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

You are 1000%.1986 omega toraibu

You are 1000%.

As BGM to color a summer drive, ‘80s city pop is an unmissable choice.

The debut single released in May 1986 by 1986 Omega Tribe is a quintessential masterpiece, its urbane, sophisticated soundscape blending exquisitely with the sweet, wistful vocals of Japanese-Brazilian singer Carlos Toshiki to set listeners’ hearts aflutter.

As the title suggests, it conveys a passionate, unwavering devotion that can’t be captured by percentages, resonating in your chest alongside shimmering synthesizers.

The track is also included on their debut album of the same year, Navigator, and was beloved as the theme song for the NTV drama “Shin: Netchū Jidai Sengen.” It’s a perfect match for cruising along the coast with the sea breeze on your face, or for a romantic twilight drive.

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!

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.

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.

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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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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You and the summer music festivalSHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “You and the Summer Festival”

On a summer festival date, the protagonist gets completely absorbed in the voice of their favorite rock star—only to glance over and see their partner looking put off.

This fresh, breezy track by SHISHAMO captures the budding feelings of love that begin with a misstep.

Released in July 2014, it captured many hearts, topping FM802’s OSAKAN HOT 100 for five consecutive weeks.

It’s a song that stands by anyone in love who wants their crush to understand their hobbies—but worries they might be turned off.

Listen to it on a drive, and it’s sure to become part of a special summer memory.