[Night Drive] Songs recommended for nighttime drives
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.
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[Night Drive] Recommended songs for a night drive (51–60)
Friday Nightnatori
Singer-songwriter Natori, who began posting videos of his original numbers on TikTok in 2021 and has since gained popularity mainly on social media.
His “Friday Night” has an irresistible, languid vibe reminiscent of “Overdose,” which he released in 2022 to great acclaim.
The vocal phrases that incorporate a six-note “ta-ta-ta-ta-ta-ta” rhythm are also incredibly catchy.
With its calm and stylish tone, it’s a great choice as background music for nighttime listening.
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.
Sweet 19 Blues ~So Far From Me~t-Ace feat. Amuro Namie
This is a featuring track that uses the original song of Namie Amuro’s classic “SWEET 19 BLUES,” released in 1996.
While thinking of that lover from back then, it expresses regrets and struggles toward one’s past self.
It’s filled with the kind of raw, real message typical of T-Ace.
It’s a song we hope you’ll listen to when you want to be alone and think things through in order to move on to your next love.
Midnight RainbowSuga Shikao
A song by singer-songwriter Shikao Suga, who has gained popularity for a genre-defying sound rooted in influences like psychedelic rock and noise music.
Featured on his 10th album, “THE LAST,” this track is known for the anecdote that the lyrics alone took a full month to complete.
Its driving arrangement—built on a groovy beat and cool piano—seems perfectly suited to the scenery streaming by on a nighttime drive.
A cool number recommended both for solo cruises and outings with friends.
[Night Drive] Recommended Songs for Night Drives (61–70)
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.
A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo
The 16th single by singer-songwriter Ringo Sheena, who is also active as the central figure of the rock band Tokyo Jihen and whose unique worldview is supported by a wide range of listeners.
Initially released as a fully limited first edition, the single served as the theme song for Coca-Cola’s 2015 summer campaign and drew attention for being a duet with Ukigumo, the guitarist of Tokyo Jihen.
With its distinctive floating-feel melody and jazzy arrangement, it evokes a nocturnal atmosphere.
It’s a perfect number for a night drive, letting you slip into your own world as you watch the passing city lights.
Easy★RiderOkuda Tamio
Tamio Okuda brings us the perfect song for a season when a refreshing breeze flows gently by.
Set to a lively rhythm and expansive melody, this piece captures the feeling of racing down a free, unrestricted road, brimming with liberation and positivity.
Released in June 1996, it reached No.
4 on the Oricon weekly charts and stayed on the charts for 16 weeks.
It was also used in a Nissan commercial and as a TV program theme, winning fans across generations.
Whether you’re driving enveloped in the warmth of spring or setting out on a new path, this song will be a reassuring companion.