[Summer Classics] When it comes to summer, it’s got to be this song! A roundup from timeless staples to the latest hit tracks.

Summer memories scented by the windAAA

AAA / “Summer Memories Fragrant on the Breeze” Music Video

A song whose bittersweet yet beautiful melody seeps into the heart, like recalling an old love in a fleeting moment on a summer evening.

Don’t the memories AAA sings of—days of summer now gone and a fragile romance—spread through your chest like a pale watercolor? The track was included as the B-side to AAA’s single “Wake up!” released in July 2014, and later featured on the album “GOLD SYMPHONY” released the same year, as well as the following year’s best-of collection “AAA 10th ANNIVERSARY BEST.” It was used in Ito-Yokado’s yukata commercial, coloring the memories of many alongside the sights and sounds of summer.

For those who want to soak in a sentimental mood at summer’s end, this song will gently stay by your side, bringing you close to those sweet-and-sour memories of days gone by.

ultra soulB’z

B’z / ultra soul

B’z’s 31st single, released in 2001.

Even more than 20 years later, it’s still frequently used as a theme song in various settings and is a hot, timeless track embraced by a wide range of generations.

It’s a rock tune that blends guitar-driven sound with techno and Latin flavors, carrying the driving energy that lives up to its title and radiates a fiery spirit.

It’s also a motivational anthem that gives a strong push to anyone striving forward—so sing it out and blow away the summer heat!

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Youth and youth and youthaimyon

Aimyon – Youth and Youth and Youth [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is a song by Aimyon that was used in 2021 as the commercial theme for Kirin Beer’s “Tanrei Green Label.” The track originally appeared on her single “Kimi wa Rock wo Kikanai,” released in August 2017.

The imagery of a love for someone you can only meet in dreams mingling with the languid air of summer is striking.

Many listeners likely relate to those bittersweet feelings that resurface from everyday triggers—like how the smell of curry can make you feel fond of someone.

Perhaps the song’s true meaning resonates even more deeply when you listen to it as an adult.

Live the summerRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Living the Summer” Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai

This is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai that portrays the brilliance of summer and the strength of the people who live within it.

It combines a cider-like freshness with the resilience to stand up even when covered in mud, and it just might give courage to those who listen.

Not only the sparkle of youth, but also the earnest effort and passion behind it, come through on a driving, exhilarating sound.

Released in July 2020, the track is widely known as the theme song for tvk’s “RIDE OF KANAGAWA 2020 High School Baseball.” A special edition centered around this song was also included in the album “SINGALONG,” released in September of the same year.

It’s an uplifting anthem that gives you a strong push forward when you’re taking on a challenge or feeling a bit worn out by the summer heat.

Emo-ish summerLucky Kilimanjaro

Emo-ish summer

An emotional number by Lucky Kilimanjaro that vividly brings summertime scenes to mind.

The shimmering tones of the synthesizer and the breezy rhythm paint a bright picture of the early thrills of romance and the unstoppable swell of emotion.

The lyrics capture a heart swaying in the special atmosphere of summer, wrapping listeners in a feeling that’s a little bittersweet yet warm.

Released as a single in July 2020, the track built anticipation as a follow-up to their major-label first album, “!magination.” Its exposure on NTV’s Sukkiri and as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s Netapare further raised its profile.

It also received extensive radio play, including three consecutive weeks in the TOP 5 on J-WAVE’s TOKIO HOT 100.

It’s a perfect song to listen to while relaxing by the seaside to the sound of waves, or in the sentimental mood of twilight.

Give it a listen in those kinds of moments.

Let’s Go to the Sea (feat. PES)Lisa Halim

Let's Go to the Sea (feat. PES)

This is surf music with a groovy Latin-style rhythm that resonates alongside the sound of waves, creating a soothing vibe.

Lisa Halim’s husky yet gentle vocals blend seamlessly with the cool rap of PES, formerly of RIP SLYME, richly evoking a longing for the ocean and memories of summer.

Produced by DJ HASEBE, the track was released as a digital-only single in October 2020 and drew attention after being featured on major Spotify playlists.

It’s the perfect song for a drive to the beach or when you want to look back on summer memories.

H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer When You Were There~ZONE

ZONE “H.A.N.A.B.I ~The Summer You Were There~” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

This song is as vivid as a grand firework blazing across the night sky, yet its melody carries a certain fleeting poignancy that leaves a strong impression.

It conjures images of summer romances gone by, shrine grounds, and sunsets—many listeners may feel a tightness in their chest as they listen.

This work is a single released by the girls’ band ZONE in July 2003, marking their milestone tenth major release.

It was issued at the time as a strictly limited edition of 100,000 copies, debuted at No.

3 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, and received Gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.

It’s the perfect track for savoring the lingering afterglow of a summer festival or reflecting on tender memories.