[July Songs] A selection of Japanese summer tunes perfect for the start of the season!

July 8the GazettE

Gazette — July 8 [Shichi Gatsu Youka]

This is a summer song by the visual kei band the GazettE, who had fangirls across the scene in their thrall at the time.

The lyrics, written as if “I” were speaking to “you,” pair perfectly with a low, sweet, sexy vocal delivery.

From the A-melody to the driving, exhilarating chorus, and even the final line that closes the track, it’s packed with imagery that fires up the imagination.

The title, “July 8th,” guarantees this summer number will make that day feel special all over again.

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Murakami Shinpei

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When the Sunflowers Bloomyuzu

Yuzu “When the Sunflowers Bloom”

Yuzu, the pop duo that represents Japan.

No matter which of their songs you listen to, they’re bright, wholesome, and never disappoint.

When it comes to their summer tracks, most people would name Natsuiro, but here I’d like to introduce a hidden gem: Himawari ga Saku Toki.

It’s a track from their 2000 summer-themed mini-album Yuzuman no Natsu—an early song whose tropical vibe captures their approachable warmth.

If you only know the latest pop hits, this thrilling summer number is a must-listen!

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Murakami Shinpei

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Ghost in the FlowersYorushika

Yorushika – Ghost in a Flower (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A digital download–only single by the male–female rock duo Yorushika, their third release, chosen as the theme song for the feature-length animated film “A Whisker Away.” Intentionally crafted with beautiful melodies and imagery, the song’s concept comes through in its gentle, accessible vocals and arrangement that resonate with anyone who listens.

Its blend of summer heat, freshness, and a touch of melancholy makes it a track you’ll undoubtedly want to sink into in July.

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Hoshino Takashi

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ALL FOR YOUAmuro Namie

ALL FOR YOU / (Live Edit)

It was released in 2004 as Namie Amuro’s 27th single.

The song was selected as the theme for the TV drama “Before You Become Memories,” starring Arisa Mizuki, and she performed it as Japan’s representative performing artist at the 2004 MTV BuzzASIA Concert held in Seoul, South Korea.

rainbowFukuyama Masaharu

Masaharu Fukuyama – Rainbow (Full ver.)

It’s a song included on Masaharu Fukuyama’s 18th single, “MAGNUM SINGLE,” which was released as a triple A-side single.

It was used as the theme song for the drama “WATER BOYS,” which depicts a boys’ synchronized swimming club, became a major hit, and sold over a million copies.

Live the summerRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Living the Summer” Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai

This track captures both a cider-like, effervescent freshness and a gritty determination that keeps pushing on, even covered in mud.

Released in July 2020, it was also chosen as the theme song for tvk’s “RIDE OF KANAGAWA 2020 High School Baseball,” and is included on the album SINGALONG.

Haruko Nagaya’s words vividly portray the sparkle of summer and the single-minded pursuit of a goal.

It’s quintessential Ryokuoushoku Shakai: lyrics that shoot straight to the listener’s heart and an energetic sound that’s truly outstanding.

If you want to make your summer memories even more special, this is the perfect cheer song for you!

The summer you gave meieiri reo

Leo Ieiri – The Summer You Gave Me (Theme song for the Monday 9 p.m. drama “Koinaka”)

It was used as the theme song for the drama Koinaka starring Sota Fukushi, and it expresses the frustration of two people who care for each other but can’t be together.

With its calm, quiet sound and beautifully clear vocals, it’s a song you’ll want to listen to on a slightly lonely summer night.