Best 1.” Perfect for summer outings, it’s also a song brimming with charm that can instantly give you a boost on days when you’re feeling a bit low.
LIFEkimaguren
Here’s a track that pairs perfectly with the summer sun—just listening to it makes your heart dance.
Performed by Kimaguren, this piece brims with upbeat energy, blending the light tones of acoustic guitar with straightforward lyrics that cheer you on to “live true to yourself!” Released in May 2008, the single became their first to break into the top 20 on the Oricon charts.
It was even used as a TV theme song, in commercials, and as a train station approach melody.
It’s ideal as background music for summer drives, barbecues, or days by the sea—and when you’re tackling a new challenge or feeling a bit down, it just might give you the courage you need.
Beautiful finsupittsu
The work that drew major attention as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine is by Spitz.
This piece resonates with a theme that evokes a palpable sense of hope and the brilliance of life amid transience.
Spitz’s characteristically transparent melodies and Masamune Kusano’s gentle vocals feel as if they carry the sparkle of summer and the pleasant touch of a sea breeze.
Released in April 2023 as Spitz’s 46th single, the song topped the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
It’s a perfect pick for feeling the wind on a summer drive, or for singing at karaoke when you want to give voice to a slightly bittersweet yet forward-looking mood!
Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke! Summer songs recommended for people in their 40s [2026] (81–90)
BOYS & GIRLSHamasaki Ayumi
“BOYS & GIRLS” is Ayumi Hamasaki’s ninth single, released in 1999, and it enjoyed fervent support from women in their 20s at the time.
With this song, she received her first Excellence Award at the 41st Japan Record Awards and made her debut appearance on the 50th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen.
Its catchy melody is one many people in their 40s can still find themselves humming even after all these years.
The sparkling sound, reminiscent of summer sunshine, is perfect for a drive! It not only evokes nostalgia for those in their 40s, but also rekindles the feeling of wanting to fully enjoy summer—just like back then.
A Little Love SongMONGOL800
A straightforward love song by MONGOL800, a rock band from Okinawa.
Its pure lyrics remind us just how precious the people close to us truly are, touching the hearts of many.
Released in September 2001 and included on the album MESSAGE, which sold over 2.8 million copies, the song spent 14 consecutive weeks at No.
2 on the Oricon karaoke chart.
Its enduring popularity is evident in its use as the ending theme for the TV anime Teasing Master Takagi-san and as a motif for a 2019 film.
Put it on as driving music, and you’ll find yourself singing along under the blue sky.
HIGH PRESSURET.M.Revolution
A song with a sparkling sound and an uplifting message.
Its powerful yet soaring vocals blend beautifully with electronic elements.
Recorded in July 1997, this track was featured in a Lotte “Sweetie Ice” commercial and reached No.
4 on the Oricon weekly singles chart.
It was also used as the opening theme for the Taiwan/China versions of the TBS anime B’T-X.
A perfect summer tune for those who want to enjoy the hot season to the fullest or are looking for a spark to start a new romance.
Slow & EasyHirai Dai
This track features a tropical vibe, evoking a pleasant sea breeze and warm sunlight.
The warm tone of the acoustic guitar blends beautifully with Dai Hirai’s gentle vocals.
The lyrics advocate the importance of living slowly in today’s society, soothing the hearts of those who lead busy lives.
Released in May 2015 as the title track of the album “Slow & Easy,” it was also used in the Sumitomo Forestry commercial for the “Sakimachi Arai-Minami Sustaina Town.” It’s a perfect song for summer drives, trips to and from the beach, or for unwinding when you want to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.