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[Night Drive] Songs recommended for nighttime drives

POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.
lighterutatane
A person from the melodic hardcore boom generation who loves music, photography, and eating. I’ve been going to live houses for over 20 years. I’m at the age where summer festivals are starting to feel tough physically. I sometimes try shooting live photos and videos for MVs. I’m not great at English, so I often listen to straightforward Japanese rock that hits directly, but if someone recommends something, I’ll listen to anything—Western or Japanese—broadly and casually. I like cooking while listening to music; it’s a nice way to relieve stress.

There are all kinds of driving situations—wanting to be alone with your thoughts, spending a relaxing time with someone special, or having fun with friends! For any of these drives, I think music is essential.

In this article, I’ll introduce songs that are perfect for nighttime drives.

I’ve gathered mellow R&B and slightly laid-back rock and pop tracks.

These are classics that can create a great vibe whether you’re solo or with a group, so be sure to make them your companion for your night drive.

[Night Drive] Recommended songs for a night drive (51–60)

I hope it’s sunny.DREAMS COME TRUE

DREAMS COME TRUE – I Hope It’s Sunny (from DWL 2011 Live Ver.)

I hope it’s sunny.DREAMS COME TRUE

A gentle, lyrical song that weaves together childhood memories and growth.

Released by DREAMS COME TRUE in October 1992, this piece captured the hearts of many as the theme song for the NHK morning drama Hirari.

Warm memories of time spent with family in nature—like hiking in the mountains and playing in streams—are portrayed over a calm melody.

The transition from being a child supported by her father to becoming independent and supporting her own family now is especially striking.

Included on the album The Swinging Star, the song evokes the landscapes of Miwa Yoshida’s hometown, Ikeda in Hokkaido, and is perfect for a springtime drive, sure to lift your spirits.

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YokazeHentai Shinshi Kurabu

Yokaze

YokazeHentai Shinshi Kurabu

This is a song whose wistful vocals over a lo-fi beat really sink into your heart.

You can picture yourself in a car speeding down the highway at night, letting the wind rush in through the window as you try to blow away your daily worries and anxieties.

The balance between rap and singing by Hentai Shinshi Club is exquisite, crafting a story-like world with a mellow vibe.

Released in April 2020, it was included on the album “HERO” the same year, and it was also used as the walk-up music for Rakuten Eagles player Hideto Asamura.

It’s a warm, mature track you’ll want to listen to while driving, when spending time alone, or on a quiet night with someone special.

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Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai

God Does Not Play Dice “Yoru-Naga Uta” [Official Lyric Video]

Song of the Eternal NightKami wa saikoro o furanai

This song delicately portrays the end of a bittersweet romance and lingering feelings, featuring a beautiful piano melody and emotional vocals that leave a strong impression.

Included on the May 2019 mini-album “A View on Lambda” by Kami wa Saikoro wo Furanai (God Does Not Roll Dice), the track is crafted into a moving piece that carries a sweet, heartrending afterglow while exuding a mature allure.

In August 2020, the music video was released, with actor Keisuke Watanabe’s performance adding deeper color to the story.

It’s perfect as background music for a night drive or quiet moments with someone special.

Highly recommended for those seeking gently resonant music that preserves a moody atmosphere.

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Knight Riderichou BOYZ

Knight Rider

Knight Riderichou BOYZ

It’s a track included on the second single, “Hikari,” released in 2007, and the lyrics—centered on email, which we hardly use anymore for exchanges with friends or lovers—are just incredibly emotional.

In the song, it says “there’s no email from the person I have feelings for,” and if you’re in your thirties or older, it probably reminds you of repeatedly refreshing your inbox for new messages.

It’s also fun to listen to the song while imagining what the title “Knight Rider” might mean and what message the lyrics are trying to convey.

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Circus NightNanao Tabito

Tavito Nanao “Circus Night” (Official Music Video)

Circus NightNanao Tabito

Set at a slow tempo to create a romantic mood, this is Circus Night, a signature song by singer-songwriter Tavito Nanao.

His gentle vocals are enveloped by a solid, heavy low-end beat.

It’s a track you’ll want to play at just the right moment.

Add it to your playlist!

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