Summer songs sung by idols: a roundup of classic hits about the sea and love

You are mine.Snow Man

Snow Man “You Are Mine” Music Video YouTube Ver.

A classic pop tune that captures the spark of a romance set in motion by a small trigger and makes you realize just how special the other person is.

Chosen as the theme song for the drama “Aoshima-kun wa Ijiwaru,” starring Shota Watanabe, it drew significant attention.

Released in July 2024 as the single “BREAKOUT / Kimi wa Boku no Mono,” it debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and is also included on the best-of album “THE BEST 2020-2025.” If you want to relive the glittering feelings at the start of love or reaffirm your feelings for someone important, you’re sure to relate when you listen.

OmoidamaKanjani∞

Omoidama / Kanjani Eight “Netto Koshien” Theme Song by Itaru Ino (ITARU INO) with Lyrics [Full]

This is the ultimate “summer fight song” that most people would agree on—Kanjani Eight’s heart-pounding anthem! Released in July 2014 as Kanjani Eight’s 28th single, it served as the theme song for “Netto Koshien” and moved countless listeners.

The lyrics directly channel the “dreams” and “passion” collected from about 6,000 high school students nationwide, powerfully conveying the feelings poured into every pitch alongside teammates.

With robust vocals and a refreshing brass band sound, it gives listeners a strong push forward—a song that fills you with courage and hope.

Perfect for anyone facing a crucial moment or when you want your youthful sweat to shine.

Ponytail and ScrunchieAKB48

[MV full] Ponytail to Shushu / AKB48 [Official]

It’s a track brimming with refreshing energy that instantly evokes the arrival of summer! You can almost picture a ponytailed girl dashing by, and the lyrics—like snapshots of a bittersweet first love and a radiant moment of youth—tickle the heart.

The up-tempo arrangement and catchy chorus make it a true summer anthem.

Released in May 2010 as AKB48’s 16th major single, it sold 513,000 copies in its first week—an achievement that, at the time, marked the first such feat by a female idol group in about nine and a half years.

It was also used as the ending theme for NTV’s “Naruhodo! High School.” The liberating visuals filmed in Guam are memorable too, perfect for seaside drives and summer leisure.

Put it on when you want to bask in youthful memories, and you’re sure to have a wonderful time!

By the SeashoreMaison book girl

Maison book girl / By the Seaside / MV

Among sea-themed songs, there is one that stands out for its unique sense of weightlessness and profound worldview.

Crafted by Maison book girl, the track features intricately shifting time signatures that ebb and flow like waves, woven together with elements of electronica and post-rock.

The lyrics poetically depict emotions like the bittersweet sorrow one might feel on the ocean floor and the hopeful sensation of swimming through vast waters, resonating deeply with listeners.

This piece is included on the album “Children of the Sea and the Universe,” released in December 2019.

It’s also noteworthy that the music video—created as part of an Amazon Prime Video project—incorporates ideas from the members themselves.

It’s the perfect number for moments when you want to quietly lose yourself in sentiment by the seaside, or entrust ineffable feelings to music on a late night.

It’s also recommended for those who want to experience experimental, highly artistic music that transcends the conventional boundaries of idol pop.

Barefoot SummerNogizaka 46

Nogizaka46 “Hadashi de Summer”

Released in July 2016 by Nogizaka46, this track features an exhilarating sound that heralds the arrival of summer and drew attention for being Asuka Saito’s first time in the center position.

In the lyrics, the anticipation for a special summer unlike any other, and the protagonist’s growing feelings as he’s captivated and playfully tossed about by the free-spirited “you,” are depicted alongside sparkling scenes.

Its brilliance makes you feel like you can’t help but dash off together.

The single topped the Oricon weekly rankings and was certified Million in November 2017.

It’s sure to be the perfect BGM for a seaside drive in summer or a carefree walk along the beach!

Sea Breeze and SelfishnessHinatazaka46

Hinatazaka46 “Sea Breeze and Selfishness” MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a perfect summer track released by Hinatazaka46 in May 2025.

The song portrays a free-spirited girl and the boy who, despite being tossed around by her whims, harbors deep affection for her, all set against the glittering backdrop of a seaside summer.

While he’s bewildered by her selfish behavior, he ultimately can’t help but be drawn to her charm—feelings that are sure to tickle the listener’s heart.

Included as a coupling track on the single “Love yourself!,” it features an arrangement that makes effective use of acoustic guitar and percussion, heightening that resort-like vibe.

It’s ideal BGM for a summer drive, and if you play it while spending time by the ocean, it will make the atmosphere even more delightful.

Sweet and slightly bittersweet, it’s a song you’ll want to hear when you want to immerse yourself in the fleeting romance of summer.

Seaside BalconyMatsuda Seiko

Seaside Balcony

From its sparkling intro, this quintessential summer song by Seiko Matsuda instantly evokes the season! Lyricist Takashi Matsumoto weaves a sweet-and-sour love story on a seaside balcony.

The protagonist’s fluttering heart and radiant moments with a special someone are vividly portrayed through the refreshing melody by Kureta Keiko (Yumi Matsutoya) and Seiko’s crystalline vocals.

Released in April 1982 as her 10th single and included on the album “Pineapple,” it became beloved as the Shiseido “Elixir” commercial song and won the Gold Prize at that year’s Japan Record Awards—a track that truly colored its era.

Perfect not only as BGM for a coastal drive, but also when you want to revel in the anticipation of sweet romance or sink into a romantic mood.

Listening to it, you can almost see the blue sea and sky unfolding before your eyes.