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.
- [Autumn Songs] Songs of autumn. Classic tracks and popular favorites you’ll want to listen to in the fall.
- Autumn songs that were hits in the 80s. Classic and popular tracks from Japanese music.
- Popular Autumn Songs Ranking [2026]
- [For Seniors] Autumn Songs That Touch the Heart: From Nostalgic Children’s Songs and School Songs to Showa-Era Kayōkyoku
- Ballad songs perfect for autumn. Timeless mellow hits for the fall season.
- Uplifting songs to listen to in autumn that will make you feel positive
- Autumn songs that were hits in the ’90s. Classic and popular tracks in Japanese music.
- [Children’s Songs of Autumn] Autumn songs, school songs, and traditional children’s rhymes. A collection of classic pieces to sing in autumn.
- [Reiwa Autumn Songs] Seasonal Melodies That Resonate with the Heart | A Curated Selection of Masterpieces to Enjoy in Autumn!
- Emotional songs that resonate in a sentimental autumn. A collection of autumn tunes.
- A Guide to Classic Autumn Songs to Sing at Karaoke in October
- Songs to listen to under the moon: classic and recommended popular tracks to enjoy the Mid-Autumn full moon
- [Autumn Classics] Japanese Songs to Listen to and Sing in October: A Curated Selection of Beloved, Heartfelt Hits
[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J‑Pop Tracks That Evoke Late Summer and Early Autumn (21–30)
All of the Youthsuis from Yorushika
This is a song that evokes the fleeting tenderness of the last fireworks of summer fading into the night sky.
The vocalist is suis, known as the singer of Yorushika.
It’s a cover of Fuji Fabric’s classic 2007 track, produced by music producer Seiji Kameda.
Released in June 2024, it also drew attention as the theme song for the Netflix film “I Have One Year Left to Live, and I Met a Girl With Six Months Left.” The nostalgia for passing seasons and days that won’t return is delicately rendered through suis’s voice, which blends clarity with a boyish quality, and it truly hits home.
It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to intently on nights when you’re immersed in summer memories, or as the seasons change and you find yourself lost in thought.
Afternoon ParadeSuga Shikao
Don’t you feel like his songs always take us to a mysterious world? They carry a faint, nostalgic scent, don’t they? The lyrics about the end of summer are a sign that autumn is beginning.
The rhythmic sound brings back every memory of this summer, and even as we’re reluctant to let go, the season shifts into autumn.
That feeling makes my heart race in the best possible way.
[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J-POP Tracks That Capture the End of Summer and Early Autumn (31–40)
AomiGesu no Kiwami Otome.
This is a fascinating track by Gesu no Kiwami Otome, where Enon Kawatani’s playful spirit shines through an arrangement that’s full of curveballs—from the distinctly classical intro to the rap and beats.
The interplay among the rhythm-driving bass, piano, and vocals is exquisite, creating a danceable groove that naturally gets your body swaying.
It’s an addictive song with a groove that only Gesu no Kiwami Otome could pull off.
for it to become Septemberteto
It’s a cool September rock number by the Japanese band teto that reminisces about a summer gone by.
The sweet, laid-back vocals and the expansive, effect-laden guitar sound make a strong impression.
While the production is excellent, be sure to listen to the lyrics to fully take in the September vibe this song conveys.
Prince of the Night and the Princess of the MoonSento Chihiro Chitti (BiSH)
BiSH is a female idol group known as a punk band without instruments.
This song is the solo debut track by BiSH member Cent Chihiro Chitti.
Some of you may have noticed that it’s actually a cover of a song by GOING STEADY/Ging Nang BOYZ.
When I listen to it, it reminds me of Orihime and Hikoboshi from Tanabata, and that notorious terrorist incident also flashes through my mind.
However, I’ve heard that Mineta wrote this song as a heartbreak song based on his experience of breaking up with someone he loved in September.
It’s one of those masterpieces I’d love for you to listen to in September.
Promise in Madder Redikimonogakari
Akane-iro no Yakusoku is a song written and composed by Mizuno, themed around weddings.
As you might expect from the wedding theme, listening to it as a couple brings to mind the time you’ve shared and the future ahead.
It’s a very warm song that gently tugs at the heart.
With “akane-iro” (madder red) in the title, it’s also perfect for listening while looking up at an autumn sky dyed by the evening sunset.
Please try listening to it with someone special.
At vocalist Yoshioka’s brother’s wedding, it was performed in an acoustic version.
September RainŌta Hiromi
When it comes to songs for September, Hiromi Ota’s “Kugatsu no Ame” (“September Rain”) comes to mind.
Its slightly mysterious sound arrangement paired with Ota’s feminine vocals makes it a captivating track.
The lyrics embody the quintessential worldview of Japanese kayōkyoku of the era, and both musically and lyrically there’s so much to savor.
It’s an autumn rain number you’ll want to immerse yourself in, fully absorbing its mood as you listen.