Songs for summer: Popular Artist Rankings [2026]

Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi15rank/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 number16rank/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 Colorsyuzu17rank/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 Tribe18rank/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 CinderellaRyokushokushakai19rank/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.

Because of the summerRADWIMPS20rank/position

RADWIMPS – Summer’s Fault [Official Music Video]

It’s a love song where the heat of summer blends with a bittersweet ache.

The blazing start of a romance and those sudden surges of helpless feelings—maybe the song captures that wavering heart that makes you want to blame it all on the magic hidden in the season of summer.

Released in July 2020, the track is also included on the EP “Natsu no Sei ep” (Because of Summer ep).

In the music video featuring Anna Yamada, Japan’s beautiful summer scenery and fireworks bring the world of the song to life.

Highly recommended for anyone whose heart flutters with “This summer for sure!” or who carries wistful summer memories.

It will meet you where you are and make your summer memories shine more vividly.

Apple Fireworks and a Sea of Sodamafumafu21rank/position

[MV] Ringo Fireworks and a Sea of Soda / Mafumafu [Original Song]

This song brilliantly blends the scenes of a summer festival with the darker sides of society, showcasing Mafumafu’s uniquely sensitive artistry.

The Japanese-style melody and rock elements are perfectly matched, and the high-tone vocals leave a strong impression.

It was released on Niconico in August 2014 and is included on the album “Ashita-iro World’s End.” While it takes summer traditions as its theme, the lyrics carry a profound message that prompts reflection on social contradictions and one’s inner self.

The line about not wanting to become an adult who laughs while drinking soda made from someone’s tears really lingers in the heart.

How about listening to it alone on a summer night and facing your own feelings?