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 and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (21–30)

Never Really OverKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Never Really Over (Official Video)

Never Really OverKaty Perry

It’s an empowering number that feels like Katy Perry powerfully singing away a woman’s heartbreak.

The rapid-fire phrasing in the chorus and the four-on-the-floor beat are both highly polished, and together with the liberating visuals, it’s a refreshing work that seems to lift you out of sorrow.

It’s a song I highly recommend listening to while reading the lyrics to fully take in its message.

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Murakami Shinpei

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The NightsAvicii

Avicii – The Nights

The NightsAvicii

This is the song The Nights, released in 2015 by Avicii, a music producer from Sweden.

It’s about talking with his father about life.

Avicii sadly passed away in 2018.

This is one of the songs he released while he was still alive, and rereading the lyrics now feels especially moving.

August is also the season when many people return to their hometowns.

Having an open, heartfelt talk with your family could make for a wonderful summer memory.

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Locked Out Of HeavenBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Locked Out Of Heaven (Official Music Video)

Locked Out Of HeavenBruno Mars

I forgot the man who suits summer the most: Bruno Mars’s “Locked Out of Heaven.” It’s a rare rock number for him, but it’s a cool track.

The music video has the vibe of being performed in a club filled with heat, and there’s no doubt that its passionate lyrics and cool sound will color your summer.

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Blueberry FaygoLil Mosey

Lil Mosey – Blueberry Faygo (Official Music Video)

Blueberry FaygoLil Mosey

Its somewhat retro yet solid, bittersweet melody line is striking.

The sound is catchy and refreshing! A dance video trend is popular on TikTok, featuring a challenge where you twirl your arm and use hip movements to match the song.

You don’t see it as much in Asia, but it went viral in the West.

Most people try it solo, though some couples take on the challenge too.

The choreography isn’t difficult, so give it a try.

It’s especially recommended for women confident in their figure.

The music video shows a midsummer poolside, making it perfect for the hot days of August.

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Mas Que NadaSergio Mendes feat. Black Eyed Peas

Sergio Mendes feat. Black Eyed Peas – Mas Que Nada

Mas Que NadaSergio Mendes feat. Black Eyed Peas

I don’t think I’m the only one who wants to listen to Latin music when summer comes.

“Mas Que Nada” is a bossa nova standard, and it was Sergio Mendes’s 1966 version that made the song famous.

That hit put Sergio Mendes on the world stage.

This version featuring the American hip-hop group the Black Eyed Peas is insanely cool!

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