A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.

Fish’s LoveSuper VHS

Fish's Love

It’s a number whose lyrics resonate with the heart, conjuring bittersweet scenes of summer.

This track by the electro-pop/new wave band Super VHS, featuring Mei Ehara, rides an urban sound to sing of a fleeting love.

Released as a 7-inch single in April 2019, it had previously been included on the September 2016 compilation album “Young Folks in Metropolis.” The cool vocals seem to accentuate the protagonist’s hidden passion and sadness.

Give it a listen on a night when you’re in the mood for a touch of sentimentality.

Summer BikeFANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE

【Music Video】Summer Bike / FANTASTICS

This work delivered by FANTASTICS from EXILE TRIBE is irresistible, with a refreshing melody that makes your heart dance just by listening.

The lyrics surely capture the thrill of summer adventures and the youthful rush shared with friends, drawing listeners into a sparkling world.

The choreography by s**t kingz’s NOPPO also seems to showcase a new side of the group.

Released in August 2022 as their 11th single, the song peaked at No.

4 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart and is included on the album “FANTASTIC ROCKET.” It’s also well known as the theme song for their live tour, and the music video filmed in Okinawa amps up the summer vibes.

Perfect for a drive or time spent with friends!

Emo-ish summerLucky Kilimanjaro

Lucky Kilimanjaro – Emo-ish Summer [Official Music Video]

This is a dance track by Lucky Kilimanjaro, marked by synths and claps that make your heart race from the intro.

Listening to it vividly brings to mind the thrill of the moment love begins—when the world starts to sparkle—along with a hint of bewilderment, all set against summer scenery.

You can feel the protagonist’s burning desire to be so captivated by the other person that nothing else matters, wanting to ignite the feelings of “this very moment” rather than think about the future.

Released as a single in July 2020, the song was featured on Nippon TV’s “Sukkiri” and served as the ending theme for Fuji TV’s “Netapare.” With a refreshing vibe that captures the excitement of early summer, it’s the perfect track to boost your mood or accompany a drive.

TSUNAMISazan Ōrusutāzu

Tsunami – Southern All Stars

Like waves that surge and recede, this is one of Southern All Stars’ signature songs, painting an overwhelming swell of emotion you can’t control.

The lyrics, which layer the deep sorrow of heartbreak and a sense of helplessness over the irresistible force of nature, have touched countless hearts.

Beginning quietly with a piano melody and then enveloping you in grand strings as the feelings rise, the song was released in January 2000.

Embraced as the theme for the TV show segment “Mirai Nikki III” on “UNNAN no Hontoko!”, it became a work remembered both in records and in memories, winning the Grand Prize at the 42nd Japan Record Awards that same year.

On nights when you’re weighed down by unbearable sadness, listen to this song—surely it will stay close to your heart.

The Old Man and the SeaYorushika

The Old Man and the Sea

Beginning with gentle guitar strains, this song draws inspiration from Ernest Hemingway’s renowned novel and evokes a comforting feeling, as if you were on a quiet seaside.

Suis’s crystalline vocals seem to weave a story that transcends reality and journeys deep into the heart.

It may be centered on the inner strength of humans who refuse to lose hope even in the face of hardship.

Released in August 2021, the piece became widely known as the TV commercial song for Vanish Standard Inc.’s service “STAFF START.” It resonated with many, aligning with the commercial’s message, “A world where you don’t have to give up on what you love.” It’s perfect for moments when you want to spend time leisurely by the sea or quietly sink into contemplation—ideal listening when you’re in the mood to relax.

This is also a recommended track for those who enjoy music with literary depth.

Tears of Tropical FishFlower

Flower “Tropical Fish’s Tears” — 2nd album “Hanadokei (Flower Clock)” out March 4

A Flower song marked by a dreamlike sound that feels as if you’re underwater.

Its poetic lyrics liken the ache of unrequited love to a fish drifting in an aquarium, reflecting the protagonist’s heartache and resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in June 2014 as their seventh single, the track was later included on the album Hanadokei.

On summer evenings, when a sudden loneliness arrives or on nights when you want to sink into a sentimental mood, this song will quietly stay by your side.

Its bittersweet yet somehow warm melody will gently wrap your heart.

sodasumika

sumika / Soda [Music Video]

A song by sumika that blends the fizzy, sparkling refreshment of a carbonated drink with a chest-tightening wistfulness.

It’s said that vocalist Kenta Kataoka wrote this passionate piece in almost a single night, channeling regret over a relationship left unresolved by a “misguided sense of kindness.” If you’ve ever struggled to express your feelings, you’ll feel that frustration all too keenly.

The track was included on the mini-album “I co Y,” released by an indie label in November 2014.

It’s a love song that gently stays by your side—whether you’re basking in a joyful summer romance or weathering a slightly bittersweet one.