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 hits and recommended popular tracks (21–30)

Summer LoveInoue Sonoko

A youthful love song that calls to mind the dazzling summer sun and a perfectly clear blue sky.

It’s packed with all the feelings of a girl with a crush—heartache, longing, and joy.

The music video is full of sparkling, youthful summer elements too, like school during vacation and the pool.

Sonoko Inoue’s cute, high-tone vocals also heighten the vibe of summer love and youthful excitement!

SUMMER SONGYUI

YUI 『Summer Song-short ver.-』
SUMMER SONGYUI

YUI’s “Summer Song” is a youthful anthem you want to listen to in the summer.

It was released in 2008, but it’s still popular and is known as a staple at karaoke and elsewhere.

The fresh sound of the acoustic guitar perfectly captures that coming-of-age vibe, and doesn’t it make you feel emotional just listening to it? The slightly nostalgic feel makes it all the more summery.

Because I met youmiwa

miwa “Because I Met You -short ver.-”
Because I met youmiwa

This is the 14th single by singer-songwriter miwa, who has been active mainly at live music venues since her high school days and has garnered support for her cute vocals and refreshing songs.

Chosen as the commercial song for Shiseido’s Sea Breeze, it was created with the theme of a cheer song for students devoted to their club activities—truly a number that captures youth.

The intro that seems to give you a push and the straightforward message color the youthful days spent pouring yourself into something uniquely student-like, often set against the backdrop of summer club activities.

It’s a refreshing yet powerful track that gives you the courage to face, with all your might, the things you can only do now.

Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi

Kenshi Yonezu – Spirits of the Sea
Ghost of the SeaYonezu Kenshi

Speaking of summer, here’s Kenshi Yonezu’s “Spirits of the Sea,” which is related to the ocean.

This song doesn’t have the bright, refreshing feel of a typical youth anthem.

If anything, it’s bittersweet and nostalgic, giving the impression of a coming-of-age song for adults.

As the title suggests, it also features slightly horror-like sound elements, which is distinctive.

I won’t forget it.kessoku bando

[Lyric Video] Kessoku Band “I Won’t Let Myself Forget” / In-episode song from TV anime “Bocchi the Rock!” Episode 12
I won't forget it.kessoku bando

Kessoku Band is the rock band that appears in the TV anime Bocchi the Rock! The song “Wasurete Yaranai,” included on their first album Kessoku Band, was also used as an in-episode track in episode 12.

Its fast-paced rock ensemble, featuring tight guitar sounds, pairs with refreshing lyrics to amp up the summer vibe.

With an emotional message that feels like looking back on one’s youth, it’s a rock tune that resonates with the heat of the summer season.

Song of the Blue BookmarkFantasticYouth × Uorupisu Kātā

FantasticYouth × Wolpis Carter - "Blue Bookmark Song"
Song of the Blue BookmarkFantasticYouth × Uorupisu Kātā

FantasticYouth is a music unit that met through social media and is active mainly on Nico Nico Douga and YouTube.

Their sixth digital-only single, “Aono Shiorika,” drew attention as a collaboration with Walpis Carter, who is active as a singer and YouTuber.

The overlapping, piercing high-tone vocals and driving melody evoke the image of a refreshing summer sky.

It’s an upbeat track with a touch of nostalgia that brings to mind youthful romance.

Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Summer Time Cinderella' Official Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai – Summer Time Cinderella
Summertime CinderellaRyokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai is a four-member co-ed rock band that’s expanding its fanbase with powerful high-tone vocals and songs brimming with fresh pop sensibility.

Their 7th single, “Summertime Cinderella,” was written as the theme song for the TV drama “Midsummer Cinderella.” The arrangement moves from a sentimental intro featuring piano and strings into a light, breezy A-melody, making you feel refreshed just by listening.

True to its title, the summer-evoking lyrics convey the arrival of the hot season, delivering a refreshing, upbeat tune.