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 (41–50)

My Cherie AmourStevie Wonder

My Cherie Amour

My Cherie AmourStevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s celebrated ballad “My Cherie Amour” is a classic that sings of deep love and yearning for a sweetheart.

Released in 1969, the song is said to be based on Stevie’s personal experiences, expressing his feelings for his then-girlfriend, Syreeta Wright, through its beautiful melody.

The lyrics, which portray an affection for a woman as lovely as a summer’s day alongside the ache of feeling she is as distant as the stars, captivate listeners and never let go.

With a universal message that resonates with those in love and those who are not, this piece stands as one of Stevie’s signature songs, and it’s easy to see why it remains beloved by so many.

It’s a perfect track to play when you want to express love to someone special or create a romantic atmosphere.

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[2025] Classic Western songs to listen to on Tanabata: Love songs about stars and the Milky Way (51–60)

StarlightTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – Starlight (Taylor’s Version) (Lyric Video)

StarlightTaylor Swift

It’s a signature song by Taylor Swift that depicts a magical night spent with a lover under the starry sky.

Inspired by the youthful love story of the Kennedy couple, the track is featured on the album Red and was released in 2012.

Its sweet melody and heartfelt lyrics lift the listener’s spirits.

It’s perfect for Tanabata night and also recommended as background music for a nighttime drive under the stars.

Not only for those in love, but also for anyone who wants to bask in a romantic mood.

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In conclusion

Have you found any favorites among the many classic Western songs perfect for Tanabata? Songs about stars and starry skies are easy to picture, but it’s interesting that some tracks themed around the “Milky Way” approach it from perspectives different from ours as Japanese.

If any songs catch your fancy, be sure to check the lyrics and savor them closely!