Songs for summer: Popular Artist Rankings [2026]

Nagisasupittsu15rank/position

Spitz / Nagisa

An unforgettable classic with a melody that blends freshness and bittersweet longing, vividly summoning scenes of summer! The poetic world spun by Masamune Kusano may seem like a summer love story at first glance, but beneath the surface lies a profound theme where reality and fantasy intersect.

Nostalgia for days gone by and the faint light of a protagonist who still tries to look ahead gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Released as a Spitz single in September 1996, the track was included the following year on the album Indigo Chiheisen (Indigo Horizon).

Many will also remember it fondly as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Koi Monogatari.” Its shimmering sound makes it perfect for summer drive playlists, and it’s an ideal companion for cruising along the seaside at twilight or for a solo trip when you want to indulge in a bit of quiet reflection.

Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi16rank/position

Kenshi Yonezu – Spirits of the Sea

This is a song by Kenshi Yonezu whose grand, fantastical sound deeply stirs the listener’s heart.

Written as the theme for the animated film Children of the Sea, released in June 2019, it is also included on the album STRAY SHEEP.

Yonezu’s deep affection for the original work shines through, beautifully capturing a poignant world that closely follows the story.

The song paints a portrait of a summer that has passed and a longing for someone precious who can no longer be met.

The image of a room still carrying the scent of the sea breeze seems to awaken warm memories from deep within the chest.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to on a quiet summer night when you feel like immersing yourself in memories.

cotton candyback number17rank/position

back number – Watagashi (full)

A sweet and bittersweet song by back number that vividly captures the scenes of a summer festival and the delicate feelings of a young person in love.

Released in July 2012 and used as the opening theme for TBS’s COUNT DOWN TV, the track is marked by a gentle melody that warmly embraces a youthful love story.

It delicately portrays a summer romance that melts away like cotton candy.

The music video featuring Mizuki Yamamoto further enhances the song’s charm.

It remains beloved by many as a song you want to listen to slowly to forget the summer heat, and one you want to sing carefully at karaoke.

Summer Colorsyuzu18rank/position

Yuzu 'Natsuiro' MUSIC VIDEO

For the perfect song to brighten up your summer Instagram Stories, we recommend the debut single from the folk duo Yuzu! Released in June 1998, this track’s exhilarating, fast-paced melody lifts your spirits the moment you hear it.

Its sense of speed and vibrant arrangement make it ideal for capturing a sunny moment as a special memory.

It’s also featured on the classic album “Yuzu Ikka,” and in 2017 it was used in a commercial for ice cream.

Add your own touch of summer color to a drive with friends or a seaside sunset.

Two People’s Summer Story – NEVER ENDING SUMMER –Sugiyama Kiyotaka & Omega Tribe19rank/position

Two People's Summer Story - NEVER ENDING SUMMER -

When it comes to songs that symbolize summers of the ’80s, many people probably think of this track by Kiyotaka Sugiyama & Omega Tribe.

Released in March 1985, it’s also well known as a JAL commercial song.

Set against a marina on a night lit by shooting stars, it deftly portrays the thrill of a summer romance along with the bittersweet sense of an impending farewell.

It’s hard to believe the sleek, refreshing sound was completed in just three days; layered with Sugiyama’s clear, expansive vocals, it conjures vivid summer scenes the moment you listen.

It’s not a difficult song, so give it a try at karaoke—whatever your generation!

Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai20rank/position

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Summer Time Cinderella' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Summer Time Cinderella

When it comes to capturing the sparkle and bittersweetness of summer, no one outshines Ryokuoushoku Shakai.

Their ultimate love song of the summer of 2023 is this very track.

Written as the theme for Fuji TV’s Monday 9 p.m.

drama “Midsummer Cinderella,” it channels the exhilaration of a budding romance and the fleeting, magical passage of time by likening it to “Cinderella.” Haruko Nagaya’s expansive, clear vocals and the breezy sound come together to create an undeniably perfect pop song.

It’s no surprise it won the Excellence Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards.

Put it on as the soundtrack for a drive while making summer memories with your kids, and it will set the stage for a truly wonderful moment.

Goldfish FireworksOtsuka Ai21rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Goldfish Fireworks

A single released in August 2004, it’s a quintessential summer ballad that symbolizes Ai Otsuka’s breakout period.

Released amid her strong image for upbeat, energetic songs, this track delicately portrays a love coming to an end and fleeting emotions, leaving a strong impression of her depth as a songwriter.

The acoustic warmth, restrained melody, and breath-rich vocals intertwine, creating a sound that feels both cool and feverish, resonating deeply.

Its evocative imagery that conjures water and the scent of night is superb, making it a perfect song for quiet late-summer nights or moments when you want to bask in bittersweet memories.