RAG MusicSummer-Songs
Lovely summer song

Recommended summer songs for people in their 20s: classic and popular J-pop tracks

When summer comes around, don’t you often find yourself wanting summery background music as you head out for drives and enjoy the outdoors more? And when you go to karaoke, many of you probably want to hype things up with songs that capture the season and make you feel the summer vibe.

So in this article, we’ll introduce some popular summer tunes! This time, we’re focusing on songs recommended for people currently in their 20s, gathering a wide range centered on tracks you likely listened to back in your school days.

Use this article as a guide to pick songs you can enjoy when you get together with people from the same generation!

Summer songs recommended for people in their 20s: Japanese classics and popular tracks (71–80)

sunflowerAdo

A song brimming with hope for a bright future, like a sunflower stretching straight toward the sun.

It vividly portrays the feelings of a protagonist striving to live positively, and the bond with a cherished person who gently gives them a push forward.

Featuring Ado’s strikingly emotional vocals, this piece is recommended for those seeking the courage to gradually change their timid selves or to reflect on supportive relationships.

It’s a heartwarming track that quietly stays close to your heart, especially when listened to at the start of summer.

Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

Where Our Blue Is / Tatsuya Kitani
Blue HabitatKitanitatsuya

This song paints memories of youth that are as refreshing and bittersweet as a summer sky.

Tatsuya Kitani released it in July 2023.

It was chosen as the opening theme for Season 2 of the TV anime Jujutsu Kaisen and received a Special Award at the 65th Japan Record Awards.

The cool, refreshing melody and lyrics that weave together the pure relationships unique to adolescence, along with regret and a sense of loss, vividly awaken memories everyone has experienced.

It’s a perfect song to sing in an air-conditioned karaoke room on a hot summer day while reminiscing about the past.

Summer Love AdvisorySHISHAMO

SHISHAMO “Summer Love Advisory”
Summer Love AdvisorySHISHAMO

This song by SHISHAMO was also featured in JTB’s “Kokoro Odoru Natsutabi” (Heart-Dancing Summer Trip) campaign commercial.

When the CM first started airing, the title hadn’t been announced yet, and many people were probably curious about the name and the full picture of the song.

True to the band, it opens with a lively, energetic guitar riff that’s perfect for summer, giving it a fresh vibe.

The lyrics portray a love that can’t be stopped, even as the singer hesitates, wondering, “Is it okay to take this love seriously?” It’s a sweet-and-sour summer tune that’s sure to resonate.

Heat haze of Augustmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu “August Heat Haze” MV
Heat haze of Augustmakaroni enpitsu

Macaroni Enpitsu, a four-piece rock band affectionately known as Maka-en, released “Kagerou in August” in 2021—a track whose beautiful lyrics and distinctive rhythm are addictively memorable.

It’s mid-tempo rock, and the way the song gradually builds is irresistible.

In particular, Hattori’s skillful switch between shouts and his clear singing voice creates a moving atmosphere.

And right after the accent break, the beautiful guitar arpeggios are enough to make your heart tighten.

ultra soulB’z

It’s one of B’z’s signature songs and a staple often performed at their live shows.

Even long after its release, it’s also known as a crowd-pleaser that many people still love to sing at karaoke! It’s not specifically about summer, but the passionate sound, the empowering, forward-looking lyrics, and that famous part at the end of the chorus where everyone shouts together all give it a perfect summer vibe.

I think it would be a great choice not only for karaoke, but also as background music for outdoor activities or a drive—guaranteed to get everyone pumped up!

BLUE BIRDHamasaki Ayumi

Ayumi Hamasaki, who made her debut as a singer in 1998, is an indispensable artist for those in their late 20s.

She dominated the music scene in the 2000s with numerous hit songs, but when it comes to summer tracks, this one stands out.

It starts gently like a ballad, then flips at the chorus—everyone knows that catchy, pleasant melody that unfolds over a danceable beat.

It’s a song that evokes quintessential summer scenery—blue skies, the sea, and sandy beaches—and sets your heart ablaze.

Baby, I love youTEE

Singer-songwriter TEE, who was moved by the music he encountered while studying abroad and began his musical career, released a second single, “Baby I Love You,” chosen as the ending theme for the music show COUNT DOWN TV.

Its catchy phrases and passionate lyrics leave a strong impression.

The beautiful melody spun by his sweet voice is sure to color the sizzling summer vividly.

It’s a song almost everyone has heard at least once, making it a perfect number for everyone to sing along to while driving.