[July Songs] A selection of Japanese summer tunes perfect for the start of the season!
July marks the opening act of full-fledged summer.
Fireworks, the start of beach season, Tanabata, festivals…
For students, it’s also when summer vacation begins—no shortage of events to get excited about.
In this article, we introduce songs that are perfect for July, a month when outings become more frequent.
From tracks that evoke the start of summer—like the sea, the stars, and festivals—to refreshing youth anthems, it’s a lineup packed with mood-boosting classics.
Crank up your favorite tune and power through the sweltering summer heat!
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[July Songs] A selection of Japanese summer songs perfect for the start of summer! (131–140)
HanabiCAPSULE
It’s a music duo consisting of producer Yasutaka Nakata and vocalist Toshiko Koshijima.
Apart from the vocals, Yasutaka Nakata handles tasks like lyrics and composition.
The song is very cute—an upbeat track that brightens your mood and gives you a warm, fluffy feeling.
The singing voice is adorable and soothing.
July 7Char
Perfect for the Tanabata season, this song is included on the anniversary album “ROCK+,” released in May 2015, with Masaharu Fukuyama providing the track.
The lyrics portray the delicate distance and emotions between lovers, capturing the moment a sudden, unexpected proposal moves the heart.
The scene where the usually indifferent protagonist is taken aback by a surprise at an upscale restaurant, yet moved to tears, is sure to strike a chord with listeners.
Brimming with happiness, this piece is ideal for a summer night date—one you’ll want to listen to with someone special.
Happy BirthdayEXILE TAKAHIRO
EXILE TAKAHIRO’s song is a warm message piece filled with love and gratitude for someone special.
Through depictions of beautiful nature and images symbolizing hope, it expresses the small joys and everyday thankfulness of life, and sings of eternal love and bonds.
Included on the album “EXPLORE,” it centers on pop and ballad styles, showcasing TAKAHIRO’s clear, beautiful vocals.
July is a season when many people celebrate their birthdays.
It’s a perfect track not only for celebrating a loved one’s birthday, but also as the ideal BGM for making summer memories.
For the momentEvery Little Thing
It was Every Little Thing’s fourth single, released in 1997.
It became their first single to reach number one on the Oricon charts.
The song was used in a Morinaga Seika “ICE BOX” commercial, and its lyrics overflow with the feelings of a girl who has fallen in pure, genuine love.
Kiss the windGLIM SPANKY
While embracing the charm of bygone eras, GLIM SPANKY captivate with a richly textured sound in their digital release coming in July 2024.
It’s a rock tune that paints scenes of feeling a pleasant breeze on a summer day off or during a drive.
The song is also used in the commercial for Suzuki’s Solio Bandit.
Remi Matsuo’s powerful vocals and Hiroki Kamemoto’s distinctive guitar work leave a strong impression, creating a free and liberating atmosphere.
Rooted in roots-music-inspired arrangements and fusing the pleasures and dynamism of rock, this track is perfect for anyone seeking a refreshing seasonal vibe—an ideal companion for summer drives!
Tonight, July 7MACO
Unlike Orihime and Hikoboshi, who can meet on Tanabata, MACO’s song “Konya, July 7th” is about someone she loves dearly but can no longer see.
It’s included on her 2016 album “Love letter.” They were together through every season, yet now, even on Tanabata—when even Orihime and Hikoboshi can meet—they cannot.
Still, the song expresses gratitude to that beloved person for all the wonderful times shared and the many emotions they brought.
As you listen, think of the person who is precious to you—the one you wish you could meet, if only on Tanabata.
Our DiaryME:I
A heartwarming song that captures summer memories.
Featured on ME:I’s single “Hi-Five,” released in August 2024, this track pairs a laid-back melody with lyrics that reflect on summer days, striking an emotional chord.
Scenes like the pool and stargazing at a campsite are depicted poetically, gently stirring listeners’ own memories.
It’s recommended for moments when you want to look back on time spent with someone special—you’re sure to feel all warm and fuzzy.
A track video, which includes footage shot in Los Angeles, has also been released and is receiving positive feedback from viewers.