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)
Ephemeral FireworksKamisama wa saikoro o furanai
The rock ballad by God Doesn’t Roll Dice gently accompanies that faintly wistful feeling of bidding farewell to summer.
This work likens a blazing summer romance and its end to lights blooming and vanishing in the night sky.
Told from a female perspective, the lyrics conjure scenes like the mismatched footprints the two leave along the water’s edge, calling summer memories back to life.
Released in July 2020, the song was later included on the EP Cultural Singularity and the acclaimed album Event Horizon.
It’s the perfect number for late summer nights, when you want to be alone with your thoughts and sink into the ache of a bittersweet love.
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.
[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.
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.
Night of Osmanthuskinoko teikoku
Osmanthus, with its distinctive fragrance, heralds the arrival of autumn.
People often say there is a deep connection between memory and scent—does the smell of osmanthus bring someone to mind for you? Shoegaze band Kinoko Teikoku’s 2018 release “Kinmokusei no Yoru” (“Night of Osmanthus”) is a song in which the protagonist, realizing from the osmanthus scent that summer is coming to an end, drifts into thoughts of a past lover.
Its refined sound, a melody tinged with nostalgia, and lyrics that feel deeply human are truly moving.
