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 (41–50)

My Cherie AmourStevie Wonder

My Cherie Amour

My Cherie AmourStevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s celebrated ballad “My Cherie Amour” is a classic that sings of deep love and yearning for a sweetheart.

Released in 1969, the song is said to be based on Stevie’s personal experiences, expressing his feelings for his then-girlfriend, Syreeta Wright, through its beautiful melody.

The lyrics, which portray an affection for a woman as lovely as a summer’s day alongside the ache of feeling she is as distant as the stars, captivate listeners and never let go.

With a universal message that resonates with those in love and those who are not, this piece stands as one of Stevie’s signature songs, and it’s easy to see why it remains beloved by so many.

It’s a perfect track to play when you want to express love to someone special or create a romantic atmosphere.

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[2026] Classic Western songs to listen to on Tanabata: love songs about stars and the Milky Way (51–60)

StarlightTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Starlight (Taylor’s Version) (Lyric Video)

StarlightTaylor Swift

It’s a signature song by Taylor Swift that depicts a magical night spent with a lover under the starry sky.

Inspired by the youthful love story of the Kennedy couple, the track is featured on the album Red and was released in 2012.

Its sweet melody and heartfelt lyrics lift the listener’s spirits.

It’s perfect for Tanabata night and also recommended as background music for a nighttime drive under the stars.

Not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to bask in a romantic mood.

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In conclusion

Have you found any favorites among the many classic Western songs perfect for Tanabata? Songs about stars and starry skies are easy to picture, but it’s interesting that some tracks themed around the “Milky Way” approach it from perspectives different from ours as Japanese. If any songs catch your fancy, be sure to check the lyrics and savor them closely!