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

SPARKLEYamashita Tatsuro

Tatsuro Yamashita “SPARKLE” Music Video (2023)

That classic by Tatsuro Yamashita, which kicks off with that striking guitar cutting, seems to whisk listeners straight into the sparkle of summer in an instant, doesn’t it? Included on the masterpiece FOR YOU, released in January 1982, its sophisticated sound and resort-like atmosphere perfectly embody the catchphrase, “It’s summer, it’s the sea, it’s Tatsuro!” The album FOR YOU debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon chart, became a massive hit with around 700,000 copies sold, and won a Best 10 Albums award at the 24th Japan Record Awards.

Its timeless appeal continues to be loved—so much so that a music video was even produced in 2023.

It’s the perfect BGM to elevate that sense of freedom when you’re driving along the summer coastline!

Nagisaimase

【imase】Nagisa（MV）

A pleasantly soothing track wrapped in the freshness of summer.

Influenced by ’80s city pop, this song features lyrics from a woman’s perspective—faint and bittersweet like a shoreline.

It delicately portrays the highs of love, its struggles, and its aching poignancy, resonating deeply with listeners.

imase reportedly listened through nearly a hundred city pop songs in preparation for making this track.

The music video expresses a retro ’80s aesthetic, perfectly matching the music and visuals.

Brimming with a sense of speed that makes you want to roll down the windows and drive along the coast, why not make this exhilarating song your companion for your next drive?

Remember Summer DaysAnri

ANRI Anri / Remember Summer Days

It’s a song by Anri that, on a seaside where the autumn breeze brushes the skin, gently awakens the dazzling light of a summer gone by and the faint memories of a love that lingers in the heart.

The image of the protagonist standing alone as if chasing the shadow of that summer, and the feeling that leads them back to the same place with a heart in turmoil, will quietly seep into the listener’s chest.

Released in December 1983, this track is included on the classic album “Timely!!,” which debuted at No.

1 on the Oricon chart, and its sophisticated AOR sound produced by Toshiki Kadomatsu is truly pleasant.

If you listen to it on the drive home from a summer outing, when you want to indulge in a slightly sentimental mood, you’ll surely be drawn into the nostalgic world the song evokes.

The hottest summer in the worldPurinsesu Purinsesu

Princess Princess 'The Hottest Summer in the World'

In the season when the sun blazes brilliantly, there’s nothing better for a drive with the windows down, feeling the wind, than that classic tune by Princess Princess.

The energetic band sound, Kaori Kishitani’s soaring vocals, and the heart-pounding, catchy melody feel like they’re celebrating the arrival of summer.

The original version was released in July 1987 as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s “Sekai Dokkiri Watch,” followed by a newly recorded, beefed-up version in July 1989 as the theme for the same network’s “Itsuka Iku Tabi.” The latter went on to sell over 860,000 copies.

It’s the perfect soundtrack to create the ultimate summer vibe when you want to boost your spirits—like in the car on the way to the beach with friends.

GlintHY

HY – “Kirari” Music Video

This is an exhilarating uptempo track that conjures up shining scenes of summer sun, the sea, and fireworks.

Released in June 2022 and later included on the album “Kafuu,” it was written as the campaign song for Lawson’s “Cooling Sweets.” The refreshing feeling of eating a sweet treat perfectly links with the excitement of summer; just listening makes your heart feel lighter and inspires you to head outside.

It’s recommended for when you want to start something new or refresh your mood.

Over DriveJUDY AND MARY

Judy And Mary – Over Drive (Live 2000)

When it comes to songs that blow away the sweltering summer heat, ‘Over Drive’ is the one.

Released in 1995 by the rock band JUDY AND MARY, known for their signature hit ‘Sobakasu,’ it delivers a passionate band sound with a simple instrumental setup that truly hits home.

The nostalgic lyrics that evoke the fleeting nature of summer and YUKI’s pure vocals are a perfect match.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced sound is sure to liven up the car interior! A refreshing yet slightly melancholic melody line makes this track especially captivating.

Be sure to give it a listen on a sunny-day drive.

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mutō

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Shanghai HoneyORANGE RANGE

ORANGE RANGE – Shanghai Honey

This is a song said to be one of the works that helped cement ORANGE RANGE’s image as a summer band.

Throughout the track, you can clearly feel a dazzling energy, as if someone is fully enjoying the summer sea.

While it has momentum, the tempo is calm enough to avoid an overpowering sense of speed, evoking a gentle atmosphere like surrendering yourself to the waves.

The light, memorable lyrics portray various feelings about summer and convey a bright determination to make the season fun.

It’s the kind of song that would lift your spirits if you listened to it while driving toward the ocean.

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kappamaki

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