[2026] Best melancholic summer classics in Western music: recommended popular songs

Farewell My SummerLloveMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Farewell my summer love

The song was recorded in 1973, when Michael was still in his mid-teens, but it didn’t see the light of day until about a decade later, in 1984.

It was included on the album “Farewell My Summer Love 1984.” Just before his voice changed, Michael sings in a boy soprano about a fleeting summer romance.

When the long vacation ends, he has to say goodbye to her.

I’m sure I’ll never forget.

It’s a song that captures those bittersweet memories.

Watcha Gonna Do For MeNed Doheny

Ned Doheny – Watcha gonna do for me

Ned Doheny is a singer-songwriter from the United States, known as one of the leading artists of AOR.

The song known in Japan as “Koi no Happening” was a piece he wrote for Chaka Khan.

His self-cover version on his 1988 album Life After Romance has a charmingly light touch.

Sad Songs In The SummerOlivia O’Brien

Olivia O’Brien – Sad Songs In The Summer (Official Video)

Some of you may be heartbroken and looking for a poignant ballad.

If that’s you, I highly recommend “Sad Songs In The Summer.” It’s a work by Olivia O’Brien, known for her clear, airy vocals.

The song tells the story of a woman who, after a breakup, tries to listen to love ballads associated with summer but gives up because they threaten to bring back memories of her ex.

As you listen, pay attention to whose songs she’s about to play, and give it a try.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem

Against All Odds(Take A Look At Me Now)）Phil Collins

Phil Collins – Against All Odds (Take A Look At Me Now) (Official Music Video)

Japanese title: “I Want You to Look at Me.” This song is a single released in 1984 by the British singer Phil Collins.

It was used in the film “Against All Odds” (Japanese title: “A Hot Night in the Caribbean”).

The movie is set in the Caribbean, featuring plenty of beautiful ocean scenery.

Phil’s song became a hit and added luster to the production.

Baja CaliforniaReik

Reik – Baja California (Video Oficial)

Reik’s new song, perfectly suited to tropical seas, is a moving piece themed around love and memory.

While depicting happy moments by the shores of Baja California, it sings of a love that doesn’t fade with time—sure to resonate with anyone nostalgic for a past romance.

Released in April 2024, the music video—paired with stunning imagery of a crimson sunset—seems to have captivated many listeners.

In less than a month, the song has soared to No.

5 on Mexico’s pop charts.

It’s a perfect track not only for fans of love songs, but also for those moments when you want to look back on life’s cherished memories.

Summer SongRemy Bond

Remy Bond – Summer Song (Official Music Video)

Remy Bond’s track is a bittersweet summer anthem inspired by late-1960s to early-1970s American culture.

Created in collaboration with the French electronic duo Air, its sound feels nostalgic yet fresh.

The lyrics evoke summer road trips and the freedom of youth, reminding listeners of fleeting moments of adolescence.

Released on June 28, 2024, the song drew significant attention, surpassing one million streams on Spotify.

Inspired by Sofia Coppola’s 1999 film The Virgin Suicides, it’s best enjoyed while driving at dusk.

augustTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – august (Official Lyric Video)

Taylor Swift, an American singer with many fans in Japan.

The song that drew attention when she performed at the 2021 Grammy Awards was “august.” As the title suggests, it’s a love song about a romance in August.

The track is highly narrative, portraying with realism the feelings of a woman struggling in a love triangle.

With guitar and synthesizer at its core, the music has a calm atmosphere, making it perfect for when you want to cool down.

Be sure to check out the unusually wistful music video for a Taylor Swift work, too.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

yamamoto

Report a problem