[2026] Must-Listen Western Rock: Popular and Recommended Classic Songs for Summer

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.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Spring, summer, autumn, winter—many music lovers keep playlists of songs they want to listen to when each season comes around.

In this article, under the theme “Rock Songs to Listen to in Summer,” we’ve compiled recommended summer tracks spanning the 1960s to the 2020s—from recent hits and fan favorites to timeless classics.

Of course, “rock” covers a wide range of styles, so you’re sure to find summer songs you’ll love.

Be sure to check it out and enjoy it as your soundtrack for this summer!

[2026] Songs to Hear in Summer! Popular and Recommended Classic Western Rock Tracks (51–60)

White SummerLed Zeppelin

White Summer (10/8/69 Playhouse Theatre) (Remaster)

White SummerLed Zeppelin

A classic by Led Zeppelin, with an ear-pleasing melody that evokes the summer sun.

Though instrumental, Jimmy Page’s guitar weaves an Oriental-tinged tone that creates an exotic atmosphere.

Included on the Led Zeppelin Boxed Set released in September 1990 and later featured in multiple box sets, this track stands as an important example of the band’s musical range.

Recorded in London on June 27, 1969, it’s a perfect summertime piece that makes you feel as if you’re relaxing at a seaside café—highly recommended for those who want to enjoy rock with a refreshing vibe.

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One Kiss Don’t Make A SummerLucky Soul

One Kiss Don’t Make A Summer

One Kiss Don't Make A SummerLucky Soul

Lucky Soul is a British rock band that also enjoys great popularity in Japan, where they’ve even toured.

When it comes to their summer songs, “One Kiss Don’t Make A Summer” is the standout.

It’s a pop-rock track, and vocalist Ali Howard’s clear, crystalline voice adds a refreshing feel.

The lyrics brim with seasonal atmosphere, portraying a summer romance and the frustration of not closing the distance with someone you’ve just started getting to know.

Give it a listen while imagining that tantalizingly close yet elusive relationship.

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Indian SummerManic Street Preachers

Manic Street Preachers – Indian Summer (Official Video)

Indian SummerManic Street Preachers

It’s a perfect song for the end of summer, blending a slightly wistful mood with an energetic sound.

Included on the 2007 album “Send Away the Tigers,” it reached number 22 on the UK Singles Chart.

James Dean Bradfield’s powerful vocals and sharp, edgy guitar riffs leave a strong impression and carve themselves deeply into the listener’s heart.

The lyrics, themed around self-discovery and the loss of truth, evoke a sense of melancholy even amid summer’s brightness, resonating deeply with those who listen.

Whether you’re on a drive or relaxing by the seaside, playing this track might make your summer memories even more vivid.

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GIRLMaren Morris

Maren Morris – GIRL (Official Music Video)

GIRLMaren Morris

This track, which opens with an airy, warped guitar sound, is “GIRL” by the American country singer Maren Morris.

It’s included on her album of the same name, released in 2019.

Her powerful vocals can lift your spirits when you’re feeling down, and the candid lyrics are also a highlight.

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Master of PuppetsMetallica

Metallica-Master Of Puppets (Lyrics)

Master of PuppetsMetallica

A track where intensity and beauty fuse to perfection.

It kicks off with an odd-time riff, passes through a lyrical melody in the middle, and surges into a thunderous guitar solo—an unfolding that wraps the listener in breathless thrills.

Despite running over eight minutes, its structure never lets your attention waver—truly impressive.

Released in 1986 as the title track of the album “Metal Master,” it left a major mark on metal history.

A song every guitar-loving metal kid dreams of playing.

Perfect for a summer drive or whenever you want to get pumped up.

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