Lovely summer song

[2026] Classic Western songs to listen to on Tanabata: love songs about stars and the Milky Way

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
POPS writer/editorKEI
Since discovering music during my school days, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. I have experience writing articles for sites like Utaten. 2000s J-pop and 2010s K-pop were especially the soundtrack of my youth. With the mindset that “good is good,” I enjoy music across genres. Thanks to past work environments and their influence, I was exposed to lots of classic rock and kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), which may have broadened the scope of what I love. At RAG MUSIC, I currently focus on K-pop and J-pop. I strive to edit with a feel for the scene and an eye for hit potential.

When it comes to events in July, many people probably think of Tanabata first, but in fact, Tanabata is a Chinese festival that was introduced to Japan during the Nara period.

In the West, it’s said that there are also customs of celebrating Tanabata in places like the United States via Japan, and there are several songs themed around the Milky Way, which is indispensable to Tanabata.

So this time, under the theme of classic Western songs you’ll want to listen to on Tanabata, we’ll introduce tracks that sing about the Milky Way, the starry sky, and the stars.

We’ve also picked songs that mention the Milky Way in their lyrics, so you might make some unexpected discoveries.

[2026] Classic Western songs to listen to on Tanabata: love songs about stars and the Milky Way (31–40)

Sally RideJanelle Monáe

Sally Ride

Sally RideJanelle Monáe

Like the twinkling stars that color the Tanabata night sky, this song sets your heart aflutter.

It’s a track from Janelle Monáe’s second studio album, The Electric Lady, and it bears the name of Sally Ride, the first American woman in space.

Blending retro soul and funk elements with a modern R&B sound, it showcases Monáe’s energetic and emotionally rich vocals.

The lyrics are said to emphasize the importance of overcoming societal constraints and living true to oneself.

On a Tanabata night, listening to this song while gazing at the stars with someone special will surely become a cherished memory.

It’s a masterpiece that lets you sink into a romantic mood.

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Constant As The Stars AboveJessica Brown

Barbie – “Constant As The Stars Above” (Official Audio)

Constant As The Stars AboveJessica Brown

A moving song that graces the ending of the film Barbie as Rapunzel.

American singer Jessica Brown’s striking vocals leave a strong impression.

Comparing eternal, unchanging love to the stars, its lyrics portray a mother’s unconditional love for her child, evoking deep emotion.

Since its 2002 release, this ballad has continued to resonate with many.

Accompanied by the beautiful performance of the London Symphony Orchestra, it powerfully expresses the film’s themes of dreams and hope.

It’s a perfect song to listen to on Tanabata night while thinking of someone special.

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Spaceship CoupeJustin Timberlake

Spaceship Coupe

Spaceship CoupeJustin Timberlake

“Spaceship Coupe” is a thrilling pop number by American multi-hyphenate Justin Timberlake, included on his 2013 album The 20/20 Experience.

Comparing a lovers’ elopement to a spaceship, its lyrics paint a romantic world that feels like the two of you are traveling through the Tanabata night sky—fantastical and dreamy.

Its distinctive sound and Timberlake’s sultry vocals whisk listeners away to a far-off galaxy.

The album was a smash hit, debuting at number one on the U.S.

charts.

Why not add this song to those special moments you spend with someone special?

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You Were Meant For MeLalah Hathaway

You Were Meant For Me

You Were Meant For MeLalah Hathaway

Lalah Hathaway is an American soul singer and the daughter of vocalist Donny Hathaway.

Her 2011 release, “You Were Meant For Me,” is a song filled with romantic feelings for a loved one.

Its soft, R&B-inflected melody is striking, and you can also experience classical elements that unfold alongside her soulful vocals.

It’s a love song with a message that resonates whether you’re in love or not.

Give it a listen on Tanabata, a day when everyone makes heartfelt wishes.

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Better DaysLiam Gallagher

Liam Gallagher – Better Days (Official Video)

Better DaysLiam Gallagher

Liam Gallagher, a singer-songwriter who is also known for serving as the frontman of Oasis—an indispensable band when talking about the UK rock scene.

His 2022 track Better Days is a song that evokes the beginning of a new chapter.

The expansive, grand band sound leaves a strong impression, and his one-of-a-kind cool vocals are a highlight.

Spurred by Tanabata wishes, it’s a number that might make you want to fall in love again—be sure to give it a listen.

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In producing this article

Editorial Policy

Because festivals like Tanabata, which are celebrated in Japan and other East Asian countries, are not as widespread in the West, I’ve curated a selection of Western songs suited to Tanabata through my lens as a music writer. I strive to create an engaging article that helps readers understand the different perspectives from which the Milky Way and the stars are perceived.

KOH-1 (music writer)

KEI (POPS writer/editor)

[Evidence]

[About the order of publication]

Based on the editorial team’s research results, the final decision also takes into account the total number of your “Rank Up” and “Rank Down” button presses.

[Update History]

June 4, 2025: Added and updated 15 reviews and refreshed the entire article.
June 7, 2024: Added and updated 15 reviews and refreshed the entire article.
July 4, 2023: Added/updated 11 reviews and updated the entire article.
May 13, 2022: Added/updated 10 reviews.
June 1, 2018: Published the article.