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 summer anthems perfect for summer guys and summer girls (161–170).
Bewitch it4na
You might have heard this stylish-sounding track somewhere before.
That’s because it was featured in the Home Tutor Try commercial, “If Summer Were Youth.” Despite the song’s sleek, cool vibe, the lyrics—set against a summer backdrop—carry a passionate message like “Let’s spend our time so we leave no regrets.” If you listen while reading all the lyrics, I think you’ll get a different impression, so give it a try.
WeakendsDef Tech
Some of you may feel sad that summer is coming to an end.
That’s why I’d love for you to listen to “Weakends.” It’s a track released by the reggae duo Def Tech.
Set to the gentle sound of the ukulele, it portrays the end of summer and a longing to stay together even after summer is over.
The song has a warm overall feel, so it’s relaxing to listen to and might even blow away those blues.
By the way, the title is a coined word that combines “weekends” and “weak.”
guitar bagGalileo Galilei
Known as the inaugural champions of the teen-exclusive rock festival Sengoku Riot, the four-piece rock band Galileo Galilei thrilled fans by resuming activities with a new lineup in 2022.
Guitar Bag, included on their fifth album Bee and The Whales, is a refreshing number with a breezy ensemble.
Its lyrics evoke a scene of sunflowers in full bloom and conjure the image of a great presence that watches over you no matter what.
It’s a pop tune that blends the coolness of summer with a sentimental atmosphere, featuring a chorus that feels like the world opening up before your eyes.
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.
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.
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.