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

everything; the whole lot; lock, stock, and barrelKREVA

everything; the whole lot; lock, stock, and barrel

A healing summer song by KREVA that blends the languid feel of a hot afternoon with a refreshing breeze.

You dream of a resort, yet end up relaxing at home after all.

It conjures up an unpretentious snapshot of summer.

And maybe being with someone special is enough to make you happy, even without anything extraordinary—that’s the kind of love-filled touch KREVA brings to this track.

Released in June 2005, it was also used as a TV show ending theme.

Its comfortable beat and smooth rap make it a perfect number for summer drives or moments of quiet reflection.

A Long, Short FestivalShiina Ringo

Ringo Sheena – Long and Short Festival

It’s a cool dance tune suffused with the sultry heat of a summer night and a fleeting, ephemeral vibe.

The track is a duet featuring Ukigumo, the guitarist from the band Tokyo Jihen, on vocals.

The rhythm incorporates elements of Brazilian music, and the interplay of the two Auto-Tuned voices is irresistibly captivating.

The lyrics portray a man and woman’s cat-and-mouse game set during a festival night, along with a sense of urgency toward a season that slips away in an instant—evoking Shiina Ringo’s distinctly mature worldview to the fullest.

Released in August 2015 as part of a double A-side single, it was used in Coca-Cola’s summer campaign commercial, making it a familiar tune in many households.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to on a slightly muggy summer night, soaking in a sentimental mood.

More Berry SummerCUTIE STREET

More Berry Summer

CUTIE STREET is an idol group making waves in the pop culture scene under the banner of “KAWAII.” Released in August 2025, this track is a summer anthem built around the unique concept that “a summer festival begins when you leave home and ends when you return.” It vividly portrays the story of a special day—from the pre-departure excitement, to the heat and thrill of the venue, to the bittersweet afterglow on the way home.

Its effervescent sound and relentlessly positive lyrics will boost your mood not just for summer, but for heading to any event.

Be sure to check out this energetic pop tune!

Summer DogTele

Tele | Summer Dog – Music Video

Tele is the solo project of Kitaro Taniguchi, who has drawn attention for his literary world-building.

Released in August 2025, this track blends a refreshing, airy feel that blows away the sweltering summer heat.

The lyrics declare that love is a free force unbound by rules, and listening feels like your heart is being set free.

With its danceable beat, you’ll find your body moving before you know it.

flying fishWANIMA

WANIMA “Flying Fish” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

WANIMA is a rock band from Kumamoto known for energetic live shows and lyrics that hit home.

Released in August 2025, this track pairs the fever of a summer fling with an oriental-tinged sound.

The song vividly portrays the protagonist’s feelings as they devote everything to a fleeting romance—like a flying fish that bursts through the water’s surface even while knowing it can’t stay airborne for long.

Its mature vibe is irresistibly immersive.

Perfect for boosting your summer mood!

Fanfaresumika

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

A refreshing song that carries a powerful message about breaking through the darkness of night to welcome a new morning.

It’s striking how the protagonist, once shut inside their shell, musters the courage to take a step into the outside world.

Many listeners will likely feel encouraged by the resolve to overcome hardship and trials and meet a new self.

Released in August 2018, the track was used as the opening theme for the anime film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” It’s also included on the album “AMUSIC” and is known as one of sumika’s signature works.

A perfect song to listen to before heading out for warm-weather activities, and recommended for those moments when you need courage to try something new.

Solar RouteMaeda Jun, Yanaginagi

Solar Route

This is a collaborative work by Jun Maeda, who weaves moving stories, and Nagi Yanagi, whose voice is clear as the sky.

It was produced as an insert song to grace the 3.5-year anniversary event of the dramatic RPG “Heaven Burns Red.” The song carries deep affection and a straightforward wish to live alongside someone precious, sung over a soundscape as boundless as a blue sky.

When you want to overcome hardships, this music will lend you strength.