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 pair well with summer—like the sea and sky (31–40)
SUMMER SONGYUI
Singer-songwriter YUI made her major debut in 2005 with the single “feel my soul.” Her 2008 release “SUMMER SONG” is a perfect summer track where the light, acoustic guitar sound blends exquisitely with her gentle voice.
At the time, it was promoted with the catchphrase “YUI’s summer song,” and it may have been quite a challenging piece for her.
Precisely because of that, it was created with a strong awareness of summer; in melody, accompaniment, and lyrics alike, it’s refreshingly bright—truly the ultimate summer song!
SUMMER TIME LOVEEXILE
EXILE made their debut in 2001 with the single “Your eyes only ~Aimai na boku no rinka ku~.” Released in 2007, “SUMMER TIME LOVE” is a dance-pop track highlighted by EXILE TAKAHIRO’s cool vocals—he had just joined the group in 2006.
Its irresistibly sing-along, catchy melody pairs perfectly with the crystal-clear synthesizer arrangements characteristic of early EXILE, making it a great fit for summer drives and more!
A wish in summerPenthouse
Penthouse is a six-member coed city-soul band formed in a University of Tokyo music club, active under the concept of exploring music that adds a touch of style to everyday life.
Their digital single Natsu ni Negai wo, released for streaming on July 12, 2023, draws you into its world from the opening, featuring a refreshing string sound.
The lyrics portray the feeling of being unable to express your emotions as time slips by, and combined with summer’s sentimental atmosphere, they’re sure to tug at your heart.
With its driving beat and stylish arrangement, this pop tune is a comfortable listen that turns up the heat for the season.
sea glassSaucy Dog
Saucy Dog, a three-piece rock band affectionately known as “Saushii,” has been gaining increasing attention in recent years, performing their songs Itsuka and Yui on THE FIRST TAKE, a YouTube channel built around one-take recordings.
Their track Seaglass is a summer song that fully showcases vocalist-guitarist Shinya Ishihara’s sweet voice.
It’s pop, yet brimming with a deeply emotional atmosphere that evokes the Japanese aesthetics of wabi and sabi.
That uniquely Japanese essence—something you won’t find in Western music—really hits the spot.
cotton candyback number
Back number is a three-piece band that has produced many hit songs, including Hanataba released in 2011 and Takane no Hanako-san released in 2013.
Their 2012 release Watagashi is a supreme summer song that perfectly suits the setting of a summer festival.
With its minor-key chord progression, the track has a slightly kayōkyoku-like vibe that makes it especially interesting.
The more you listen, the richer it becomes—surely a hidden gem among their songs.
Summer-themed songs roundup: tracks that go perfectly with summer—like the sea and sky (41–50)
Feeling great!!mihimaru GT
mihimaru GT is a musical duo consisting of hiroko on vocals and rap, and miyake handling backup vocals, lyrics, and composition.
Their 2006 release “Kibun Jōjō ↑↑” is a dance-pop track that perfectly suits summer and makes you want to start dancing.
Unusually for J-pop, it features frequent record-scratch sounds, and many people may remember how fresh it sounded at the time.
Even now, the song’s appeal hasn’t faded at all—just hearing the intro naturally lifts your spirits!
BoyhoodMONGOL800
A classic by Yosui Inoue is covered by a rock band from Okinawa.
With an energetic arrangement, the track blends nostalgia and freshness into one.
The lyrics, themed around the end of summer and childhood memories, hit straight to the heart.
Released in July 2024, the song is drawing attention alongside the announcement of MONGOL800’s Nansei Islands tour titled “MONGOL800 tropical tour 2024.” It’s perfect for when you want to look back on summer memories or sink into a nostalgic mood.
Highly recommended as driving BGM, too.