Summer song medley. Timeless and popular tracks that color the summer.

Live the summerGreen Yellow Society

Ryokuoushoku Shakai “Living the Summer” Music Video / Ryokuoushoku Shakai

This is a song by Ryokuoushoku Shakai that portrays the brilliance of summer and the strength of the people who live within it.

It combines a cider-like freshness with the resilience to stand up even when covered in mud, and it just might give courage to those who listen.

Not only the sparkle of youth, but also the earnest effort and passion behind it, come through on a driving, exhilarating sound.

Released in July 2020, the track is widely known as the theme song for tvk’s “RIDE OF KANAGAWA 2020 High School Baseball.” A special edition centered around this song was also included in the album “SINGALONG,” released in September of the same year.

It’s an uplifting anthem that gives you a strong push forward when you’re taking on a challenge or feeling a bit worn out by the summer heat.

LIFEKimaguren

Kimaguren – LIFE

Here’s a track that pairs perfectly with the summer sun—just listening to it makes your heart dance.

Performed by Kimaguren, this piece brims with upbeat energy, blending the light tones of acoustic guitar with straightforward lyrics that cheer you on to “live true to yourself!” Released in May 2008, the single became their first to break into the top 20 on the Oricon charts.

It was even used as a TV theme song, in commercials, and as a train station approach melody.

It’s ideal as background music for summer drives, barbecues, or days by the sea—and when you’re tackling a new challenge or feeling a bit down, it just might give you the courage you need.

Our Summer DreamTatsuro Yamashita

PROJECT NAGASAKI - Our Summer Dream -

This is a song by Tatsuro Yamashita that evokes a nostalgic feeling, like a summer evening.

The beautiful melody woven by piano and strings makes it feel as if you’re watching a film from start to finish.

The lyrics seem to carry images of Japan’s lost pastoral landscapes and a gentle wish for the future, and listening to it may slowly warm your heart.

It’s a track with a warm theme that conveys bonds with loved ones and a sense of hope.

Released as a single in August 2009, it moved many people as the theme song for director Mamoru Hosoda’s animated film “Summer Wars.” It’s perfect for a summer drive with the windows down, feeling the breeze, and just as fitting for nights when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood.

Sing it at karaoke, and it’s sure to resonate with everyone.

mixMarcy

Marcy – Mix (Official Music Video)

Known as the song from the Google Pixel 7a web commercial, this track by Marcy has captured the hearts of many.

Its delicate, emotional melody creates an atmosphere where the bittersweetness and warmth of late summer coexist.

It carefully depicts the subtle movements and tremors of the heart in love, gently resonating with listeners.

Released in August 2023, the song is also included on the album Candle.

End of SummerShota Shimizu

Shota Shimizu “Natsunoowari” from SHOTA SHIMIZU LIVE TOUR 2023 “Insomnia” supported by Taica

This song is a lovely ballad that captures the unique loneliness everyone feels at least once at the end of summer.

Its bittersweet yet beautiful melody seeps deep into the heart, evoking memories of a summer romance that ended too soon and a nostalgia too delicate to put into words.

Shota Shimizu’s soulful, sometimes fragile vocals bring that scene to life with even greater clarity.

The track appears on Shota Shimizu’s fifth album, ENCORE, released in March 2014.

It’s perfect for listening alone on a late summer night.

Summer memories scented by the windAAA

AAA / “Summer Memories Fragrant on the Breeze” Music Video

A song whose bittersweet yet beautiful melody seeps into the heart, like recalling an old love in a fleeting moment on a summer evening.

Don’t the memories AAA sings of—days of summer now gone and a fragile romance—spread through your chest like a pale watercolor? The track was included as the B-side to AAA’s single “Wake up!” released in July 2014, and later featured on the album “GOLD SYMPHONY” released the same year, as well as the following year’s best-of collection “AAA 10th ANNIVERSARY BEST.” It was used in Ito-Yokado’s yukata commercial, coloring the memories of many alongside the sights and sounds of summer.

For those who want to soak in a sentimental mood at summer’s end, this song will gently stay by your side, bringing you close to those sweet-and-sour memories of days gone by.

Chilled Soba with Green OnionsCody Lee (Li)

Cody・Lee (Lee) – Chilled Green Onion Soba (Music Video)

This song by Cody・Lee (李) is a captivating piece where everyday city life intersects with faint summertime memories.

The lyrics mention several specific places in Tokyo, and seem to depict memories of a past romance and the small joys of daily life—listening to it may stir a sense of nostalgia.

Its light sound, evocative of city pop and indie rock, deftly portrays a scene where the languor of summer, the hustle of the city, and a touch of bittersweet emotion all mingle together.

Included on their major-label debut album, “Heartbeat, Love Letters, and Kindness,” released in May 2022, the track is a special one for the band, with drummer Taki Hara taking the lead in crafting the lyrics together with vocalist Hibiki Takahashi.

If you listen to it at summer dusk or when you suddenly find yourself reminiscing, it’s sure to resonate.

Add it to your playlist as a staple for the season.