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 hits to listen to in August: popular summer anthems (91–100)

Burnin’ Up The CarnivalJoe Sample

Joe Sample – Burnin’ Up The Carnival

Burnin' Up The CarnivalJoe Sample

Joe Sample, the legendary pianist of the fusion world who sadly passed away in 2014.

While he played instrumentals with his band The Crusaders, this song was released as his first track featuring vocals.

In Japan, it was released under the straightforward title “Moeru Carnival” (“Burning Carnival”).

Joe Sample has many other Latin-tinged pieces, but since this track includes vocals, it’s also recommended for those who don’t usually listen to fusion or are just getting into it.

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Only HumanJonas Brothers

Jonas Brothers – Only Human (Official Audio)

Only HumanJonas Brothers

When the temperature starts to rise, don’t you find yourself looking for songs that evoke hot countries? Jonas Brothers’ “Only Human” is perfect for you! It’s not full-on folk music, but it’s a track that conjures images of hot places like South America.

Since their 2019 reunion, they’ve been on an unstoppable roll, and this song lets you hear a different side of them.

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What A Man Gotta DoJonas Brothers

Jonas Brothers – What A Man Gotta Do (Official Video)

What A Man Gotta DoJonas Brothers

The Jonas Brothers are a pop-rock band made up of the eldest son Kevin, the second son Joe, and the youngest son Nick.

Although they’re labeled as a pop-rock band, they release songs across virtually any genre, and the differing vibes from one release to another are part of their charm.

A track by the Jonas Brothers that I’d recommend as perfect for August is “What A Man Gotta Do.” It’s not a tropical-sounding song, but its uptempo feel makes it a great fit for summer.

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That Summer FeelingJonathan Richman

Jonathan Richman – That Summer Feeling

That Summer FeelingJonathan Richman

Jonathan Richman is a singer with a devoted following in Japan.

Continuing to perform in his unique style of guitar-and-vocal with minimal drums, he also drew attention in 1998 for appearing in the film “There’s Something About Mary” and contributing music.

This song, one of his signature numbers, evokes the feel of a languid midsummer afternoon.

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Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, GiveonJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, Giveon

Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, GiveonJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber’s hit “Peaches (ft.

Daniel Caesar, Giveon),” released in 2021, features R&B singers Giveon and Daniel Caesar and shines with its modern R&B appeal.

This song marked Justin Bieber’s full-fledged shift into R&B.

Reflecting that background, the melody fuses the currently trending 1980s-inspired sounds and structures with contemporary R&B phrases, resulting in an upbeat, groove-driven track.

It’s a perfect recommendation for anyone looking to chill with a cool song during the hot summer.

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