A collection of summer-like songs: tracks that go perfectly with summer, like the sea and the sky.
As summer approaches, you start craving summery songs—like those themed around the ocean and sky! But when you actually try to think of summer tracks, the right ones might not come to mind right away.
So in this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of songs that feel like summer all at once.
We’ve gathered not only tracks with the word “summer” in their titles or lyrics, but also songs whose melodies or words evoke the season.
You’re sure to find songs that will elevate your summer! Listen through in order and find your favorites!
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A collection of summer-like songs. Tracks that go well with summer—like the sea and sky (111–120)
Superstarkururi
This is a song by Quruli, a rock band from Kyoto Prefecture, said to express the sadness that comes with the end of summer.
The straightforward, energetic band sound evokes the heat of summer, while the gentle tempo gives the impression of a breeze passing through.
The lyrics, which seem to depict a yearning for something out of reach, are striking as well, conveying the impatience and wistfulness of never being able to catch up no matter how hard you chase.
It’s a refreshing yet poignant track that also communicates the melancholy of a season slipping away.
Summer-themed playlist. Songs that go perfectly with summer—like the sea and the sky (121–130)
Sea of WonderlandŌishi Masayoshi
This track, crafted by Masayoshi Oishi, was produced as the 7th-anniversary theme song for the popular smartphone game Azur Lane.
From the intro, it features a sound that evokes a majestic, dreamlike ocean world, giving it a refreshing vibe that’s perfect for summer! The lyrics include phrases like “spray dancing in the blue sky,” painting a picture of an adventure across the vast sea.
Emphasizing challenge, a spirit of adventure, and hope for the future, it’s a relatable summer tune you won’t want to miss.
Released as a digital single in September 2024, it’s also included on the single Gambling Hall, which came out in November.
A perfect pick for making summer memories or for anyone seeking a new challenge.
cheat dayNogizaka 46
A pop track that kicks off with rap, featuring Nogizaka46’s signature refreshing sound and lyrics that evoke youthful imagery.
Centered on the theme of liberation from schoolwork and everyday life, it portrays the joy of savoring summer freedom.
Released as a single in August 2024, it was packaged together with the TV anime ATRI -My Dear Moments- opening theme, “Ano Hikari.” Although the team reportedly struggled with recording the rap parts during production, the final result brims with a live, energetic feel.
It’s a perfect song for making summer memories or when you need a change of pace.
Midsummer SunŌhara Sakurako
When it comes to songs that capture the sparkle of summer in music, this track by Sakurako Ohara stands out.
Its refreshing acoustic guitar and powerful band sound leave a strong impression.
Released in July 2015 as her third single, it was also featured as a commercial song for the popular game “White Cat Project.” The lyrics depict a summer romance beginning under the dazzling sun, conveying both the joy and the wistful side of spending summer with someone special.
In the music video, Ohara rides a bicycle along the seaside and enjoys a BBQ.
Listening to this song may bring back your own summer memories.
It’s a recommended track for anyone feeling nostalgic about their youth.
You are in full color.Ohtaki Eiichi
Released in 1981, this signature song by Eiichi Ohtaki is a classic that portrays the sorrow of heartbreak and a nostalgic longing for unfading memories of the past.
Its sophisticated sound has been praised as a “Japanese version of the Wall of Sound,” and the lyrics convey the profound sense of loss after losing someone dear.
Included on the album A LONG VACATION, the song has retained its popularity even more than 40 years after its release, and in March 2021, its music video was unveiled for the first time.
It’s a song that continues to stay close to the hearts of those who have experienced the end of a romance.
Natsumatope＝LOVE
=LOVE is an idol group produced by Rino Sashihara.
Their exhilarating summer song is “Natsumatope.” The title is a coined word that combines “natsu” (summer) with “onomatopoeia,” which expresses states and sensations through sound.
The song conveys the fun of spending summer with friends as sound.
It also features call-and-response parts, making it easy to get hyped when listening with friends—another key charm of the track.
Give it a listen when you’re heading out together.
LIFEkimaguren
Here’s a track that pairs perfectly with the summer sun—just listening to it makes your heart dance.
Performed by Kimaguren, this piece brims with upbeat energy, blending the light tones of acoustic guitar with straightforward lyrics that cheer you on to “live true to yourself!” Released in May 2008, the single became their first to break into the top 20 on the Oricon charts.
It was even used as a TV theme song, in commercials, and as a train station approach melody.
It’s ideal as background music for summer drives, barbecues, or days by the sea—and when you’re tackling a new challenge or feeling a bit down, it just might give you the courage you need.