Emotional songs you’ll want to listen to in summer: classic tracks by rock bands and singer-songwriters.

Writing down the summerrokudenashi

Writing down the summer

A song carefully woven like writing a diary entry about an ordinary summer day.

Scenes come to life—the flowers blooming by the roadside, the fireworks rising over the neighboring town’s sky—stirring both tenderness for the shining season and a looming sense of its eventual end.

The appeal also lies in vocalist Ninjin’s steady, resonant voice and the nostalgic rock sound.

Featured on the EP “Hikage,” released in July 2025, this track is a work that will stay by your side throughout your summer.

I remember youYUI

I remember you

As summer draws to a close, it’s only natural to want to listen to one of YUI’s classic songs.

Released in September 2006, this piece is deeply connected to the film “Midnight Sun” (Taiyo no Uta), in which YUI herself starred.

It was produced during the film’s preview tour and is said to have been written with the image of a character reminiscing about a beloved person.

The unforgettable feelings for someone precious who can no longer be seen are sung with a heartrending melody that truly tightens the chest.

The song is also included on the album “CAN’T BUY MY LOVE,” among others.

How about it for a long autumn night spent basking in memories of summers past, or as a companion for a slightly sentimental drive?

Every time summer comesatarayo

Atarayo – “Every Time Summer Comes” (Music Video)

Atarayo, a three-piece band that captivates fans with its lyrical worldview under the tagline “a band that feeds on sorrow.” The track Natsu ga Kuru Tabi from their concept album Kioku no Hako features a brisk, translucent ensemble that feels wonderfully refreshing.

Its lyrics, which depict bittersweet memories that resurface with the arrival of summer, are likely to resonate with many listeners who see their own experiences reflected in them.

It’s a refreshing yet sentimental number that showcases the expressive range of their male–female twin vocals.

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Hoshino Takashi

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planetariumOtsuka Ai

Planetarium – Ai Otsuka (Full)

Ai Otsuka is known for her energetic, cheerful songs like “Sakuranbo” and “SMILY.” But you can enjoy a different side of her with “Planetarium.” The lyrics, which hint at the bittersweet inability to say “I love you” outright—lines like “When I look up at the summer night sky, I remember you; even now the summer sky is the same planetarium as back then”—still feel fresh today.

It was released in 2005, so those born in the Heisei era might not be as familiar with it, but it’s a wonderful summer ballad I’d love you to hear at least once.

Give it a listen and you’ll surely want to recommend it to someone!

Live the summerRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Living the Summer” Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai, a four-piece rock band that made waves with their 2022 smash hit “Michi wo Yuke,” has released a moving track called “Natsu o Ikiru,” which, true to its title, celebrates the joy of living summer to the fullest.

The vocals by Haruko Nagaya are especially captivating; despite the melody being quite challenging, her overwhelming vocal prowess makes it sound effortless.

The music video, featuring distinctive hand-drawn style illustrations, is also really fun—why not give it a watch?

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Yuuki

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Our DiaryME:I

ME:I (Mi Eye) ⊹ ‘Our Diary’ Track Video

A heartwarming pop song that gently wraps summer memories.

It’s a track by ME:I, included on the single “Hi-Five,” released in August 2024.

Set to a refreshing melody, it poetically depicts summer scenes like pool days and stargazing at camp.

Perfect for when you want to look back on memories with someone special—it’s sure to leave you feeling cozy.

Just about 21 hours after its release, it surpassed 2.6 million streams, capturing the hearts of many listeners.

It might also be a great listen as the season begins to feel like summer’s end.

ciderThe Birthday

The Birthday – Cider

This work stands out for its lyrics that capture everyday urban life from a unique perspective.

It’s included on the EP “April,” released in April 2024, and carries special meaning as Chiba’s posthumous work.

The Birthday’s signature guitar-rock sound and Yusuke Chiba’s emotional vocals are utterly captivating.

With a worldview that seems to move between reality and unreality, it stimulates the listener’s imagination.

Give it a listen when you want to connect with the small happenings and quiet emotions tucked away in the corners of the city.