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

Somewhere in the summerWANIMA

WANIMA "Somewhere in the Summer" OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

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

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

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.

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.