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

sodasumika

sumika / Soda [Music Video]

This is a song by sumika that tightens the chest with a bittersweet regret, like the end of summer.

Born from songwriter and composer Kenta Kataoka’s real-life experience, the piece overlays the frustration of a relationship that ended without saying what needed to be said onto the image of fizzing soda that pops and disappears.

The memories of ordinary days in which emotions were never even thrown at each other serve as a compelling touch that further highlights the song’s poignancy.

Included on the mini-album “I co Y,” released in November 2014.

It’s a track you’ll want to listen to when you find yourself feeling a sudden loneliness while reminiscing about fun summer memories.

I don’t need youth.Sangatsu no Phantasia

Sangatsu no Phantasia: “I Don’t Need Youth”

This is a song by Sangatsu no Phantasia that portrays the languor at summer’s end and the inexpressible anxiety unique to youth.

The lyrics, which strikingly capture the complex feeling of wanting to be an adult yet not quite being able to, really stand out.

Many listeners will relate to the urge to shout for no reason or to break free from who they are now.

The track is included on the March 2019 album “Girls Blue Happy Sad.” While it puts on a brave face by saying “I don’t need youth,” it’s a wistful and beautiful song that makes you feel a tender affection for yourself in the midst of it all.

Midsummer day!Nogizaka 46

Midsummer day!

This is a song by the idol group Nogizaka46.

It was released in 2025 as a track on their 39th single.

Chosen as the “Nogizaka46 Meiji Jingu Stadium Performance 10th Memorial Song,” it’s an up-tempo summer tune.

Its bouncy rhythm and liberating melody line feel great, making you want to take off running as soon as you hear it.

The lyrics express feelings for a loved one encountered by chance on a midsummer day, and that sweet-and-sour worldview is part of its charm.

It’s a bright piece that also spotlights the expressive performance of center member Haruka Kaki.

BUNBUN SUIBUNUchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai

Uchikubi Gokumon Doukoukai “BUNBUN SUIBUN”

A song perfect for summer from Uchikubigokumon-Doukoukai, known for singing about down-to-earth, everyday themes.

In the sweltering heat, it drives home the importance of staying hydrated with heavy-hitting sounds and addictive phrases.

The lyrics clearly convey the band’s warm yet powerful message: let’s all have fun and power through the summer together.

Released in June 2024 as the commercial song for Otsuka Pharmaceutical’s Pocari Sweat, this track is packed with humor and energy—ideal for cranking up at outdoor festivals or barbecues and singing along with friends.

Ocean ViewBAD HOP

BAD HOP / Ocean View feat. YZERR, Yellow Pato, Bark & T-Pablow (Official Video)

This work captivates with its dazzling sound, as if it captured the very best moments shared with friends.

Riding a tropical, exhilarating beat, it paints an extraordinary scene of escaping the everyday to enjoy a seaside party.

Each member’s distinctive rap vividly reflects the crew’s lifestyle and strong bonds.

Released in September 2017, the track is included on BAD HOP’s second nationwide release album, “Mobb Life.” Symbolic of the group’s meteoric rise, the album boasts a highly popular music video for this song, which has amassed over 38 million views on YouTube.

It’s the perfect track to elevate your mood for summer drives or beach gatherings.

If you’re looking to create an unforgettable summer with your friends, be sure to give it a listen!

Heat haze of Augustmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “August Heat Haze” MV

This is a song by the rock band Macaroni Enpitsu, formed at Senzoku Gakuen College of Music in Kanagawa Prefecture.

It begins with a cool, understated vibe that feels like a summer breeze, then builds powerfully toward the chorus as if pouring out emotion—an impressive sonic development.

As suggested by the title, the song evokes a desperate figure chasing something intangible and the emptiness that accompanies it.

It can also be heard as expressing the loneliness felt when the summer heat has passed.

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Midsummer SunŌhara Sakurako

Sakurako Ohara – Midsummer Sun (Music Video Short ver.)

It’s the third single, released in 2015.

Seiji Kameda handled the lyrics, composition, and arrangement, making it a lavish track.

Centered on a refreshing acoustic guitar sound, it’s structured with a full band arrangement.