Lovely summer song

[2026] A Roundup of Classic Western Songs and Popular Summer Anthems to Listen to in August

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
With the motto “Learn the basics and enjoy putting them into practice,” I worked as a vocal coach specializing in Western music. As a teen, I questioned the idea that “Western music equals English,” and started listening to songs from around the world. Today, I devour music from over 80 countries and run a personal blog introducing tracks. I often listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. I’ll keep updating articles daily to find the one perfect song you’re looking for!

In recent years, Japan has seen record-breaking heat waves every summer, and August in particular is packed with parties, leisure activities, and music festivals—events where people get pumped up listening to music.

Creating a driving playlist to color your summer memories is one of the season’s pleasures—there must be plenty of music fans who do it every year.

In this article, we’re showcasing a slew of Western summer anthems perfect for August, focusing on the latest hits and popular tracks.

From uptempo numbers to mellow tunes that suit a summer sunset, enjoy these classics that fit a variety of moments.

[2026] A roundup of classic Western songs and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (61–70)

RunBecky Hill, Galantis

Becky Hill, Galantis – Run

RunBecky Hill, Galantis

The collaboration track “Run” by British singer Becky Hill and Swedish electro unit Galantis features a brisk, refreshing sound that’s perfect for summer.

Released as a single in 2022, it’s also included on the deluxe edition of her debut album, Only Honest on the Weekend.

It’s a love song about the struggles of romance, and its EDM-inspired rhythm and arrangement pair beautifully with the height-of-summer seaside.

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Get TogetherBig Mountain

GET TOGETHER by BIG MOUNTAIN – Official Big Mountain Video

Get TogetherBig Mountain

When you think of summer, many people think of reggae, right? Since it’s music from hot countries, it really suits the hot season.

Listening to their happy sound, you might forget the heat and find yourself dancing with a refreshing feeling.

I think they’re artists I can recommend to anyone listening to reggae for the first time.

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Lost CauseBillie Eilish

Billie Eilish – Lost Cause (Official Music Video)

Lost CauseBillie Eilish

Sweltering August.

Many of you might prefer stylish, cool sounds over similarly sweltering tracks, right? For those listeners, I recommend Billie Eilish’s “Lost Cause.” While she excels at languid, cool vibes, this track pairs an extremely simple arrangement with chic edge-voice phrases.

It’s a very cool piece that will refresh you when the heat feels oppressive.

If you like Yael Naim’s “Toxic,” this will be right in your strike zone—definitely check it out!

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BAILAR CONTIGOBlack Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee

Black Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee – BAILAR CONTIGO (Official Music Video)

BAILAR CONTIGOBlack Eyed Peas, Daddy Yankee

The Black Eyed Peas are a group that constantly drops big tunes, collaborating with a wide range of artists.

They’ve scored another hit—this one is a track featuring Daddy Yankee.

Reggaeton and the distinctive hip-hop the Black Eyed Peas excel at are a perfect match here.

Released in March 2023, the song is included on the album Elevation.

It’s also memorable for sampling Scatman John’s Scatman in the drop.

It’s a perfect track for summer drives and parties.

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GIRL LIKE MEBlack Eyed Peas, Shakira

Black Eyed Peas, Shakira – GIRL LIKE ME (Official Music Video)

GIRL LIKE MEBlack Eyed Peas, Shakira

The classic “GIRL LIKE ME” by Black Eyed Peas and Shakira.

Released in 2021, this track uses a very simple, contemporary sound while featuring a distinctive structure that evokes the 1980s.

Though highly unique, it remains firmly in the dance music style, with outstanding groove.

The track has a very cool, breezy vibe, so it might be perfect to listen to in the hot month of August.

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