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] (51–60)
July 1stHamasaki Ayumi
This is Ayumi Hamasaki’s summer anthem, distinguished by a sparkling, dazzling sound that seems to herald the arrival of summer.
Under the blue sky, the protagonist’s exhilaration as they set out to meet their beloved and their straightforward emotions brimming with hope for the future set listeners’ hearts free.
The song appears on the single “H,” released in July 2002, which became the only million-selling single of that year.
It was also widely known as the theme song for KOSÉ’s VISÉE commercial.
It’s a track you’ll want to play during summer drives or events when you want to boost your mood to the max.
Ultra SoulB’z
With his overwhelming vocal prowess, Koshi Inaba has won widespread popularity, while guitarist Takahiro Matsumoto is highly acclaimed both in Japan and abroad.
The rock duo they form, B’z, has become so famous that they hardly need an introduction.
Among their songs, “ultra soul,” released in 2001, was a massive hit, topping the Oricon charts for two consecutive weeks.
Inaba’s exhilarating vocals and Matsumoto’s energetic guitar make it a perfect fit for summer.
Here’s hoping this song helps you enjoy the season to the fullest!
Sweet EmotionAikawa Nanase
Known as one of Nanase Aikawa’s signature songs, this track is characterized by her powerful vocals and melodious sound.
Released in May 1999 and adopted as a radio campaign song, it passionately sings of a scorching love that embraces the night.
Aikawa’s characteristically fervent voice vividly captures the sultry heat of summer nights.
It’s perfect as driving BGM, too—listening with the windows down and the wind in your face might bring back pleasant summer memories.
It’s also a surefire crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
I can see you againKetsumeishi
We also recommend Mata Kimi ni Aeru, which lets you soak up a vacation vibe.
It’s a track released by the hip-hop unit Ketsumeishi, and it’s known as the song from ANESSA’s commercial featuring Yuri Ebihara sprinting along the beach.
The lyrics depict the feelings of a man who falls in love with a captivating woman on a beach setting.
Combined with its reggae sound and breezy vocals, it’s a piece that will boost your mood as you head out.
With its emphasis on lower tones, it also seems like a song that’s relatively easy to sing.
Perfect for driving BGM and karaoke!! Recommended summer songs for people in their 40s [2026] (61–70)
Harmony at Summer’s EndInoue Yosui & Anzen Chitai
The timeless classic “Harmony at Summer’s End” by Yosui Inoue and Anzen Chitai.
It was first performed live at Jingu Stadium and released in 1986.
For those of that generation, it probably hits right on the mark! Although it’s a song about the end of a romance, its comforting melody somehow gives you a sense of positivity and warmth.
What a wonderful duet.
It heightens the romantic mood on a drive, and I bet many people just can’t help wanting to belt it out at karaoke.
A summer song where that miraculous harmony truly shines.
Whenever I listen, it brings tears to my eyes and fills me with kindness.
You’re my sunshineAmuro Namie
Let me introduce a dance track that everyone can get hyped with: “You’re my sunshine.” Produced by Tetsuya Komuro and performed by Namie Amuro, it features a refreshing, synth-driven sound that’s perfect for summer.
The lyrics depict the joy of a summer romance, adding a romantic vibe when you listen.
It’s great for boosting your mood on a drive, and just as fun to sing and dance to at karaoke.
Goldfinger 99′Gō Hiromi
This “GOLDFINGER ’99,” sung by Hiromi Go, is the Japanese cover of Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ la Vida Loca.” The hot Latin vibe, the comical lyrics, and Hiromi Go’s persona matched perfectly, making it hugely popular.
It’s truly a summer anthem—you hear it all the time when the season comes around.
