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 (51–60)
Ms. SeptemberAimer
Aimer’s husky, warm vocals gently accompany the loneliness of summer’s end in this cover song.
Delicately portraying the bittersweet feeling of “cherishing the passing seasons” along with sparkling memories of youth, the piece has drawn a big response on TikTok, where nostalgic videos praise it as “perfect for summer scenery.” The original song is by the rock band RADWIMPS.
It was included on the single “Chouchou Musubi,” released in August 2016, whose title track was also used as a theme song for an information program.
If you listen closely by yourself at summer’s end, precious memories you’d forgotten may suddenly resurface in your heart.
Sea in SeptemberGushima Naoko
This song, September Sea, by singer-songwriter Naoko Gushima is themed around the month of September.
Its drowsy, gentle rhythm and her clear, expansive vocals create a uniquely atmospheric world.
Rather than depicting the lively, sparkling sea of midsummer, the choice to title it September Sea suggests an intention you can grasp by engaging with the lyrics and the music—try to understand what that choice conveys.
Autumn breezeOzaki Yutaka
It’s a song sung by singer-songwriter Yutaka Ozaki that seems to portray the transition of the seasons from summer to autumn.
Originally, there was an unreleased recording of a solo guitar-and-vocal performance; this version was created by extracting Ozaki’s vocals and adding an orchestral arrangement by Katsuhisa Hattori.
The grand yet warm sound resonates memorably, conveying both a tender affection for the passing summer days and a sense of hope for the new season ahead.
It depicts the changing scenes that come with the shift from summer to autumn, evoking an image of someone moving forward despite a feeling of loneliness.
osmanthus (fragrant orange osmanthus; sweet olive)natori
As Natori’s first original song, this track is included on the album “Gekijō” (Theater).
Even before its digital release in August 2023, the demo had been drawing attention, and many fans were surely eagerly awaiting the finished version.
The sound—where a driving, jazzy arrangement intertwines with a finely honed whispery vocal—vividly evokes a scene where the stillness of night intersects with the scent of fragrant olive.
The emotions and narratives embedded in the lyrics invite each listener’s own interpretation, giving the song a depth that makes you want to revisit it again and again.
It’s a sophisticated pop tune, perfect for savoring on long autumn nights.
[Songs to listen to in September] Popular J-POP tracks that evoke the end of summer and early autumn (61–70)
The world is quietly beautiful.creeps
It’s a beautiful song that draws you in, starting with a quietly flowing intro.
There’s something irresistible about how it slips into your heart just as the air begins to feel like autumn.
The high-tone voice of the vocalist, Akira Takeuchi, lingers in your ears.
It’s a perfect track for autumn, a season that makes you reflective—pay attention to the lyrics that encourage you to look at yourself and feel yourself changing.
Highly recommended for anyone who wants to take a moment for self-reflection!
September Blue MoonMatsutōya Yumi
A classic from Yumi Matsutoya’s electro era, this track stands out with its dazzling, rapid-fire sound arrangement that hits your ears in quick succession.
Yet once Yuming’s signature vocals come in, it instantly becomes a full-on Yuming world—fun and familiar.
Set to a Latin rhythm with Japanese lyrics on top, it’s a rhythmically danceable, slightly quirky, and highly addictive number.
I remember youYUI
As summer draws to a close, it’s only natural to want to listen to one of YUI’s classic songs.
Released in September 2006, this piece is deeply connected to the film “Midnight Sun” (Taiyo no Uta), in which YUI herself starred.
It was produced during the film’s preview tour and is said to have been written with the image of a character reminiscing about a beloved person.
The unforgettable feelings for someone precious who can no longer be seen are sung with a heartrending melody that truly tightens the chest.
The song is also included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE,” among others.
How about it for a long autumn night spent basking in memories of summers past, or as a companion for a slightly sentimental drive?