Drive Song Rankings [2026]

Messenger from Sunday↑THE HIGH-LOWS↓29rank/position

[Official] The High-Lows “Messenger from Sunday” [Included on the album ‘flip flop’ (2001/1/24)] THE HIGH-LOWS / Nichiyoubiyori no Shisha

It’s one of THE HIGH-LOWS’ signature songs, with a grand, hymn-like, radiant atmosphere that’s a major part of its appeal.

Its popularity is evident from various tie-ins: it was used in Honda’s “Do you have a HONDA?” ad campaign, served as the theme song for the film Zebraman, and has been featured as background music in travel programs.

The warm sound incorporating acoustic guitar and piano is also striking, conveying a bright, refreshing sense of hope like a clear summer sky.

The lyrics depict thoughts turning toward distant places, making it a perfect song for setting off on a journey.

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kappamaki

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Over DriveJUDY AND MARY30rank/position

Judy And Mary – Over Drive (Live 2000)

When it comes to songs that blow away the sweltering summer heat, ‘Over Drive’ is the one.

Released in 1995 by the rock band JUDY AND MARY, known for their signature hit ‘Sobakasu,’ it delivers a passionate band sound with a simple instrumental setup that truly hits home.

The nostalgic lyrics that evoke the fleeting nature of summer and YUKI’s pure vocals are a perfect match.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced sound is sure to liven up the car interior! A refreshing yet slightly melancholic melody line makes this track especially captivating.

Be sure to give it a listen on a sunny-day drive.

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mutō

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Chuo FreewayMatsutōya Yumi31rank/position

Chuo Freeway (2022 Ｍix)

“Chuo Freeway,” a song themed around the view from the Chuo Expressway, was included on singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya’s 1976 album The 14th Moon, beloved across generations.

It sings of the honest feelings that surface as two lovers drive together.

With a breezy, city-pop-like melody, it’s perfect for a drive spent with someone special.

As dusk falls and the night’s quiet sets in, this refreshing number lifts the mood for an evening drive.

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mutō

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Ms. Hanako on a high pedestalback number32rank/position

back number – Takane no Hanako-san (full)

This signature number from back number is guaranteed to get everyone hyped during summer drives and karaoke—surely a staple summer song that resonates with many.

The track stands out for expressing the bittersweet feelings of an unrequited crush—yearning for someone who won’t look your way—set to a refreshing, fast-paced sound.

While the lyrics portray the woman he admires as someone out of reach, the charm lies in the protagonist’s comical side, drifting into fanciful daydreams and then snapping back to reality.

It captures the perfect interplay between the liberating feel of summer and the frustration of a distance that just won’t close.

Released as a single in June 2013, it was later included on the album “Love Story.” In 2019, it drew fresh attention when vocalist Iyori Shimizu performed a stripped-down version for Kirin Brewery’s Tanrei Green Label TV commercial.

If you want to relive the sweet-and-sour pangs of a one-sided crush, or you’re on your way to a summer event, this song will instantly lift your spirits.

And if you sing it with friends at karaoke, you’re guaranteed to get the whole room going in shared excitement!

Bling-Bang-Bang-BornCreepy Nuts33rank/position

[Live] Creepy Nuts – Bling-Bang-Bang-Born (Live at Yoyogi National Gymnasium First Gymnasium)

This is a track by Creepy Nuts brimming with a free spirit and strong self-affirmation.

The lyrics encourage listeners to live true to themselves without being constrained by society’s norms.

Chosen as the opening theme for Season 2 of the TV anime Mashle: MAGIC AND MUSCLES, it immediately became a hot topic both in Japan and abroad upon its release in January 2024.

It gained worldwide popularity, even reaching No.

8 on the Billboard Global 200 for the week.

This song is also perfect for summer drives—the exhilarating beat and powerful rap are sure to amplify the feeling of freedom on the road.

Trace that dreamYOASOBI34rank/position

Trace that dream

YOASOBI, the music duo that made a striking debut with their smash hit ‘Racing into the Night’ and has garnered popularity both in Japan and abroad, especially among younger listeners.

Their second digital-only single, ‘Tracing That Dream,’ produced based on the novel ‘Yume no Shizuku to Hoshi no Hana,’ later released in a ballad version as well, which became a hot topic.

Its liberating melody carried by a driving piano phrase seems perfect for coloring a night drive.

The lyrics, which make you want to go far away, lift your spirits—it’s a refreshing pop tune through and through.

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Hoshino Takashi

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808Suchmos35rank/position

Suchmos “808” (Official Music Video)

This is a captivating disco-funk style track full of urban sounds.

Its groovy, danceable rhythm grabs listeners and won’t let go.

The lyrics skillfully weave in satire and social commentary, sounding an alarm about the information overload of modern times.

Released by Suchmos in February 2018, it was featured in Honda’s VEZEL commercial.

The comfortable beat driven by the synthesizer bass and the fusion with jazzy sounds make it a song that will soothe you in a city café.

It’s perfect for relaxing at home or creating a stylish atmosphere—be sure to give it a listen.