A song by a rock band bursting with exhilarating energy and a sense of speed that you want to listen to in the summer.
Every summer, countless music festivals are held all over the country, and I imagine many rock band fans feel that summer is the season of music.
In fact, many Japanese rock songs are themed around summer, so you could say rock and summer are inseparable! In this article, we’ll introduce a selection of Japanese rock tracks that are perfect for the summer, all in one go.
From fiery, hype-inducing tunes to refreshingly exhilarating tracks, we’ve picked songs to match whatever situation you want to listen in—so find the perfect track for your mood.
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Songs full of exhilarating, fast-paced energy from rock bands you’ll want to hear in the summer (1–10)
lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE
This song packs a sense of exhilarating, fast-paced guitar rock with the bittersweetness of youth.
It was selected as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery” in April 2024, marking Mrs.
GREEN APPLE’s first anime tie-in in about five years.
Created by Motoki Ohmori with the feeling of an answer song to “Ao to Natsu,” the track features striking, technically intricate guitar riffs that signal a return to the band’s roots.
The lyrics explore the finiteness of life, the struggles of adolescence, and the importance of loving one’s imperfect self.
It’s a refreshingly uplifting song, perfect for those who want to get fired up at summer festivals or reminisce about their youth.
BBQ Riot SongELLEGARDEN
Since their 2018 return to activity, ELLEGARDEN, a four-piece rock band that continues to influence countless musicians, has remained at the forefront of the scene.
“BBQ Riot Song,” which closes out the 4th album that made the band widely known, RIOT ON THE GRILL, kicks the energy up from the very first moment with an arrangement that jumps straight to top speed.
As the title suggests, the BBQ-themed lyrics make it a perfect soundtrack for a summer vacation.
It’s a fiery summer song that makes you want to sprint through the season with its exhilarating ensemble.
sea glasssutoreitenaa
Straightener made their major debut in 2003.
They’re a four-piece rock band.
Their song “Seaglass” was released in 2016 and is included on the album GOLD DISC.
It’s a track that feels like the end of summer coming into view.
The bittersweet sound is lonely yet comforting, isn’t it? The rock-like sense of speed also makes the song’s atmosphere even cooler.
The end of summer can feel sad, yet it also puts you in an indescribably strange mood.
This song is recommended for anyone who wants to soak in those feelings.
Songs brimming with freshness and a sense of speed from rock bands you’ll want to listen to in summer (11–20)
You, the Sheep, and the BlueRADWIMPS
This song overflows with dazzling passion and a sense of exhilarating drive.
Included on the 2011 album “Zettai Zetsumei,” it was chosen as the theme for NHK’s soccer broadcasts and captured the hearts of many during J.League and Emperor’s Cup coverage.
It carries a powerful message: miracles aren’t something you wait for—they’re something you create with your own hands—encouraging a spirit of challenge.
The up-tempo rock sound and impassioned lyrics fuse beautifully, delivering a performance that shakes the listener to the core.
It’s a perfect track for those who want to feel the rush of summer or are striving toward a goal.
Emo-ish summerLucky Kilimanjaro
This song, which depicts a bittersweet yet refreshing summer romance, was released by Lucky Kilimanjaro in July 2020.
Set to an electropop rhythm, it beautifully captures special summer moments and the exhilaration of love.
The striking title, “Emotional Summer,” vividly conveys the coexistence of youthful anxiety and anticipation.
It was also featured in a JTB commercial, drawing attention as a perfect track for making summer memories.
It’s a breezy tune you’ll want to play while driving or relaxing by the seaside.
FLY AGAIN 2019MAN WITH A MISSION
Summer is the season for events, isn’t it? So here’s my recommendation for BGM when you want to hype things up: a track by MAN WITH A MISSION, the so-called wolf band.
It’s a song included on their 2011 single “NEVER FXXKIN’ MIND THE RULES,” and the version I’m introducing here is the 2019 edition.
It’s an anthem that’s extremely popular at live shows and festivals.
Trace that dreamYOASOBI
This song by YOASOBI beautifully portrays fireworks blooming in the summer night sky and budding romance.
The piano performance and wistful vocals are striking, giving it a refreshing feel as if capturing a fleeting moment of youth.
The wavering emotions of the two protagonists, caught between dreams and reality, are expressed through Ikura’s soaring voice.
Released in January 2021, the track drew attention as it was featured in an Otsuka Pharmaceutical commercial and as a movie theme song.
It has also surpassed 100 million streams, showcasing its popularity.
Highly recommended for those who want to reminisce about a summer romance or feel nostalgic about their youth.