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 (21–30)
It’s a small worldKing Gnu
When it comes to a King Gnu song to listen to in early autumn, “It’s a small world” is the one.
Many of their tracks have a unique worldview, but this song especially leaves a strong impression.
Both the music and the lyrics evoke a sense of claustrophobia.
The repeated lines “You don’t have to become an adult” and “I want to live in your world” may be what connects to the song’s title.
The track is included on the 2019 album “Sympa.” It’s a song you’ll want to sit with alone on an autumn night.
red-yellow fragrant olive (Osmanthus fragrans)Fujifaburikku
A signature song by the Japanese rock band Fujifabric, created with the image of autumn in mind.
The band’s dynamics link beautifully with the lyrics, and many listeners have surely been moved to tears by the poignant world of its beautiful Japanese words.
The arrangement from the latter half, evoking a sense of impatience, perfectly captures the loneliness at summer’s end and the heart-wrenching nostalgia of autumn—a true treasure of the rock band world.
crescent moonayaka
When it comes to J-pop songs that use the moon as a motif, this is probably the first one that comes to mind for many people: Ayaka’s signature song “Mikazuki” (Crescent Moon).
With her overwhelming vocals, she sings of loneliness and heartache, yet within that solitude you can feel a definite sprout of strength toward the future.
Many listeners have surely been encouraged by such lyrics.
SEPTEMBERTakeuchi Mariya
This is Mariya Takeuchi’s third single, released in 1979.
It has a bright, pop vibe, yet somehow carries a tinge of sadness.
The song tells of a man’s change of heart as summer ends and his feelings drift away.
With the heat fading and a slightly chilly wind beginning to blow, it’s a perfect September song that matches the mood of the season.
RevivalSukima Suichi
This is a pop ballad by Sukima Switch, the two-member musical duo that has released numerous hit songs and energized the J-POP scene.
While preserving their distinctive musical worldview, their gentle vocals and lyrics have embraced listeners.
Many people have likely been encouraged by this song, which carries their signature message of support woven by the duo.
September PeninsulaImai Miki
A track included on Miki Imai’s third original album, Bewith, which was created around a summer theme.
The lyrics are by Yuho Iwasato and the music by Chika Ueda.
With every step forward, something is lost, and even a farewell to someone precious takes place.
It’s a song that conjures the image of a woman walking along the seaside, carrying that pain in her heart.
If anything, it feels like a song for September, when the heat still lingers.
Yet instead of joyful summer memories, it portrays sorrow and sadness, making it something you’ll also want to listen to in the early autumn as the air turns chilly.
Colorful WorldJUDY AND MARY
This is a classic song by JUDY AND MARY, a pop, punkish, and cute band led by vocalist YUKI.
It unfolds from a rhythmical yet wistful first verse, with a chorus highlighted by soaring, memorable vocals.
It’s the kind of track where YUKI’s gentle voice naturally brings a smile to your face, wrapping around and comforting a weary heart.