Reggae classics and popular tracks you’ll want to play this summer — perfect for drives and BBQs
When you think of summer music, what genre comes to mind? Many people would probably answer “reggae,” without hesitation.
If you’re a fan, you might already have a personal playlist packed with classic tracks that are perfect for summer events or a drive.
In this article, though, we’ve put together a selection of recommended reggae songs for beginners too—from timeless classics to relatively recent hits.
We’re featuring both international and Japanese tracks, so if you’ve been thinking about getting into reggae, be sure to check these out!
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[Perfect for drives and BBQs] Classic and popular reggae songs to listen to in summer (91–100)
DON’T FEEL NO WAYBOY-KEN feat. PUSHIM
It’s a refreshing reggae tune that makes you want to go for a drive while feeling the summer breeze.
Born from the collaboration between BOY-KEN and PUSHIM, this track was released in 2006.
Its upbeat lyrics and rhythmic sound will lift listeners’ spirits.
Packed with courage to face difficulties and messages of support for young people, it’s truly a perfect song for summer.
It’s also great for times when you want to feel positive or give yourself a boost.
TOUCH THE SKYEXPRESS
It’s a reggae tune that powerfully expresses hope and challenge.
It’s a track by EXPRESS, included on the album “Mogura no Album,” released in January 2014.
With energetic vocals and a straightforward melody, it conveys the importance of moving toward your own dreams.
The lyrics, which give listeners courage and hope, truly resonate.
Put it on during a summer drive or a BBQ and it might get you hotter than the sun.
BIRDMANFire Ball
FIRE BALL is a reggae group that performs at major rock festivals like Fuji Rock and Summer Sonic.
Their track “BIRDMAN” was released in 2006.
The laid-back reggae sound pairs perfectly with lyrics about pursuing dreams and goals.
Their emotional vocals are sure to give you courage.
It’s a melodious song within Japanese reggae, so it’s great for beginners too.
Be sure to check out this track that will refreshingly color your hot summer.
Don’t Give Up YourselfHAN-KUN
Of course, he’s active as a member of Shonan no Kaze, but reggae singer HAN-KUN has also gained international popularity as a solo artist.
His distinctly masculine voice leaves a strong impression and has a devoted following among both men and women.
Among his tracks, a particularly good pick for driving or BBQ background music is Don’t Give Up Yourself.
While Shonan no Kaze has many pop-leaning songs, this track features a very rugged, dancehall-style riddim.
Are you serious? 2020KENTY GROSS
“Honma ni Iu Ten no?” (Are You Serious?), a signature track by KENTY GROSS, a reggae artist representing Osaka, was released in 2008.
Using that original as its base, it was reborn in 2020 as a self-cover titled “Honma ni Iu Ten no? 2020.” While keeping the lyrics steeped in Kansai dialect front and center, it packs in plenty of fresh 2020 topical references.
His trademark raspy voice and the tropical track are the highlights, and listening to this song will make you feel that reggae is absolutely essential for summer!
