Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer
Looking back at the history of J-POP, countless summer songs have been released over the years.
I’m sure that when you hear “summer songs,” several tracks come to mind for you as well.
Of course, even in the Reiwa era, as summer approaches, many seasonally themed songs continue to be released.
In this article, we’ll showcase a selection of summer songs born in the Reiwa era that are sure to become the new standards going forward! From hype tracks to mellow tunes, there’s a wide variety—so take your time and listen to each one carefully.
Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer (1–10)
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
A song born in the Reiwa era that captures the exhilarating feel of guitar-driven rock infused with the bittersweetness of youth—perfect for summer.
It was selected as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery” in April 2024, marking Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s first anime tie-in in about five years.
Frontman Motoki Omori created this piece with the sense of it being an answer song to “Ao to Natsu,” featuring striking, technical guitar riffs that signal a return to the band’s roots.
The lyrics explore the finiteness of life, the struggles of adolescence, and the importance of loving your imperfect self.
It’s a refreshing track ideal for those who want to get hyped at summer festivals or reminisce about their youth.
sunflowerAdo
A song brimming with hope for a bright future, like a sunflower stretching straight toward the sun.
It vividly portrays the feelings of a protagonist aiming to live positively and the bond with someone special who gently gives them a push.
Featuring Ado’s emotive vocals, this piece is recommended for those seeking the courage to gradually change their timid selves and to reflect on supportive relationships.
It’s a heartwarming track that quietly nestles close to your heart—especially moving at the start of summer.
StarmineDa-iCE
A summer tune released by Da-iCE in August 2022.
In sharp contrast to the Japan Record Award–winning “CITRUS,” this track is aggressive and exhilarating.
Its modern structure—kicking off with a striking sung melody without an intro—helped it gain popularity on social media.
The unique lyrics, likening feelings to fireworks, make a powerful impact.
Alongside its all-out, euphoric energy, the motivational lyrics are fantastic.
It’s the perfect song for summer events, fireworks festivals, or whenever you’re ready to take on something new!
Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai
Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-member co-ed rock band that’s expanding its fanbase with powerful high-tone vocals and songs brimming with fresh pop sensibility.
Their 7th single, “Summertime Cinderella,” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Midsummer Cinderella.” The arrangement moves from a sentimental intro featuring piano and strings into a light, breezy A-melody, making you feel refreshed just by listening.
True to its title, the summer-evoking lyrics convey the arrival of the hot season, delivering a refreshing, upbeat tune.
Nagisaimase
Singer-songwriter imase, who made TikTok his main battleground, has scored massive hits with songs like “Have a nice day” and “Tohikō” (Escape).
He began writing and composing his own music soon after starting his career, and made a major-label debut in just about a year—a pace that may be unique to the Reiwa era.
“Nagisa” is a summer song he created, and his signature high-tone vocals leave a strong impression.
The lyrics depict a fleeting summer romance, and as you listen, the story seems to unfold right before your eyes.
Ocean living roomSuzuki Suzuki
With the uniquely beautiful harmonies only siblings can create, Suzuki Suzuki deliver a perfect song to color the summer of the Reiwa era.
Its fresh, up-tempo melody lifts the listener’s spirits and whisks you away to glittering summertime scenes.
Upon its release in August 2021, the track became a hit, inspiring over 110,000 related videos on TikTok, and it topped the Billboard JAPAN charts for two consecutive weeks in September of the same year.
It’s also included on the album “313.” Ideal for a seaside drive or lively moments with friends, this is a song that’s sure to boost your mood.
Stars swimmakaroni enpitsu
This song, created by Macaroni Enpitsu, serves as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering.” Its exhilarating yet solid rock sound leaves a strong impression, capturing themes of summer’s restless impatience and a fate that vanishes as fleetingly as fireworks.
The lyrics convey a fierce resolve to confront an unavoidable destiny, the sorrow of losing someone dear, and a determination to keep looking forward nonetheless.
Released digitally in April 2022, the track is also included on the EP “Tamáshii no Ibasho” (“Where the Soul Belongs”).
Mirroring the anime’s edge-of-your-seat developments, this piece is perfect for summer nights when you want to steep yourself in a touch of melancholy or relive the story’s emotional impact.