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 the End of Summer and Early Autumn (41–50)
scale (as of a fish or reptile)Hata Motohiro
Singer-songwriter Motohiro Hata, who has won fans across a wide range of listeners with a voice described as “made of steel and glass,” combining gentle clarity with inner strength.
Released in June 2007, this song portrays a protagonist who had been shut inside their shell mustering the courage to convey their feelings to someone important.
Its worldview—singing of the restless anxiety at summer’s end and the resolve to take a step forward—will add an emotional touch to any karaoke gathering.
Chosen as the image song for a Nippon TV documentary program, its music video also won an award at the SPACE SHOWER Music Video Awards 08.
The high notes in the chorus aren’t easy, but if you sing them openly, as though expressing the story’s climax, they’re sure to resonate with listeners.
[Songs to Listen to in September] Popular J-POP Tracks That Evoke the End of Summer and Early Autumn (51–60)
language of flowersMr.Children
A gemlike ballad woven by Mr.Children that portrays the pain of parting and the growth it brings.
Using the cosmos flower’s language of flowers as a motif, it gently sings of the heartache of a broken heart and the lessons learned from it.
Included on the album “Shifuku no Oto,” released in April 2004, this piece is a masterpiece in which Kazutoshi Sakurai’s delicate vocals and the band’s exquisite performance resonate deeply.
It’s a song that offers new insights with every listen—truly a companion that runs alongside your life.
On a full-moon nightaimyon
A song by Aimyon that sensually portrays an intimate relationship between two people, set on a full-moon night.
Written from a male perspective, the lyrics spark the listener’s imagination.
Like melting ice cream, it depicts the way their feelings blend together.
Released in February 2019 as Aimyon’s fourth single, it’s a recommended track for anyone struggling with love or relationships.
Listening from late summer into autumn will surely stir a sweet sadness and resonate in your heart.
OrangeSMAP
It’s one of those classic ballads you want to hear in autumn, with a poignant yet warm piano melody that brings twilight scenery vividly to mind and gently soaks into the heart.
SMAP has many great songs, but this is one that many people might single out as especially special.
It depicts a breakup scene with a lover, yet its appeal lies in the fact that it’s not merely sad.
Concluding the farewell by deliberately replacing parting words with words of gratitude conveys a deep affection for the days they spent together and makes your heart swell.
There’s also a well-known story that the lyrics were changed at Takuya Kimura’s suggestion during the August 2000 recording.
Although it was a B-side to the single “Lion Heart,” its popularity earned it a place on their best-of album—a true gem of a ballad.
Ballad of a SingerSaitō Kazuyoshi
A signature song by Kazuyoshi Saito, beloved for years and covered by many artists.
The lyrics portray the story of a singer who can only convey his true feelings through song—beautiful and piercing straight to the heart.
The earnest desire to express simple, straightforward words of love—ones too embarrassing to say in everyday life—resonates deeply when carried by the music.
Released as a single in November 1997, the song was also chosen as the theme for the 2017 animated film Lu Over the Wall.
The acoustic guitar tones and unadorned vocals are both aching and warm.
That indescribable feeling that seeps into your chest seems perfect for the autumn air after the bustle of summer has faded.
It’s a gem of a ballad you’ll want to savor while thinking of someone dear.
rememberUru
This is a grand ballad by the highly skilled singer Uru, who gained attention by posting many cover videos on YouTube and went on to make her major-label debut.
Her expansive, clear voice enhances the song’s qualities, making it a captivating track with outstanding vocals.
It also serves as the theme song for the Natsume’s Book of Friends anime film, so many people may have discovered it through the anime.
Sigh CloverKOTOKO
A bittersweet love song for early autumn.
Her charming, mysterious voice only deepens the sense of longing.
The fast tempo captures a woman’s feelings she can no longer hold back.
If you’re still carrying a summer crush with the same feelings, this song might give you a push.
Rather than a tune for autumn introspection, it may be one that gives you the courage to chase the one you love.
