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)

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Since its release in 2014, the masterpiece “Uptown Funk ft.

Bruno Mars,” created by Mark Ronson—active in the UK as a DJ and music producer—and the globally captivating Bruno Mars, has quickly sold 20 million copies.

In Japan, it was also featured in a Honda FIT commercial.

It’s an uptempo track that makes you want to step outside and walk with a spring in your step—an irresistible song that’s guaranteed to get you pumped up in the glimmering summer.

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Don’t wannna knowMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Don’t Wanna Know (Official Music Video)

Don't wannna knowMaroon 5

This is the song “Don’t Wanna Know,” a collaboration between Maroon 5 and rapper Kendrick Lamar.

It’s included on the 2017 album Red Pill Blues.

The track is a smooth, funk-tinged tune that sings of a man unable to move on after a breakup.

Adam Levine’s vocals resonate with a poignant sadness.

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SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5’s “Sugar” became a hot topic for its music video featuring surprise performances at weddings.

Released as a single from their 2014 album V, it reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

It’s a love song that sweetly professes affection and is hugely popular at weddings, but it’s also so danceable that it makes you want to start moving—making it a perfect BGM choice for summer outings as well.

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Summer Days (feat. Macklemore & Patrick Stump)Martin Garrix

Martin Garrix feat. Macklemore & Patrick Stump of Fall Out Boy – Summer Days (Official Video)

Summer Days (feat. Macklemore & Patrick Stump)Martin Garrix

Defined by a modern approach to dance-pop and the aggressive basslines characteristic of EDM, this track seamlessly fuses electro-funk with a subtly retro flair, evoking the arrival of August’s sweltering summer.

It’s a song by rising Dutch DJ/producer Martin Garrix, featuring popular rapper Macklemore and Fall Out Boy’s vocalist Patrick Stump—a 2019 hit.

Macklemore’s cool rap and Patrick’s soulful, outstanding vocals are nothing short of impressive, and blasting this track at high volume will instantly set the perfect summer vibe!

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Mother’s DaughterMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – Mother’s Daughter (Official Video)

Mother's DaughterMiley Cyrus

This is the song “Mother’s Daughter” by the charismatic pop singer Miley Cyrus.

As a feminist, she sings about women’s freedom and rights.

Sadly, male chauvinism remains a major problem around the world even today.

Summer may put us in an open, carefree mood, but why not take this opportunity, through this song, to think about women’s freedom and rights?

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