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] (81–90)
Embracing SummerTUBE
With a sound that evokes clear blue skies and a shining sun, this is a quintessential summer song from TUBE.
It conveys a love so intense it keeps you awake at night, expressed through passionate lyrics and melody.
The protagonist’s once-in-a-lifetime feelings are sure to stir memories of bittersweet love that many have experienced.
Released in May 1994, this smash hit topped the Oricon charts and sold 940,000 copies.
It was also featured in a Toyota Corolla Ceres commercial and has become a karaoke staple loved by many.
It’s the perfect track to share with close friends or colleagues as you reminisce and look back together on life’s milestones.
Week EndHoshino Gen
A pop tune by Gen Hoshino that captures the sense of freedom and release of the weekend.
With its shimmering horn section and groove-laden sound, it naturally draws listeners onto the dance floor.
Included on the album “YELLOW DANCER,” released in December 2015, it was also used as the theme song for Fuji TV’s Mezamashi Doyobi starting in October of the same year.
While depicting emotions that shift with the changing seasons, it gently reminds us of the importance of stepping out of the everyday to express our true selves.
It’s a perfect track to brighten your mood during a long-weekend drive or a day out.
WINDING ROADAyaka × Kobukuro
A song by Ayaka and Kobukuro that touched many hearts as the theme for the Nissan Cube commercial.
With the gentle harmonies of the three singers, it tenderly expresses the “hope for dreams” deep in our hearts and the “positive step toward tomorrow.” Life isn’t linear; it’s more like a journey that turns corners and faces unexpected walls.
But when you find light at the end of the road, this song gives you the courage to take that step without hesitation.
Since its release in February 2007, it has been included on the albums Sing to the Sky and ALL SINGLES BEST 2, and was also performed at the 58th NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
It’s a perfect track for long drives or moments when you’re about to take a new step forward.
I hope it’s sunny.DREAMS COME TRUE
A gentle, lyrical song that weaves together childhood memories and growth.
Released by DREAMS COME TRUE in October 1992, this piece captured the hearts of many as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Hirari.
Warm memories of time spent with family in nature—like hiking in the mountains and playing in streams—are portrayed over a calm melody.
The transition from being a child supported by her father to becoming independent and supporting her own family now is especially striking.
Included on the album The Swinging Star, the song evokes the landscapes of Miwa Yoshida’s hometown, Ikeda in Hokkaido, and is perfect for a springtime drive, sure to lift your spirits.
Paradise BabyRIP SLYME
Released in 2002, Rakuen Baby is a bright hip-hop tune by RIP SLYME, a group with the unusual lineup of two MCs and one DJ.
The cheerful raps that conjure up a dazzling beach will have your body moving before you know it! The lyrics boldly express the thrill of a summer romance, adding an instant boost to your mood.
It sounds like it would be perfect for a seaside barbecue, too!
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
Tamio Okuda brings us the perfect song for a season when a refreshing breeze flows gently by.
Set to a lively rhythm and expansive melody, this piece captures the feeling of racing down a free, unrestricted road, brimming with liberation and positivity.
Released in June 1996, it reached No.
4 on the Oricon weekly charts and stayed on the charts for 16 weeks.
It was also used in a Nissan commercial and as a TV program theme, winning fans across generations.
Whether you’re driving enveloped in the warmth of spring or setting out on a new path, this song will be a reassuring companion.
Perfect for drive playlists and karaoke! Summer songs recommended for people in their 40s [2026] (91–100)
BLUE BIRDHamasaki Ayumi
A singer-songwriter who enjoyed overwhelming popularity to the point of being called a high school girls’ icon, Ayumi Hamasaki has had a major impact on society beyond music, influencing makeup and fashion as well.
Her 40th single, “BLUE BIRD,” used as the CM song for Zespri Gold Kiwifruit, is memorable for its opening that begins with a clear, translucent sound.
The arrangement progresses from a catchy B melody into a liberating chorus, making it perfect for gradually lifting your mood while driving.
It’s a refreshing, exhilarating pop tune with a crisp, invigorating ensemble.
