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 (11–20)
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.
secret base ~What You Gave Me~ZONE
It’s still hot in September with high temperatures, but according to the calendar, it’s already autumn.
This is the season when you gradually start to feel the end of summer, and the perfect recommendation for this time is this song! It regained popularity as the theme song for a hugely popular anime, right? The gentle, subdued intro is incredibly moving and really resonates in your heart, and I think a song like this is perfect for the slightly lonely feeling that comes with the end of summer.
September RainMiyamoto Hiroji
Released in 1996, Hiroji Miyamoto’s song “Kugatsu no Ame” (“September Rain”) is included on the album I Want to Be Beautiful.
From the title, many might imagine a gentle ballad, but in fact it’s an upbeat, fast-paced number.
That said, the lyrics depict a couple on the verge of breaking up, with many poignant touches.
It’s a perfect song for early autumn, when the chilly breeze can bring on a touch of loneliness.
By the way, this Hiroji Miyamoto is a different person from Hiroji Miyamoto of Elephant Kashimashi.
summer hazeatarayo
A song by Atarayo that portrays memories of a summer that has slipped away and the shifting emotions tied to them.
True to the group’s tagline, “a band that grows by eating sorrow,” this track conveys a powerful sense of sadness.
It begins with a gentle, piano-centered atmosphere and builds momentum toward the chorus, evoking a scene where layered emotions erupt.
Perhaps it’s precisely because those summer memories were so happy that the pain of losing them feels all the more intense.
SparkleIkuta Rira
Sparkle is a solo number by Lila Ikuta—who is also the vocalist of YOASOBI—that depicts a heartrending, unrequited love.
Released in 2022, the song was chosen as the theme for ABEMA’s “Kyou, Suki ni Narimashita: Mikan-hen, Sotsugyou-hen 2022.” The lyrics portray a love sparked by a small moment, only to end without the feelings ever being conveyed, because the other person loves someone else—a story steeped in bittersweet sorrow.
As the days grow shorter and a touch of melancholy sets in with September, give it a listen while reflecting on a painful love, or one that has ended.
KoiAndrop
A song by the rock band androp that became the theme for the film “My Dad Is a Heel Wrestler” (Until I Meet September’s Love).
Its warm lyrics and straightforward message make it a reassuring track.
The vocal’s conversational singing style is moving, and the band’s arrangement—featuring beautiful backing vocals—adds a sense of loneliness.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to carefully to take in the lyrics.
[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J‑Pop Tracks That Evoke Late Summer and Early Autumn (21–30)
End of SummerShimizu Shota
It’s a masterpiece that beautifully captures the bittersweet feeling of summer’s end and a sense of gratitude.
The lyrics gently weave thoughts of a love that has passed, and paired with Shota Shimizu’s emotive vocals, they resonate deeply in the heart.
This song is included on the album ENCORE, released in March 2014.
With lyrics depicting youthful memories—like fireworks at summer festivals and kisses on the beach—the beginning and end of love are poetically mirrored with the changing seasons.
It’s a perfect track for those who cherish summer memories or feel the ache of love.
The more you listen, the more its charm draws you in.