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] Classic Western songs to listen to in August: a roundup of popular summer anthems (81–90)

Break My HeartDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Break My Heart (Official Video)

Break My HeartDua Lipa

Dua Lipa, a UK-born singer whose house music–based style has earned high praise worldwide.

Known for her stylish sound, she showcases that identity to the fullest in Break My Heart as well.

While the verses and pre-chorus are stylish, the simple vocal phrases in the chorus are especially sleek and highly recommended.

If you’re looking to add a touch of cool to the hot month of August, this is a must-check track!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Levitating Featuring DaBabyDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Levitating Featuring DaBaby (Official Music Video)

Levitating Featuring DaBabyDua Lipa

Dua Lipa, the UK-born singer whose sophisticated musical style has won fans worldwide, bases much of her work on house music.

However, Levitating Featuring DaBaby departs from her usual approach, embracing a disco vibe.

With the recent resurgence of 1980s disco as a trend, songs with this kind of sound are becoming more common, but many listeners will find this track distinctive thanks to Dua Lipa’s unmistakable vocals.

It’s a stylish number that will keep your summer cool and lively.

Be sure to check it out.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Love AgainDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Love Again (Official Music Video)

Love AgainDua Lipa

Dua Lipa, a UK-born singer with a husky low voice and stylish musicality, has earned enduring popularity among fans worldwide.

While she’s known for her upbeat tracks, her new song “Love Again” also captivates with the same stylish, danceable structure as always.

Though she has long released house-based tracks, this piece takes a pop approach that evokes disco music.

Its chic melody is perfect for livening up August BBQs and parties—be sure to give it a listen.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits [Official Video]

Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter who scored worldwide hits with songs like “Shape of You” and “Perfect,” is also hugely popular in Japan.

His track “Bad Habits,” released in 2021, showcases a different side of him with an electronic sound.

The song was created with a vampire motif in mind, and the melody carries a cool, chilly feel.

How about cooling off this hot August by listening to this track?

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

“Shape of You,” which won Best Pop Solo Performance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, was released in 2017.

Since its release, it has topped numerous charts and become a long-running hit.

The song features a pleasant tempo and Ed Sheeran’s clean, refreshing vocals.

Although he has many great tracks and has won the Grammy Awards four times, “Shape of You” stands out as a breezy, easy listen—perfect for summer.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem