Lovely summer song

[2025] Classic Western love songs to listen to on Tanabata: tracks about stars and the Milky Way

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!
Pop music writer/editorKEI
A style that keeps updating my favorites while loving mainstream and hit songs. I have experience writing articles for outlets like Utaten. Since I discovered music as a student, I’ve mainly listened to Japanese and Korean pop. 2000s J-POP and 2010s K-POP were my youth, and I’m also loosely into jazz and R&B. I enjoy good music across genres with a “good is good” mindset. Thanks to my past work environment (and its influence), I listened to a lot of classic rock and kayōkyoku, which may have broadened my tastes. At RAG MUSIC, I mainly cover K-POP. I focus on reviews that emphasize feelings people can relate to, and on editing aligned with local pride and hit potential. Thank you!

When it comes to events in July, many people probably think of Tanabata first, but in fact, Tanabata is a Chinese festival that was introduced to Japan during the Nara period.

In the West, it’s said that there are also customs of celebrating Tanabata in places like the United States via Japan, and there are several songs themed around the Milky Way, which is indispensable to Tanabata.

So this time, under the theme of classic Western songs you’ll want to listen to on Tanabata, we’ll introduce tracks that sing about the Milky Way, the starry sky, and the stars.

We’ve also picked songs that mention the Milky Way in their lyrics, so you might make some unexpected discoveries.

[2025] Classic Western songs to listen to on Tanabata: love songs about stars and the Milky Way (21–30)

Written In The StarsJohn Legend X WENDY

[STATION X 0] John Legend X 웬디 (WENDY) ‘Written In The Stars’ MV

Written In The StarsJohn Legend X WENDY

“Written In The Stars” is a collaboration between John Legend, a frequent Grammy-winning artist, and Wendy of the popular Korean idol group Red Velvet.

It was released in 2018 as part of a digital distribution project by a Korean label.

The lyrics portray two people bound by the stars, reminiscent of Orihime and Hikoboshi, making it a perfect number for Tanabata.

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We’ll Be the StarsSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter – We’ll Be the Stars (Official Video)

We'll Be the StarsSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter is a U.

S.

-born singer who also thrives as an actress, making the most of her cute looks.

Her 2015 release “We’ll Be the Stars” is a love song themed around “stars.” It boasts a dynamic sound that evokes a vast, grand world.

The choral arrangements unfolding alongside her soaring vocals will resonate with your heart.

The lyrics express a wish to become stars with a loved one, perfectly matching the romantic atmosphere of Tanabata.

Try listening to it by the side of a partner you hope to be with forever.

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Love On TopBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Love On Top (Official Video)

Love On TopBeyoncé

In today’s music scene, Beyoncé’s presence is overwhelming! The mid-tempo R&B track included on her 2011 album “4” captivates with a sound that feels like classic ’80s soul music reimagined for the modern era.

Beyoncé’s commanding vocal performance rides an exhilarating groove and shimmering synthesizers, delivering a fresh, uplifting ode to the joy of being in love.

The lyrics express feelings for a lover in a straightforward way, brightening and warming the listener’s heart.

This celebrated song—also famous for her pregnancy announcement performance at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards—is a must-hear for couples who have pledged their future to each other.

Be sure to pay attention to the romantic lines as well, such as “I can see the stars from my window.”

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Versace on the FloorBruno Mars

Bruno Mars – Versace on the Floor (Official Music Video)

Versace on the FloorBruno Mars

“Versace on the Floor” is a 2016 hit by Bruno Mars that lets you revel in a glamorous, sexy vibe—like spending a romantic night with the one you love while sipping champagne.

In the music video, Bruno Mars plays the piano and sings tenderly, revealing a side of him that’s a bit different from his party-loving persona.

The final scene, where Zendaya slips out of her Versace dress, aligns perfectly with the song’s lyrical world and doubles the sensuality.

It’s a romantic love song that evokes an evening under the starry sky with someone special—one you’ll want to savor.

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A Sky Full Of StarsColdplay

Coldplay – A Sky Full Of Stars (Live at River Plate)

A Sky Full Of StarsColdplay

A masterpiece that sprinkles sparkle into the listener’s heart, like the twinkling that colors a starry sky.

Blending pop and electronic elements, this work exudes a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Tanabata night.

Its light-filled melody is breathtakingly beautiful, stirring a flutter in the chest.

Featured on the May 2014 album “Ghost Stories,” it also drew attention as a collaboration with Avicii.

Listen closely and you’ll find a refreshing sound and wistful lyrics that conjure the tale of lovers crossing the Milky Way, creating a fantastical world.

The vocals, passionate yet tender, will leave you dreaming and make for the perfect summer night.

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YellowColdplay

Coldplay – Yellow (Official Video)

YellowColdplay

A song distinguished by a melody that races among the stars and beautiful lyrics.

It’s a classic ballad that expresses the depth of love—“I want to stay by your side forever, like a star shining yellow just for you.” Chris Martin’s crystal-clear high tones match perfectly with a soundscape that evokes the Milky Way.

Released in July 2000 as the second single from the album Parachutes, it reached No.

4 on the UK charts and has become one of Coldplay’s signature songs, beloved around the world.

It’s a perfect choice for a romantic Tanabata night—a beautiful love song that makes you want to listen to it with someone special, and that conveys the feeling of eternal love.

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Like A StarCorinne Bailey Rae

Corinne Bailey Rae – Like A Star (New Version)

Like A StarCorinne Bailey Rae

A track that captivates with its soulful vocals and heartwarming acoustic sound.

Featured on the 2006 debut album “Corinne Bailey Rae,” this song put Corinne Bailey Rae’s name on the world stage.

With lyrics that liken feelings for a loved one to the stars, it’s perfect for the Tanabata night sky.

Nominated for a Grammy and peaking at No.

32 on the UK Singles Chart, it’s a soothing love song you’ll want to listen to together on a quiet night.

Highly recommended for anyone looking to spend a romantic time under the stars.

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