Recommended surfer music: classic tracks you’ll want to listen to as your surfing companion.
Those who are well-versed in music will be familiar with the image of so-called “surf rock” as the Ventures’ guitar instrumentals or the Southern California sound led by the early Beach Boys.
In recent years, however, “surf music” tends to evoke songs by singer-songwriters deeply connected to ocean culture—like surfers—built around acoustic sounds, which makes the contrast pretty interesting, doesn’t it? In this article, we take a broad view of “surf music,” presenting a lineup focused on Western music that also looks at contemporary indie pop and surf punk influenced by surf rock.
We’ve compiled a collection of classic tracks that pair perfectly with dazzling sunshine and rolling waves!
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Recommended surfer music: classic tracks you’ll want to listen to while surfing (61–70)
Traffic JamSPiCYSOL
This song is a love track inspired by the traffic jams on National Route 134 in Shonan.
Featuring an upbeat rhythm and refreshing melody, it stands as a signature piece that embodies SPiCYSOL’s “Surf Beat Music” concept.
It was released digitally in advance in May 2019 and later included on the EP EASY-EP in August of the same year.
The song received power-play rotations on more than 17 radio stations nationwide and has been embraced by many listeners as the perfect soundtrack for summer drives.
Give it a listen for seaside drive dates or trips to Shonan with friends!
Surf TimeHirai Dai
A classic of Hawaiian surf music wrapped in the sound of waves and a soothing ukulele melody.
Featured on the 2011 debut album “OHANA,” this piece is one of Dai Hirai’s signature works, imbued with his deep love for surf culture.
Its lyrics, themed around a yearning for tropical islands and the freedom of the surfing life, leave a strong impression.
With vivid scenes that weave in Hawaiian place names, it instantly transports listeners to a sunny, southern beach.
It’s the perfect track for relaxing by the seaside or resetting your mind away from the noise of everyday life.
Mr. MotoThe Belairs
An instrumental number that symbolizes the dawn of surf music.
It opens with a flamenco-style intro, and the reverb-drenched guitar melody seems to sonically portray a surfer riding the waves.
Released in January 1962, this track brilliantly captures Southern California’s beach culture.
Its exotic atmosphere and vibrant energy embody the free spirit of the era and continue to influence many musicians.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone who wants to spend a laid-back time by the sea or who’s interested in surf culture.
Blue EyesTimmy Curran
Timmy Curran is a hugely popular modern professional surfer.
With his surfing style and good looks, he could be called the prince of the surfing world, and he also serves as a main rider for the popular surf brand Hurley.
It seems he also has musical talent, and his recognition and popularity as a musician are rapidly rising.
JeremyPearl Jam
They’re a world-famous rock band, and their vocalist, Eddie Vedder, is also well known as a surfer.
He’s so immersed in surfing that he even released a ukulele album, so this massive hit should also qualify as surfer music.
Hey AZ feat. SWVAZ
Some of the hip-hop that was popular in the U.S.
from the late ’80s to the early ’90s now seems to be treated like surf music.
It’s true—I picture hip-hop blasting at high volume on a summer beach.
The same goes for rap; it’s music you just can’t leave out.
Waiting On the World to ChangeJohn Mayer
John Mayer’s songs can also be recommended as surf music.
They have a lingering feel that makes you sense the approach of summer’s end.
He may not be explosively famous in Japan, but he’s an essential artist you should know.