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 Collection of Popular Summer Anthems (111–120)

Livin’ La Vida LocaRicky Martin

Ricky Martin – Livin’ La Vida Loca (Official Video)

Livin' La Vida LocaRicky Martin

In 1999, Puerto Rican singer Ricky Martin released the iconic song “Livin’ la Vida Loca.” Japanese singer Hiromi Go’s “GOLDFINGER ’99” sets Japanese lyrics to the melody of “Livin’ la Vida Loca.” It’s such a familiar tune in Japan that you can’t help but hum the chorus.

The original “Livin’ la Vida Loca” is also a hot, sexy track that’s perfect for summer, so why not use it as a driving song for a date?

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[2026] A roundup of classic Western songs and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (121–130)

Big ft. GunnaRita Ora, Imanbek, David Guetta

RITA ORA, DAVID GUETTA, IMANBEK – BIG FT. GUNNA [OFFICIAL VIDEO]

Big ft. GunnaRita Ora, Imanbek, David Guetta

Sia, a singer-songwriter representing Australia; Imanbek, known as a leading producer of Kazakh electronic dance music; and David Guetta, a DJ representing France, come together on the masterpiece “Big ft.

Gunna.” With its stylish melody that evokes deep house, it’s sure to keep your summer cool and energetic.

A must-listen for fans of dance music.

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Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana

Santana – Smooth (Official Video) ft. Rob Thomas

Smooth ft. Rob ThomasSantana

A track released in 1999 by Santana, who rose from Mexico to become one of the world’s top guitarists, featuring Rob Thomas on vocals.

The song became a major hit not only in the United States but also in the United Kingdom and Canada.

Riding a Latin-style rhythm, the searing guitar and vocals evoke the scorching Mexican sun, making the hot summer even hotter.

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ObjectionShakira

Shakira – Objection (Tango) (Official HD Video)

ObjectionShakira

“Objection” is a single released in 2002 by Shakira, a singer-songwriter from Colombia.

It reached number one in Hungary and peaked at number two on the Australian charts.

Its sound—an innovative fusion of Argentine tango and rock—feels fresh.

In the music video, Shakira delivers a sultry dance that matches the song, giving it a distinctly Latin flavor.

It’s the perfect track for a scorching summer!

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Te FelicitoShakira, Rauw Alejandro

Shakira, Rauw Alejandro – Te Felicito (Official Video)

Te FelicitoShakira, Rauw Alejandro

Te Felicito is a collaboration between Shakira, the popular singer from Colombia, and Rauw Alejandro, a rising rapper in the Latin scene.

Released in the lead-up to the summer of 2022, the single has climbed high on Latin music charts in various countries.

While it has a laid-back tempo, its crisp guitar strumming and Latin rhythms give it a danceable feel.

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SeñoritaShawn Mendes & Camila Cabello

Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello – Señorita

SeñoritaShawn Mendes & Camila Cabello

This is the song “Señorita,” a collaboration between Canadian singer Shawn Mendes and Cuban-born singer-songwriter Camila Cabello.

Their stunningly attractive pairing shines, and it’s a hot, summery love song.

Camila’s heartrending vocals pierce the heart.

It’s the perfect track to play at just the right moment!

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Floating Through SpaceSia and David Guetta

Sia and David Guetta – Floating Through Space (Official)

Floating Through SpaceSia and David Guetta

A masterpiece by Sia, a leading Australian artist, and David Guetta, a leading French music producer: “Floating Through Space.” The song’s theme is peace, but considering the times, I believe it was likely created with COVID in mind.

The melody has a high-energy, summery feel.

It would really liven up a barbecue or party, so definitely give it a listen.

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