BGM for summer drives: A roundup of songs that feel like summer [2026]

Summer GhostI Don’t Like Mondays.

Summer Ghost (Lyric Video)

With a breezy exhilaration like wind rushing through and an irresistibly buoyant groove that gets your body moving, this track is the perfect pick to color a midsummer drive.

In the lyrics’ world, memories of a fleeting summer romance return vividly, shimmering like a heat haze.

Released by I Don’t Like Mondays.

in July 2023 as part of a series of consecutive digital releases, the song is also included on the album RUNWAY.

It was chosen as the campaign song for the women’s underwear brand sloggi, and its lyric video—shot in Barcelona—also drew attention.

Whether it’s a sun-drenched weekend drive, cruising along the coastline, or an evening ride at dusk, it’s an ideal soundtrack for moments when you want to bask in summer memories.

Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

WANIMA "Somewhere in the Summer" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

An exhilarating track with a refreshing, chest-clearing feel and a melody that evokes an endlessly open blue sky! This song celebrates a positive mindset that shakes off doubt and shines like the summer sun, and sings about the importance of following your inner compass and taking on challenges in your own way.

It’s a track by WANIMA, a three-piece rock band from Kumamoto, included on their fifth single “Summer Trap!!” released in July 2019.

As the theme for Asahi Soft Drinks’ Mitsuya Cider commercial featuring Suzu Hirose, it probably stuck in many people’s ears.

Roll down the windows and blast it on a summer drive for an instant mood boost! It’s also the perfect anthem to cheer you on when you want to take a new step or achieve something with your friends.

August NightSairento Sairen

[Silent Siren] 'August Night' MUSIC VIDEO full ver. [Silent Siren]

If you want to savor that thrill of the moment when love starts to take off on a summer night, Silent Siren’s world might be just what you’re looking for.

Their sound rides on an up-tempo rock beat at BPM 188—like it’s syncing with your heartbeat—vividly capturing that bittersweet sense of anticipation that words can’t quite express but makes you feel something is about to begin.

The melody, originally a ballad, was reborn with a driving arrangement, creating a richly flavored fusion of the slightly calm atmosphere unique to summer nights and the searing heat of rock.

Released in August 2015 as their 10th single, the track reached No.

8 on the Oricon Weekly Chart.

It was also featured as the theme for Vantan Design Institute’s “Summer Seminar” commercial, bringing it to many ears.

Put it on during the drive back with someone you’re interested in, let the night breeze in, and it just might be the perfect BGM to bring the two of you closer.

Nagisasupittsu

Spitz / Nagisa

An unforgettable classic with a melody that blends freshness and bittersweet longing, vividly summoning scenes of summer! The poetic world spun by Masamune Kusano may seem like a summer love story at first glance, but beneath the surface lies a profound theme where reality and fantasy intersect.

Nostalgia for days gone by and the faint light of a protagonist who still tries to look ahead gently resonate with listeners’ hearts.

Released as a Spitz single in September 1996, the track was included the following year on the album Indigo Chiheisen (Indigo Horizon).

Many will also remember it fondly as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Koi Monogatari.” Its shimmering sound makes it perfect for summer drive playlists, and it’s an ideal companion for cruising along the seaside at twilight or for a solo trip when you want to indulge in a bit of quiet reflection.

SUMMER BREEZEgo!go!vanillas

go!go!vanillas – SUMMER BREEZE Music Video

The track by go!go!vanillas that feels like opening the door to midsummer is a summer rock anthem that makes your heart dance just by listening.

While grounded in their signature rock ’n’ roll, the song features a refreshingly cool sound that delves further into elements of Western rock and folk, letting you catch an early taste of midsummer from the fresh-green season.

Released in May 2018 as one of the double A-side single “SUMMER BREEZE / Stand by Me,” it was also selected as the opening theme for Nippon TV’s “Buzz Rhythm 02” that same month.

The release was widely embraced by listeners, peaking at No.

20 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Open the windows and feel the breeze as you drive along the coast, or play it in the car on your way to a lively barbecue with friends—either way, it will help you create the best summer memories.

A Little Love SongMONGOL800

A Small Love Song – MONGOL800 | With Lyrics

This is a timeless song by MONGOL800, whose straightforward lyrics and exhilarating, fast-paced melody strike a chord.

Portraying the warmth of having someone precious right by your side and a clear hope for the future, this piece gently accompanies listeners in their everyday lives.

The song is included on the album “MESSAGE,” released in September 2001, which, despite being an indie release, sold over 2.8 million copies.

It has served as a motif for films and as an ending theme for TV anime, making it a track beloved across generations.

Be sure to give it a listen during summer drives or while spending time with friends.

End of the Summer RetreatWurtS

WurtS – Summer’s End (Official Audio)

WurtS’s work, which deftly paints bittersweet summer scenes, is drawing attention as the perfect choice when you want to sink into an emo mood.

This piece captures the wavering emotions characteristic of one’s mid-twenties and the melancholy of summer’s end, expressed through a sound that fuses polished city pop with alternative influences.

The theme, inspired by Buddhist terminology, adds further depth.

The track is included on the EP “MAGICAL SOUP,” released in June 2021, and WurtS later provided a song for Toyota’s Corolla commercial.

Be sure to savor it alongside the lyrics during a summer sunset or whenever you find yourself seeking a moment of release.