Get fired up for the hot season! Summer songs recommended for Gen Z

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā

Sambomaster / We’ve Gotta Do the Impossible MUSIC VIDEO

This song is packed with a fiery message that ignites the spirit to take on challenges.

It celebrates the courage to face any hardship head-on with positivity and the strength to keep believing in your own potential.

Characterized by a powerful rock sound that stirs the listener’s heart, it became familiar as the theme for Nissan’s Serena commercial in 2010 and was later chosen as an image song for the 2022 film “Cheer☆Dance.” Beloved by fans as a surefire crowd-pleaser at summer festivals, it has continued to be cherished by many as an anthem that gives you a push—when you hit a wall in club activities or exam studies, when you’re trying something new, or when you feel like giving up.

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

This song celebrates the heart of someone who keeps their inner passion burning.

The lyrics portray the impulse born from the pure wish to “become a hero,” and the courage to act driven by that feeling, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Released digitally in April 2020, it was featured in Darya’s “Palty Coloring” commercial, and later adopted as a JRA commercial song in 2025.

It was also chosen as the theme for a dance project supporting high school dance teams across Japan who lost opportunities to perform during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving courage to many young people.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced feel makes it especially appealing to listen to in the summer.

Immoral SummerNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Immoral Summer” Music Video

This is a Nogizaka46 track whose passionate sound evokes the blistering heat of summer, layered with a hint of illicit romantic impulse.

It’s included on their 39th single, “Same numbers,” released in July 2025.

The lyrics, where curiosity about a more mature world intersects with a dangerous pull that seems ready to cross the line of common sense, embody a bold worldview that only an Under track can express.

It’s guaranteed to lift your spirits when you want to break free from the everyday!

sun-fadedHatsuboshi Gakuen

Hatsuboshi Academy “Sunfaded” Official Music Video (Hatsuboshi Gakuen – Sunfaded)

This piece is sung by Hiro Shinozawa of Hatsuboshi Academy from the mobile game “Gakuen Idolmaster.” Following the previous song “Koukei” (“Scenery”), it was also produced by Hakushi Hasegawa.

Many listeners will likely feel nostalgic at the lyrics that capture the glitter and fragility of youth—the defenselessness of a summer day when you forgot to put on sunscreen, or a fleeting moment when the light looked like a shining ring.

The edgy alternative rock sound paired with her clear, translucent voice is a contrast that really hits home.

Give it a listen as the seasons change, and let your thoughts wander.

Let’s Go to the Sea (feat. PES)Lisa Halim

Let's Go to the Sea (feat. PES)

This surf music features a groovy, Latin-tinged rhythm that resonates comfortably alongside the sound of the waves.

Lisa Halim’s husky yet gentle vocals blend seamlessly with PES’s cool rap (formerly of RIP SLYME), vividly expressing a longing for the sea and memories of summer.

Produced by DJ HASEBE, the track was released as a digital-only single in October 2020 and drew attention after being picked up by major Spotify playlists.

It’s the perfect song for a seaside drive or reminiscing about summer.

Paradise BabyRIP SLYME

RIP SLYME – Rakuen Baby

This is a classic that lightly captures the sense of liberation and free-spirited romance you feel by the beach in summer.

Released in June 2002, the track blends hip-hop with bossa nova and samba rhythms, offering an innovative sound that transcends conventional genre boundaries.

The lyrics brightly depict the unique exhilaration of summer—sun-kissed skin, a longing for the ocean, and the flutter of seeing someone in a bikini.

It’s also featured on the album “TOKYO CLASSIC,” and became the first million-selling record in Japanese hip-hop.

Perfect for seaside drives, summer festivals, or relaxing by the pool.

Season in the SunTUBE

Tube Season in the sun

It’s an iconic TUBE song that sings about sparkling summer love and the bittersweet feeling as it nears its end.

The moment you hear it, the refreshing melody brings to mind blue seas and bright sunshine, and you can’t help but feel your heart leap.

Released in April 1986 as their third single, it topped the weekly rankings on the music show “The Best Ten” and became the track that changed the band’s destiny.

It has also long been beloved as a commercial song for Kirin Beer and Suntory.

Play it on a summer drive or at the beach with friends, and you’re sure to make unforgettable memories! It’s the perfect number to color a page of your youth, don’t you think?