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Lovely summer song

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!

Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke! Summer songs recommended for people in their 40s [2026] (101–110)

summer festivalJITTERIN’JINN

Summer Festival – Whiteberry (Full)
summer festivalJITTERIN'JINN

The moment it starts playing, you can feel summer—“Natsu Matsuri,” the quintessential summer tune.

Many people probably think of Whiteberry’s cover, but the original was released by JITTERIN’JINN in 1990.

It’s beloved not only by those of that generation but by others as well.

The song portrays a fleeting crush, drawing you into a haze that stirs faint yet unmistakable memories.

I’m sure some of you have played it as BGM before or after a date or sung it at karaoke.

It brings back sweet, slightly bittersweet memories, doesn’t it?

KEI
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NatsuneGLAY

GLAY, who are also widely supported by people in their 40s, released this song as their 34th single in 2006, and it was used as the theme for the show “Koisuru Hanikami!” Starting with a cool, refreshing intro, it features heartrending lyrics and striking visuals in the artwork and music video.

It’s a gem of a ballad that showcases the band’s delicate side.

Hirakawa Masako (Bōkarisuto: Sakata Mizumako)
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BOYS & GIRLSHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki / Boys & Girls (Short Ver.)
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.

SAKI
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PassionUA

UA’s 1996 song “Jounetsu” (Passion) is striking for its sweetness and comfort reminiscent of club music.

Set to a laid-back melody, it delicately yet passionately portrays a relationship with someone precious that can never return to what it once was.

The song has been covered by many artists, including Kumi Koda and JUJU, and its appeal hasn’t faded with time.

With a mood that can revive bittersweet memories of summer, it’s a perfect listen when you want to sink into your summer reminiscences.

SAKI
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In conclusion

I introduced some Japanese summer songs recommended for people in their 40s.

Did any nostalgic track bring back memories you’d nearly forgotten? Summer songs tend to be poppy and upbeat, so just listening to them can lift your spirits.

The recent summer heat is extreme, but let’s keep our spirits up by listening to some great summer tunes!