Songs to Listen to in Summer: Ranking of Popular Tracks by Japanese Female Artists [2026]

Revolutionary JourneyAina ji Endo96rank/position

Aina the End / On the Road of Revolution – On The Way [Official Music Video] (TV anime “Dandadan” Season 2 Opening Theme)

Singer-songwriter Aina The End captivates fans with her one-of-a-kind husky voice and multifaceted talents.

This work stands out with a sound brimming with momentum, reminiscent of the heat of summer.

While harboring a faint crush, it portrays a resolve to push forward to protect what’s important, and that mix of fragility and strength is deeply moving.

Released in July 2025 as the opening theme for the TV anime Dandadan Season 2, it’s a song that will surely give you courage when you want to take on a challenge or lift your spirits.

It’s a summer number that will color your season—perfect for heightening the excitement on your way to a summer festival.

It’s not me unless it’s meGesu no Kiwami Otome.97rank/position

Gesu no Kiwami Otome “Watashi Igai Watashi Janai no”

This is a song by Gesu no Kiwami Otome with an incredibly funky, super cool bassline.

The chorus features a wildly active bass part that feels geared toward intermediate to advanced players.

There’s even a bass solo, making it extremely satisfying to play.

Definitely give it a try.

Love ForeverKatō Miriya × Shimizu Shōta98rank/position

Miliyah Kato × Shota Shimizu “Love Forever”

We swore to love each other forever, yet now I’m all alone.

Even in this aching situation, I can’t let go of my gratitude and tender feelings for you.

This work, which sent shockwaves through the J-POP scene, is a masterpiece that portrays memories that keep shining even after a breakup, and a strong bond that can’t be cut.

Released as a single in May 2009 and also included on the album “Ring,” this song marked the beginning of the MiliShow era—a collaboration between Miliyah Kato and Shota Shimizu.

On lonely nights, I put on a brave face, but deep down I just want to cry.

Listening to it in moments like that can help you regain your honest feelings.

It’s a song for anyone who wishes they could start over.

crescent moonayaka99rank/position

Ayaka – Crescent Moon

With its mellow arrangement and Ayaka’s gentle yet steadfast vocals, this is a classic love ballad.

Looking at the lyrics, it seems to tell a story of a long-distance relationship, with the “crescent moon”—also the song’s title—depicted as the thing that connects the two.

It’s an irresistibly romantic and beautiful track, perfect for this moon-viewing season! In a time of year when it’s easy to feel a little lonely, this warm song will surely stay close to your heart.

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moonlightOnitsuka Chihiro100rank/position

Chihiro Onitsuka – Gekkou (Moonlight)

A song that portrays bittersweet emotions through a uniquely poetic expression is perfect for the month of September.

Chihiro Onitsuka’s “this song” has garnered strong support as a work that resonates with people who carry loneliness and despair.

Released in March 2001, it was also used as the theme song for the TV drama TRICK, and the combination of its mysterious worldview and Onitsuka’s overwhelming vocal power propelled it to even greater popularity.

As September ushers in the shift from summer to autumn, this is a track I especially recommend to anyone who feels something lingering in their heart.