RAG MusicSummer-Songs
Lovely summer song

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 standard tracks that color the hot summer (81–90)

End of the Summer RetreatWurtS

WurtS – Summer’s End (Official Audio)
End of the Summer RetreatWurtS

WurtS’s work, which deftly paints bittersweet summer scenes, is drawing attention as the perfect choice when you want to sink into an emo mood.

This piece captures the wavering emotions characteristic of one’s mid-twenties and the melancholy of summer’s end, expressed through a sound that fuses polished city pop with alternative influences.

The theme, inspired by Buddhist terminology, adds further depth.

The track is included on the EP “MAGICAL SOUP,” released in June 2021, and WurtS later provided a song for Toyota’s Corolla commercial.

Be sure to savor it alongside the lyrics during a summer sunset or whenever you find yourself seeking a moment of release.

COCONUTNiziU

NiziU(니쥬) 2nd Album「COCONUT」M/V
COCONUTNiziU

Perfect for the season when the summer sun is dazzling, this is a summery track from NiziU’s album “COCONUT.” Just listening to it lifts your spirits, evoking a refreshing scene of blue skies and the sea.

Its vibrant sound makes summer memories with friends shine, and the nine members’ vocals convey the openness and positive energy of summer.

The album “COCONUT,” which includes this song, was released in July 2023 and debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Albums Chart with 142,000 copies sold in its first week.

The album also features the movie theme song “Paradise” and the drama theme song “LOOK AT ME.” It’s a perfect pick to elevate karaoke, road trips, and all your summer outings—highly recommended for anyone looking to enjoy the season.

fragrant oliveorenji supainikurabu

ORANGE SPiCE CLUB 'Kinmokusei' Music Video
fragrant oliveorenji supainikurabu

It’s a song by ORANGE SPINY CLUB that carries the sweet-and-sour pangs of youth and quiet heartache hidden in everyday life on a melody that feels somehow nostalgic.

The lyrical world crafted by Naoto Suzuki evokes faint feelings of love and vivid scenes, like the fragrance of fragrant olive, and seems to nestle close to the listener’s heart.

The track is included on the mini-album “Irat­suku Toki wa Itsudatte,” released in January 2020, and has become widely beloved, surpassing 100 million streams in June 2021.

In June 2023, it was also showcased in a special format on THE FIRST TAKE.

It’s the perfect song for those sentimental late-summer moments, when you listen while layering thoughts of someone dear and memories of youth.

mixMarushii

Marcy – Mix (Official Music Video)
mixMarushii

Known as the song from the Google Pixel 7a web commercial, this track by Marcy has captured the hearts of many.

Its delicate, emotional melody creates an atmosphere where the bittersweetness and warmth of late summer coexist.

It carefully depicts the subtle movements and tremors of the heart in love, gently resonating with listeners.

Released in August 2023, the song is also included on the album Candle.

A Shortcut to SummerSakurazaka46

Its sweet-and-sour, refreshing melody is striking, as if capturing the tender feelings of first love that blossom with the arrival of summer and the casual yet sparkling moments with friends.

This track is included on the fifth single, “Sakurazuki,” released in February 2023.

A love song perfect for summer, coloring a page of youth.

Be sure to listen to it in your favorite scene!

Chilled Soba with Green OnionsCody Rī (Ri)

Cody・Lee (Lee) – Chilled Green Onion Soba (Music Video)
Chilled Soba with Green OnionsCody Rī (Ri)

This song by Cody・Lee (李) is a captivating piece where everyday city life intersects with faint summertime memories.

The lyrics mention several specific places in Tokyo, and seem to depict memories of a past romance and the small joys of daily life—listening to it may stir a sense of nostalgia.

Its light sound, evocative of city pop and indie rock, deftly portrays a scene where the languor of summer, the hustle of the city, and a touch of bittersweet emotion all mingle together.

Included on their major-label debut album, “Heartbeat, Love Letters, and Kindness,” released in May 2022, the track is a special one for the band, with drummer Taki Hara taking the lead in crafting the lyrics together with vocalist Hibiki Takahashi.

If you listen to it at summer dusk or when you suddenly find yourself reminiscing, it’s sure to resonate.

Add it to your playlist as a staple for the season.

Reiwa-era summer songs: A roundup of new staple tracks that color the hot summer (91–100)

You’re not here.Saucy Dog

Saucy Dog “Kimi ga Inai” Music Video <5th Mini Album “Lazy Sunday” Released on 2021.8.25>
You’re not here.Saucy Dog

A number by Saucy Dog that resonates with the heart in the summer twilight.

This song sets the protagonist’s aching feelings—holding on to unforgettable memories of love and a longing that can’t reach its destination—to a driving, exhilarating melody.

The emotions wavering between scenes of joyful days and the reality that can never be reclaimed tighten the listener’s chest.

The sentiment, akin to resignation, of “I can’t believe in forever” deeply resonates.

Released in July 2021, the track is also included on the mini-album Lazy Sunday.

It served as the ending theme for Iwate Menkoi TV’s music program BEATNIKS in September 2021.

Give it a listen on a summer night when you want to feel a little sentimental, or when you’d like to quietly reflect on a past love.

It will surely stay close to your heart.