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).
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.
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.
Season in the SunTUBE
TUBE is a band that could be called the embodiment of summer, and among their many summer-themed songs, this track is often cited as one of their signature pieces.
Its refreshing sound evokes images of a calm summer sea and a clear blue sky, making you picture someone feeling the summer breeze with their whole body.
Layered over the gentle instrumentation, the soaring, resonant vocals are another highlight, conveying the excitement of summer and the joy of savoring it.
It’s a song filled with positive emotion, expressing the idea of enjoying the limited time of summer to the fullest and spreading that sense of fun to everyone around.
