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)
Summer loverSHISHAMO
Many people have either told a partner it’s over or been on the receiving end.
With that in mind, I’d like to introduce “Natsu no Koibito” (“Summer Lover”).
It’s a song released by SHISHAMO in 2016, depicting the casual scenes of a summer romance and the farewell that eventually arrives.
Because the decision to break up is stated clearly early in the song, the everyday moments that follow feel all the more heartrending.
The section in the latter half that portrays inner conflict, and the transition from there into an a cappella part, are especially emotional.
Classic “summer songs” you’ll want to listen to in summer. The best staple J-pop summer tracks for summer guys and summer girls (121–130)
Summer Love AdvisorySHISHAMO
This song by SHISHAMO was also featured in JTB’s “Kokoro Odoru Natsutabi” (Heart-Dancing Summer Trip) campaign commercial.
When the CM first started airing, the title hadn’t been announced yet, and many people were probably curious about the name and the full picture of the song.
True to the band, it opens with a lively, energetic guitar riff that’s perfect for summer, giving it a fresh vibe.
The lyrics portray a love that can’t be stopped, even as the singer hesitates, wondering, “Is it okay to take this love seriously?” It’s a sweet-and-sour summer tune that’s sure to resonate.
tropical nightSHISHAMO
This is “Nettaiya” (Tropical Night), a summer song released in 2015 by the three-woman rock band SHISHAMO.
True to its title, it sings of the burning feelings of a girl in love.
She wants to see the person she loves but worries it might be a bother…
she wonders, “Won’t you come to see me?” After wavering, she ultimately chooses to go see them herself.
If you find yourself longing to meet someone you like during a summer of love, listen to this song and go to them without hesitation.
That step might just spark a new relationship between the two of you!
BANG! BANG! Vacation!SMAP
SMAP’s classic hit “BANG! BANG! Vacation!” This song was released in 2005, and in the late 2000s you’d hear it all over town every summer.
Its charm, above all, lies in its unique lyrics and performance, doesn’t it? The playful wordplay on the members’ surnames, the comical scenes, and the live staging all create a lively, quintessentially summer vibe.
The studio recording is great, of course, but the live versions are also a lot of fun—be sure to check them out.
sea glassSaucy Dog
Saucy Dog, a three-piece rock band that drew attention when their 2021 release Cinderella Boy became a massive hit.
Their sixth major digital single, Seaglass, opens with a poignant vocal line over transparent guitar arpeggios.
The liberating chorus melody and ensemble blend summertime exhilaration with a sentimental atmosphere.
It’s a pop tune with aching lyrics that tighten the chest—one you’ll want to hear at summer’s end.
Heat WaveSuperfly
“Heat Wave” is a hot track in every sense.
It’s a song included on Superfly’s album “Heat Wave.” Placed as the first track, it instantly amps up the listener’s excitement.
The lyrics list various “hot” elements—like summer, passion, and fire—to express a rising sense of exhilaration.
You’ll find many other heat-related images throughout, so try listening while searching for them.
The vocals and the emotion poured into the song are fiery as well.
Summer★☆GetchuTHE SUPER FRUIT
THE SUPER FRUIT is a seven-member idol group that gained widespread recognition among a broad range of listeners after their 2022 release Chiguhagu became a big hit.
Their 3rd single, Summer☆★Get You, is a memorable track with catchy sounds and dance performance.
Its cute lyrics and high-energy ensemble are sure to hype up the summer, just like the title suggests.
It’s a refreshing summer tune that’s also fun to sing with friends at karaoke during the season.