Artists and Female Singers in Western Music to Listen to in Summer: 2026 Rankings

Speak LowBillie Holiday29rank/position

Billie Holiday & Her Orchestra – Speak Low (Verve Records 1956)

In Kurt Weill’s 1943 stage play One Touch of Venus, the song was performed by Mary Martin.

The play tells the story of a Venus statue coming to life and falling in love, with the song conveying the poignancy of never knowing when she might turn back into stone.

It was adapted into a film in 1948, in which Ava Gardner performed the song.

ManhattanBlossom Dearie30rank/position

Blossom Dearie – Manhattan

This jazz classic by Blossom Dearie features uniquely quirky, cute vocals and sophisticated track work that exude an overwhelming presence and a captivating atmosphere.

Her effortlessly pleasant vocal sensibility carries a stylish, urban vibe that makes it perfect for summer listening.

…Baby One More TimeBritney Spears31rank/position

Britney Spears – …Baby One More Time (Official Video)

Britney Spears, a songstress who defined the ’90s.

With her cute looks contrasted by a sexy voice and songs, she’s captured fans’ hearts.

Among her tracks, the one I especially recommend is …Baby One More Time.

Released on October 23, 1998 as her debut single, it became a smash hit, reaching No.

1 not only in the United States but also in the UK, Australia, Italy, France, and charts around the world—an incredible feat for a debut.

With its catchy, R&B-flavored pop sound, it’s perfect for a summer party playlist.

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Yoimachi Jēn

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HavanaCamila Cabello32rank/position

Camila Cabello – Havana (Audio) ft. Young Thug

Let me introduce “Havana,” released in 2018 and a huge hit in Japan.

It’s a song by Cuban-born singer Camila Cabello, depicting a romance set in Havana.

However, it’s not a pure love story—the protagonist is a woman being used by a bad man.

The slightly messy storyline evokes the steamy atmosphere of Havana.

By the way, the male-perspective part is performed by the rapper Young Thug.

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yamamoto

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Please MeCardi B & Bruno Mars33rank/position

Cardi B & Bruno Mars – Please Me (Official Video)

A track that reunites Cardi B and Bruno Mars, who created a buzz with their 2018 collaboration on “Finesse.” Released on February 15, 2019, the song is a Valentine’s-themed love track.

The title “Please Me” means “please satisfy me.” The music video depicts two people who meet after a party and fall in love.

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HATSUMI

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But BeautifulCarmen McRae34rank/position

Carmen McRae / But Beautiful

This jazz classic by Carmen McRae—an artist garnering attention for her refined sensibility, rich vocals, and evocative melancholy—stands out for its luxurious texture and versatility that complements any groove.

It’s a perfect pick for the summer season.

I’ve Never Been To MeCharlene35rank/position

Love Like a Mirage / Charlene (with lyrics)

Charlene is a singer from the United States.

“I’ve Never Been to Me” is a song written and composed by Motown’s hit-making team, a wistful ballad that expresses the feelings of a woman who has led a glamorous life but realizes that true happiness lies elsewhere.

It has been covered by many artists, but Charlene’s 1977 version is the most well-known.