Hot! Summer hit songs that boost the summer vibe

fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi

DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu 'Uchiage Hanabi' MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a song by DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu that spreads in your mind like fireworks that burst across the night sky and quietly fade away.

DAOKO’s clear, delicate vocals blend with Yonezu’s deeply emotive voice over a beautiful melody.

The lyrics convey the protagonist vividly recalling summer days spent with someone special, wishing to watch those fireworks together once more, while holding both the ache that it may never come true and the lingering warmth of unfading memories.

Released as a single in August 2017, the song drew major attention as the theme for the animated film “Fireworks (Should We See It from the Side or the Bottom?).” It reached No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 in September of the same year, and is also included on DAOKO’s album “THANK YOU BLUE.” It’s perfect for slightly lonely late-summer nights or as a soundtrack for a drive when you want to bask in memories.

Marigoldaimyon

Aimyon – Marigold [OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO]

This is a song whose bittersweet yet warm melody resonates in the heart, like a summer twilight.

Aimyon sings about everyday moments with a loved one and the enduring sparkle of unfading memories.

The lyrics carry the joy and anxiety of love, along with a pure wish to stay connected.

Released in August 2018 as Aimyon’s fifth single, the song became known in 2019 for being the first by a domestic artist to surpass 100 million streams in Japan.

As a nationally beloved track, it’s sure to liven up summer drives and karaoke sessions!

LIFEkimaguren

Kimaguren – LIFE

Here’s a track that pairs perfectly with the summer sun—just listening to it makes your heart dance.

Performed by Kimaguren, this piece brims with upbeat energy, blending the light tones of acoustic guitar with straightforward lyrics that cheer you on to “live true to yourself!” Released in May 2008, the single became their first to break into the top 20 on the Oricon charts.

It was even used as a TV theme song, in commercials, and as a train station approach melody.

It’s ideal as background music for summer drives, barbecues, or days by the sea—and when you’re tackling a new challenge or feeling a bit down, it just might give you the courage you need.

Nagisasupittsu

Spitz / Nagisa

A work by Spitz that captivates with an exhilarating sound that conjures up sparkling summer scenes.

Set to a beautiful melody, it delicately portrays the protagonist’s emotions as they waver between the sweet, heartrending memories of a past love and the reality of the present.

Released as a single in September 1996, the song is also included on the album Indigo Chiheisen.

It became well known as the CM song for Ezaki Glico’s “Pocky Love Story.” It’s a track that seems to gently stay by your side—not only when you feel the wind on a summer drive, but also when you’re walking alone by the seaside or spending a sentimental night.

Mahoro in SummerHarukamirai

Harukamirai – Summer Mahoro (Official Music Video)

This is a heart-thumping track by Harukamirai that vividly captures the blazing summer sun and the days of youth gone by.

The song leaves a strong impression with its protagonist looking back, amid the encroaching heat, on the self who once acted tough and the past when they couldn’t be a little more honest.

Alongside motifs like sunflowers and white baseballs, the nostalgia for those burning days and the resolve to step into the future ride on an energetic rock sound that’s sure to move listeners.

The track is included on the album “THE BAND STAR,” released in July 2020, and was also selected as a J-pop recommendation on MUSIC ON! TV that same month.

It’s perfect for summer drives or outings with friends, and if you want to rekindle that fiery feeling from back then, be sure to give it a listen!

August 888 — This is way too much summerrisaitaruzu

Recitals – “Month 888 ~It’s Way Too Much Like Summer~” [Official Music Video]

This is a song that instantly amps up the summer vibe.

Created by Recitals, a unit that sprang from the popular YouTuber group Tokai On Air, this track is packed with a catchy melody that makes your heart dance and playful word choices that are pure fun.

It’s like painting a picture of an endless summer—you can almost see the glittering scenes unfold before your eyes.

Released in August 2022, the song was also chosen as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Zenryoku! Datsuryoku Times” from August to September 2022.

Whether you’re on a summer drive, hanging out at the beach, or firing up a barbecue, this track will take your excitement to the next level.

Add it to your playlist and soak up the summer!

Ocean living roomSuzuki Suzuki

Sea Living – Suzuki Suzuki [Official Music Video]

Suzuki Suzuki captivates with the uniquely beautiful harmonies only brothers can create.

Their signature summer tune radiates a breezy freshness that makes your heart bounce just by listening.

It conjures a world that feels like music painting a shimmering seaside or an irreplaceable moment of youth.

With relaxed melodies tinged with chill-pop and R&B, the song seems to carry their warm desire to cherish life’s small joys, resonating strongly with many teens.

Released in August 2021 as their fourth original track, it sparked a big response, with over 100,000 related videos on TikTok.

The song is also included on the album “313.” It’s perfect for summer drives or time with friends by the ocean, and ideal when you want to soak in a refreshing mood.

A track for anyone who wants to feel the sparkle of youth.