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

Beautiful finsupittsu

Spitz / Beautiful Fin

Released in April 2023 as the theme song for the film Detective Conan: Black Iron Submarine, this track is a clear, translucent work themed around an oceanic worldview.

Through the symbolic expression “beautiful fins” depicted by Masamune Kusano’s delicate vocals, a profound world emerges where fragility and hope intersect.

As Spitz’s first tie-in with the Conan series, the song debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and has been beloved by many fans.

It’s recommended for seaside drives in summer or for quiet nights when you want to calm your mind.

Stars swimmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “Hoshi ga Oyogu” MV

Powerfully voicing the anxiety of summer and the defiance of fate, this track is a true masterpiece of fast-paced summer rock.

Released by Macaroni Enpitsu in April 2022, it was written as the opening theme for the TV anime “Summer Time Rendering.” The lyrics portray feelings for a lost loved one, a sense of bereavement, and the struggle to confront destiny, carrying a profound message centered on a fate that vanishes fleetingly like fireworks.

With its robust rock sound, the song evokes the beginning of a story and a sense of uplift, making it a guaranteed mood-booster when listened to in the summer season.

Mela!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Mela!' Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Mela!

This song celebrates the heart of someone who keeps their inner passion burning.

The lyrics portray the impulse born from the pure wish to “become a hero,” and the courage to act driven by that feeling, stirring the hearts of listeners.

Released digitally in April 2020, it was featured in Darya’s “Palty Coloring” commercial, and later adopted as a JRA commercial song in 2025.

It was also chosen as the theme for a dance project supporting high school dance teams across Japan who lost opportunities to perform during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving courage to many young people.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced feel makes it especially appealing to listen to in the summer.

NEW ERANulbarich

Nulbarich – NEW ERA (Official Music Video)

This track features a sophisticated sound that blends soul and funk to exquisite effect, resonating pleasantly throughout.

Included on the album “Guess Who?” released in October 2016, it was used in a commercial for Honda’s GRACE, which rapidly boosted Nulbarich’s popularity.

The song carries a positive message that hints at the dawn of a new era, with lyrics weaving together English and Japanese for a distinctive appeal.

A wave-like, undulating bassline and light, breezy drum beats create a relaxed seaside vibe, making it perfect for casual settings like drives or gatherings with friends.

Midsummer MomentRYUSENKEI

RYUSENKEI – Summer Ray (Official Music Video)

A mellow sound that evokes summer memories, where the warm resonance of the Rhodes piano intertwines exquisitely with Sincere’s translucent vocals.

Released as a single in May 2025, the track encapsulates the charm of the reborn RYUSENKEI by Kunimond Takiguchi and Sincere.

It comes in two formats: digital distribution and a strictly limited 7-inch vinyl.

The B-side of the vinyl includes the 2025 remix version of “Time Traveler.” Perfect for a seaside drive or a relaxed summer evening.

Come DownYo-Sea · MuKuRo

Come Down

Like a breeze from Okinawa, this track by Yo-Sea and MuKuRo feels perfect for your summer playlist.

Yo-Sea’s sweet, wistful vocals and MuKuRo’s rhythmic flow layer over HOLLY’s wave-evoking production, wrapping you in a sense of calm the moment you press play.

Originally included on the compilation album “098RADIO vol.1 Hosted by Awich” in March 2023, the song later received a remix featuring Awich herself, released on “098RADIO vol.2 Hosted by Awich” in August 2024.

Whether you’re chilling by the beach at sunset or heading out for a drive, it’s guaranteed to set the mood just right.

If you want to soak in Okinawa’s vibes, this is a sound we highly recommend.

sunflowerAdo

[Ado] Sunflower

A song brimming with hope for a bright future, like a sunflower stretching straight toward the sun.

It vividly portrays the feelings of a protagonist striving to live positively, and the bond with a cherished person who gently gives them a push forward.

Featuring Ado’s strikingly emotional vocals, this piece is recommended for those seeking the courage to gradually change their timid selves or to reflect on supportive relationships.

It’s a heartwarming track that quietly stays close to your heart, especially when listened to at the start of summer.