Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. Timeless J-pop summertime anthems perfect for summer guys and summer girls.
What kind of songs do you feel like listening to in the summer? I bet many of you want to turn up the energy with upbeat, summery tracks that get you hyped.
On the other hand, it’s also nice to enjoy songs with a calmer, chill vibe and immerse yourself in the world of the lyrics.
In this article, we’ve gathered a wide range of songs with different moods that are perfect for summer.
You’re sure to find something you want to listen to.
These are summer tunes we can recommend for any situation—beach trips, drives, barbecues, and more—so be sure to check them out to the end!
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Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. Essential J‑POP standard summer tunes perfect for summer guys and summer girls (111–120)
FlowerKinKi Kids
KinKi Kids is an idol duo whose members each have a strong individual presence, not only as a group but also in music, on stage, and in TV dramas.
Their 7th single, “Flower,” which was chosen as the campaign song for ANA’s ’99 Paradise Okinawa, became a massive hit, marking their fourth million-selling release.
Its positive message and upbeat, off-beat rhythm with a hint of reggae bring a refreshing breeze to the heat of summer.
With fresh, lingering vocals, it’s a pop tune that makes you want to sway along.
It’s damp (feat. Aizawa & Shikiura Sōgo)MAISONdes
MAISONdes is a project themed around an apartment where artists gather, like Tokiwa-so.
In September 2023, they released “Shimeppoi ne,” featuring Aizawa and Shikiura Sogo.
The song was chosen as the image song for the drama Reset Button, created by manga artist and illustrator Tina Yamashina.
The lyrics, which evoke the clammy dampness of summer sweat, are particularly striking.
The deliberately off-kilter piano tones in the intro also leave a strong impression.
Flowers blooming in the night skyMEGARYU
MEGARYU is a reggae duo that captivates fans with the chemistry born from the combination of a vocalist and a rhymer.
“Flowers Blooming in the Night Sky,” included on their first album, Updraft, features sentimental lyrics that evoke the end of summer and truly move the heart.
The contrast between the intricately rhymed rap and the beautiful, harmonious melody gently envelops the atmosphere in your car while driving.
It’s a nostalgic, feel-good number that you can’t help but hum along to.
Squid SUMMERORANGE RANGE
ORANGE RANGE is a five-member rock band that drew attention even before their major-label debut, attracting as many as 800 people to their shows back in their high school days.
Their 16th single, “Ika SUMMER,” featured in the Kanebo Cosmetics ALLIE commercial, amps up the energy with a ska-punk arrangement that incorporates a brass section.
The rapid-fire melodies delivered by the three MCs feel perfectly suited to the liberating vibe of summer.
It’s a lively, summer-ready upper tune that’s sure to hype you up as background music for a day out or get everyone going at karaoke.
Summer IllusionOmoinotake
Omoinotake is a three-piece band that captivates fans with songs influenced by Black music such as soul, R&B, and hip-hop.
Their sixth digital-only single, “Natsu no Maboroshi” (Summer Illusion), was chosen as the theme song for the film Cherry Magic! THE MOVIE: The Magic Continues.
The contrast between the delicate, lingering piano-driven ensemble and the emotional vocals evokes the bittersweet atmosphere of summer.
It’s a sentimental summer song that gently colors the passing season.
A wish in summerPenthouse
Penthouse is a six-member coed city-soul band formed in a University of Tokyo music club, active under the concept of exploring music that adds a touch of style to everyday life.
Their digital single Natsu ni Negai wo, released for streaming on July 12, 2023, draws you into its world from the opening, featuring a refreshing string sound.
The lyrics portray the feeling of being unable to express your emotions as time slips by, and combined with summer’s sentimental atmosphere, they’re sure to tug at your heart.
With its driving beat and stylish arrangement, this pop tune is a comfortable listen that turns up the heat for the season.
Because of the summerRADWIMPS
RADWIMPS is a rock band that has been active since 2001.
Their 2020 release “Natsu no Sei” features a captivating, airy, and beautiful melody that sets it apart from their rougher early sound.
While the piano takes the lead, the subtle blend of full band elements adds a nuanced richness.
If you’re looking for a song with a mysterious charm—something different from a typical poppy summer track—this one is a top recommendation.
Its calm vibe also makes it a perfect BGM for those sweltering summer nights when it’s hard to sleep.
