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

fireworksaiko

Fireworks – aiko (Full)

This is the third major-label single by singer-songwriter aiko, who has gained popularity for lyrics written from a distinctly female perspective and melodies that are pop yet tinged with melancholy.

With multiple tie-ins—including commercials, variety shows, and TV anime—it became a long-running hit that brought aiko’s name to a wide audience.

The lyrics, which link an irrepressible crush with summer scenes, may remind many listeners of emotions they felt during their youth.

With its breezy melody and straightforward message, it’s a perfect fit for summer and a quintessential Heisei-era summer song.

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Hoshino Takashi

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fireworks (launched into the sky)DAOKO × Yonezu Kenshi

DAOKO × Kenshi Yonezu 'Uchiage Hanabi' MUSIC VIDEO

It’s a wistful summer love song with an enchanting, dreamlike tone.

A collaboration between DAOKO, who is also active as a rapper, and singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu, it was released in 2017 and chosen as the theme song for the animated film “Fireworks.” The lyrics evoke memories of watching fireworks burst in the sky with someone special—just reading them makes your chest tighten.

Give it a listen on a summer night when you’re feeling a little lonely.

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Araki Jakkan

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MiracleGReeeeN

GReeeeN – Kiseki

A four-member male vocal group, GReeeeN—who continue to be highly active as a leading example of artists who have gained a wide range of listeners while keeping their appearances private—released this as their seventh single.

Used as the theme song for the TV drama ROOKIES, the track became a huge hit and made headlines for achieving the fastest-ever “chaku-uta full” million downloads.

Although the lyrics don’t explicitly include words that evoke summer, many listeners may still feel the straightforward passion of youth from the drama and the music video imagery.

With its direct message resonating with and supported by younger generations, it stands as a modern J-pop classic.

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Hoshino Takashi

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astronomical observationBUMP OF CHICKEN

BUMP OF CHICKEN “Stargazing”

Despite its broad expressiveness and fully realized rock sound, BUMP OF CHICKEN continues to evolve; this is the four-piece rock band’s third single.

Inspired by the song, it was used as an insert track for the TV drama “Celestial Observation,” and it’s the number that brought BUMP OF CHICKEN widespread recognition.

The intro, played by eight guitars to evoke shooting stars, may fill you with nostalgia as it brings back memories of the night skies you gazed up at in your youth.

It’s a fast-paced rock tune that captures the anticipation and exhilaration of summer nights.

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Hoshino Takashi

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The Story You Don’t Knowsupercell

Bakemonogatari ED – The Story You Don’t Know

This is the debut single by supercell, a doujin music circle composed of creators such as illustrators and designers, centered around composer ryo.

The song was used as the ending theme for the TV anime Bakemonogatari and gained attention for featuring singer-songwriter Nagi Yanagi as a guest vocalist.

With lyrics that depict a faint budding romance and a fast-paced arrangement, it has a refreshing feel that’s perfect for summer.

It’s a coming-of-age song that evokes the conflicts and bittersweetness unique to youth—something anyone can relate to.

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Hoshino Takashi

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water lily blossomShonan no Kaze

Shonan no Kaze “Suirenka” MUSIC VIDEO

A song by Shonan no Kaze that lets you feel the heat of summer with your whole body.

One listen and you’ll be shouting, “It’s summer!”—your heart will definitely leap! It starts off laid-back, but the chorus hits like a wave and takes the excitement to its peak.

And when that peak arrives, you know what to do, right? Swing those towels like crazy! Whether you know the song or not, you won’t be able to resist spinning your towel.

Released in June 2007, this hit reached No.

2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and earned a Gold Disc.

Perfect as BGM for summer outings.

Put it on, and wherever you are will turn into a heavenly spot!

My Past Life, Many Lifetimes AgoRADWIMPS

RADWIMPS – Zenzenzense (movie ver.) [Official Music Video]

As a youth anthem perfect for summer, this song continues to be loved by many.

Created by RADWIMPS, it’s also well known as the theme song for the blockbuster 2016 animated film “Your Name.” The lyrics, carried by a driving, exhilarating melody, convey the powerful feelings of two people drawn together by fate since long ago and the earnest determination to overcome any obstacle to find each other.

Just listening to it brings the film’s story back to life and is sure to stir your heart.

It will give you courage when you’re thinking of someone special or striving toward your dreams.