Songs to Listen to in September: Popular J-POP Tracks That Capture the End of Summer and Early Autumn
The heat has eased, and it’s becoming a more comfortable season.
September is a somewhat contemplative time, where the lingering traces of summer intersect with the beginning of autumn.
I’d like to introduce some songs that are perfect for September.
From memories of summer and bittersweet love songs to tracks that capture the changing seasons, each one resonates deeply with the heart.
For an end-of-summer drive or a leisurely walk, you’re sure to find the perfect song for you.
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[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J‑Pop Tracks That Evoke Late Summer and Early Autumn (1–10)
You are the seaMy Hair is Bad
If you want to soak in that nostalgic end-of-summer vibe, I recommend “Kimi ga Umi” by My Hair is Bad.
Its wistful melody will bring back memories of a summer from your youth, and the love-themed lyrics are sure to resonate with anyone.
Also pay attention to the literary word choice—soft, novel-like depictions of youth and romance.
Why not listen while looking back on your summer memories, accompanied by the band’s driving, exhilarating sound?
MapleŌmori Motoki
This song delicately portrays the complex emotions that arise between the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.
The duet by Motoki Omori and Miku Motomatsu gently gives voice to the hearts of two people in love.
Beginning with a question that seeks to confirm their affection, the lyrics—where loneliness, sadness, and happiness intermingle—resonate deeply with listeners.
Included on the digital EP “Midnight,” released in August 2021, and featured as the theme song for ABEMA’s romance show “Ashita mo Suki de Ite, Ii desu ka?” this track is recommended not only for those troubled by love, but also for anyone who wants to reexamine their relationship with someone important.
Late Summer (A Season for One)Arai Yumi
This is a song by Yumi Arai that overlays the changing seasonal scenery with the end of a romance and the beginning of time alone.
The sight of leaves blazing with color and delicate flowers swaying in the wind seems to reflect the protagonist’s loneliness.
The song was included on the album “The 14th Moon,” released under the name Yumi Arai in November 1976, and it also served as the theme song for the NHK dramas “Natsu no Furusato” and “Maboroshi no Budōen.” Its poignant melody—mingling a lingering affection for the summer that has passed with a quiet resolve for the seasons to come—resonates deeply with listeners.
Whether you play it on a drive while reminiscing about summer or during a slightly chilly evening stroll, it will gently keep you company.
[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J‑Pop Tracks That Evoke Late Summer and Early Autumn (11–20)
The Autumn SongELLEGARDEN
This is a song that resonates deeply with the heart as autumn arrives.
It delicately portrays the feelings of the protagonist spending time while traces of summer still linger.
Daily life seems unchanged, yet the seasons are surely shifting.
The loneliness and self-questioning felt in such moments, paired with the lingering melody, leave a powerful impression.
Released in November 2004, this track is loved by many as one of ELLEGARDEN’s signature works.
It’s a perfect song to listen to alone when you want to sink into a nostalgic mood.
Night journeyYorushika
At the end of summer, when you feel a coolness in the night, this song will hit home.
It’s a track by Yorushika, a band known for their nostalgic style, released as a digital single in 2020.
It drew attention for being used as an insert song in the film “A Whisker Away.” The transparent tone, highlighted by the beautiful sound of the piano, really sinks in.
It matches vocalist suis’s voice perfectly and tugs at the heart.
The lyrics, reflecting the passage of time, growing up, and the loneliness that comes with it, are another part of its appeal.
If you want something dreamy and atmospheric, this is a must-listen.
osmanthus (fragrant orange osmanthus; sweet olive)Aina ji Endo
A song inspired by the fragrant orange blossoms of the fragrant olive that bloom in autumn.
Sung by Aina the End—also known as a member of the girls’ group BiSH—it was included on her 2021 album THE END.
Majestic piano tones evoke the poignant feeling of early autumn.
Her sultry vocals, which recount an unrequited love, are sure to soothe you.
It’s a romantic ballad with a mature ambiance.
Let this love song conjure up beautiful autumn scenery as you listen.
A man’s heart is as changeable as autumn weather.Gōruden Bonbā
This is a Golden Bomber song that evokes the end of summer and the beginning of autumn.
Included on the album “Golden Hour: Second Half Best 2010,” it features a catchy melody that transcends the visual kei genre.
The lyrics, which portray bittersweet feelings for a loved one and the fragility of relationships, resonate deeply.
Released in January 2011, the track is cherished by many fans as one of the band’s signature works.
Listen to it on an autumn evening while thinking of your partner or someone dear, and you’ll surely discover a new sense of emotion.