RAG MusicNostalgic Youth songs
A wonderful youth song

Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks.

When you think of summer, you think of youth! That’s the image most of us have, right?

During summer break, we go out to all sorts of places or throw ourselves into club activities… Not only current students, but adults too probably have all kinds of memories, don’t you?

In this article, we’ll introduce plenty of songs that are perfect for a summer that feels full of seishun—that youthful spirit!

We’ve gathered tracks packed with different shades of youth—friendship, romance, dreams—so you’re sure to find something that really hits home.

Alright, let’s dive in and start listening!

Coming-of-age songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks (71–80)

piercingWOLF HOWL HARMONY

WOLF HOWL HARMONY / “Pierce” Music Video
piercingWOLF HOWL HARMONY

A single packed with the brilliance of youth that colors summer nights.

Released by WOLF HOWL HARMONY in July 2024, this work holds a powerful pull that grips young hearts.

The lyrics, which depict the stillness before dawn and nameless emotions, leave a strong impression.

The bold vocals and melodic lines resonate deeply, stirring a burning feeling in the listener’s chest.

Perfect for those who want to look back on the joys and struggles of their youth.

It’s also great to play on a summer night while talking with friends.

It’s sure to be a song that seeps into your heart.

Hi-FiveME:I

ME:I (Mei) ⊹ “Hi-Five” Official MV
Hi-FiveME:I

This song is the perfect way to amp up summer vacation with friends.

It’s the title track of ME:I’s single “Hi-Five,” released in August 2024, and its theme is the sparkle and exhilaration of spending summer with your crew.

Packed with the refreshing vibe of lemonade sipped under the sun and the joy that makes every day shine just by being together, it’s a track full of feel-good energy.

The song has gained popularity for its upbeat sound, debuting at No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.

Put it on as your summer vacation BGM, and it’s sure to elevate the fun.

Marigoldaimyon

This song captivates with a refreshing yet wistful feel that pairs perfectly with summer memories.

Released by Aimyon in August 2018, it became the first track by a Japanese artist to surpass 100 million streams the following year, making it a favorite across generations.

Its melody, which conjures vivid summer scenes, may stir a gentle sense of nostalgia.

Depicting summertime moments spent with someone special, it’s the kind of music that even elementary school children can enjoy and feel at ease with.

It’s perfect for summer outings or dusk—be sure to give it a listen!

FlowerKinKi Kids

KinKi Kids “Flower” Music Video
FlowerKinKi Kids

This million-selling song by KinKi Kids was used as the theme for ANA’s Okinawa campaign commercial.

Its straightforward message is compelling: life isn’t only about hardship; if we join forces, beautiful flowers are sure to bloom.

Released in May 1999, the shamisen heard during the interlude evokes the open, breezy atmosphere of Okinawa, the campaign’s setting.

It’s a warm, encouraging track that gently supports those who are taking on a challenge but feeling a bit worn out, giving them a nudge to try again.

It’s also perfect for a drive with friends!

Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

WANIMA "Somewhere in the Summer" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

A rousing summer tune from the three-piece rock band WANIMA that stirs the listener’s soul with the call to “Be yourself and give it your all!” It feels packed with a powerful message to hurl your doubts and sorrows into the summer blue sky and unfold a map that’s yours alone.

The track was included on their July 2019 single “Summer Trap!!” and was also featured as the theme song for the Mitsuya Cider commercial starring Suzu Hirose.

It’s the perfect cheer song to shine on your heart like the sun as you take on summer tournaments, entrance exams, and any challenge with everything you’ve got.

Xia XiaoWANIMA

WANIMA “Summer Dawn” OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Xia XiaoWANIMA

This song by the three-piece rock band WANIMA was chosen as the theme for the anime “GAMERA -Rebirth-,” which was distributed worldwide on Netflix.

In a harsh reality where there are more bad things than good and no time even to look back, the lyrics powerfully sing of a single ray of light finally found amid despair, striking a chord with the listener.

The track is included on the acclaimed album “Catch Up,” released in October 2023.

With energetic sound, it’s a work that cheers on those who face hardship yet still try to take a step toward the future.

At the mercy of the seaYOASOBI

YOASOBI “At the Mercy of the Sea” Official Music Video
At the mercy of the seaYOASOBI

This is a YOASOBI song created based on a short story by Naoki Prize-winning author Mizuki Tsujimura.

It depicts a fantastical night experienced by a runaway girl at the seaside, expressed through a gentle mid-tempo sound.

The encounter that gently embraces her anxious heart and the sense of emotional release it brings are captivatingly conveyed by Ikura’s clear, translucent vocals.

Released in November 2022, this work is sure to draw you into its tender world when you listen to it at night—different from the lively days of summer—when you’re in the mood for a touch of melancholy.