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!

Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer tracks and recommended popular songs (151–160)

A Midsummer Night’s DreamMatsutōya Yumi

A Midsummer Night's Dream / Yumi Matsutoya (Cover)
A Midsummer Night's DreamMatsutōya Yumi

Since her debut, singer-songwriter Yumi Matsutoya—affectionately known as “Yuming”—has released numerous hit songs, including those she wrote for other artists.

Her 24th single, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” used as the theme song for the TV drama “Darenimo Ienai” (Can’t Tell Anyone), became her first million-selling single and a massive hit.

Its passionate lyrics and Latin-tinged ensemble beautifully color the summer night, just as the title suggests.

It’s a sexy pop tune marked by a striking portrayal of a hot yet bittersweet romance.

Party night in summer dreamAge Factory

Age Factory “Party night in summer dream” (Official Music Video)
Party night in summer dreamAge Factory

Age Factory is a three-piece rock band renowned for their high-level, tricky performances—some even call them a “monster band.” Their single “Party night in summer dream,” released on May 17, 2023, takes a dance-punk approach that evokes the energy of a live show.

The lyrics, which depict memories of a night like a mirage, convey the fleeting beginning of summer.

With a driving beat and sharp-edged rock sound that ramps up the excitement, it’s an upper tune that heightens anticipation for the hot season.

Summer IllusionOmoinotake

Omoinotake / Summer Illusion [Official Music Video]
Summer IllusionOmoinotake

Omoinotake is a three-piece band that captivates fans with songs influenced by Black music such as soul, R&B, and hip-hop.

Their sixth digital-only single, “Natsu no Maboroshi” (Summer Illusion), was chosen as the theme song for the film Cherry Magic! THE MOVIE: The Magic Continues.

The contrast between the delicate, lingering piano-driven ensemble and the emotional vocals evokes the bittersweet atmosphere of summer.

It’s a sentimental summer song that gently colors the passing season.

Sorry, SUMMERSKE48

SKE48 “Sorry, SUMMER”
Sorry, SUMMERSKE48

It might remind you of the romances of your youth.

This song by the idol group SKE48 was released in 2010 as their third single.

Its upbeat four-on-the-floor rhythm pairs perfectly with the members’ bright, blossoming vocals, making it feel incredibly refreshing.

Both the sound and the lyrics make you want to go see a vast, endless blue ocean.

Let this work bring back those almost-forgotten days!

Summer Speed feat. OkiishiNatsunose

[Official Music Video] Summer Acceleration (Kasoku) feat. Okiishi
Summer Speed feat. OkiishiNatsunose

Starting in 2021 as a Vocaloid producer, Natsunose is a composer known for evocative, nostalgic imagery.

Their 2022 release “Natsusoku” ranked 17th on Spotify’s Viral Chart and became a hot topic, especially on TikTok.

With a striking piano tone and a driving sound that is said to capture the speed of summer, the track gained momentum.

Tokiwa, a mysterious TikToker who’s been generating buzz, used “Natsusoku” in their own posts, repeatedly creating trending content.

Music HourPorunogurafiti

Porno Graffitti “Music Hour” Music Video
Music HourPorunogurafiti

This is the third single by Porno Graffitti, who debuted with “Apollo” in 1999—a song that seems to capture a sense of rising excitement for summer.

Overall, it feels like it’s modeled after a radio program, and combined with the breezy sound, it conjures up an image of music playing from a car stereo cruising along the coastline.

The lyrics, which depict a radio host responding to messages from listeners, are memorable and give the impression of encouraging people to enjoy the summer.

It’s a track that conveys a refreshing yet powerful energy—highlighting the thrill of the season’s arrival as temperatures climb, and the determination to fully savor a youth that can only be found in summer.

Youthful songs to listen to in summer. Classic summer hits and recommended popular tracks (161–170)

Summer is comingDaikoku Maki

Maki Ohguro, known for her powerful, passion-stirring vocals, shines especially in this track, where a gently smoldering passion is felt more strongly than in many of her other songs.

The relaxed tempo that accentuates a Latin vibe, along with the striking presence of percussion and brass, creates a memorable sound and conveys a sexy atmosphere.

Even with the laid-back rhythm, Ohguro’s vocals remain as strong as ever, evoking a sense of passion kept deep within the heart.

The lyrics depict a situation where love is overflowing all around yet never reaches the singer herself, expressing frustration with that reality—while still portraying the kind of emotion that burns with determination to stride powerfully toward summer.