[2025 Edition] Moving English-language songs to listen to in summer: tear-jerking masterpieces

drivers licenseOlivia Rodrigo

Olivia Rodrigo – drivers license (Official Video)

A gem of a ballad by American artist Olivia Rodrigo, layering the pain of heartbreak over the driver’s license—a symbol of youth.

Released in January 2021, her debut single portrays the protagonist’s inability to let go of feelings for an ex, expressed through the imagery of a solitary drive.

The piano-driven track’s emotional swells vividly convey the sense of loss when a promised future is suddenly severed, as well as the complex jealousy toward a new partner.

As the lead single from the album SOUR, it topped the charts in 25 countries worldwide.

This masterpiece offers deep comfort to those facing the end of a first love or feeling isolated at a turning point in life.

Our Last SummerABBA

Our Last Summer

A gem-like ballad that captures the beauty and bittersweetness of a youthful summer romance.

Crafted by ABBA, the world-renowned group from Sweden, and inspired by a love experience set in Paris, the song carefully portrays romantic scenes such as strolls along the Seine and conversations in cafés.

Frida’s emotionally rich vocals beautifully convey the brilliance of youth and a poignant longing for the passage of time, resonating deeply with listeners.

Released in November 1980 as a track on the album “Super Trouper,” it was also featured in a key scene of the musical “Mamma Mia!” Highly recommended for those wishing to reflect on memories of love or to indulge in gentle melancholy on a quiet night.

Summertime SadnessLana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey – Summertime Sadness (Official Music Video)

This song, which sings of the bittersweet yet beautiful feelings etched into the heart at summer’s end, remains beloved by many as one of American singer-songwriter Lana Del Rey’s signature works.

Released in June 2012 as a single from the album Born to Die, it is a ballad that weaves elements of dream pop and trip hop, poetically portraying a breakup with a lover and the fading of summer.

Its gentle 125 BPM tempo and wistful melody in C-sharp minor beautifully capture the sense of loss that arrives alongside sweet summer memories.

The remix by French DJ Cédric Gervais became a major hit, reaching No.

6 in the U.

S.

, and won a Grammy Award in 2014.

SaillingChristopher Cross

Christopher Cross – Sailing (Official Music Video) [Remastered HD]

A song that gives me a bittersweet feeling like the end of summer is Christopher Cross’s “Sailing.” Released as a single in 1979, it hit No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and became a massive success, winning the Grammy Awards for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Arrangement.

The soft, refreshing electric guitar arpeggios combined with Christopher’s sweet vocals create a unique sound that’s both wistful and romantic.

The lyrics inviting you to set sail evoke images of yachts and the sea, making it perfect for summer.

Don’t Judge MeChris Brown

Chris Brown – Don’t Judge Me

This moving song by Chris Brown showcases his impressive ability to sing everything from catchy four-on-the-floor tracks to R&B and ballads.

The straightforward lyrics exude a distinctly Western pop vibe, and their passionate tone makes them a perfect fit for hot summer days.

The Ocean ft. Shy MartinMike Perry

Mike Perry – The Ocean ft. Shy Martin

Mike Perry’s “The Ocean,” by the Swedish DJ, is a tropical house track that pairs perfectly with summer.

Released as a single in 2016, it features singer-songwriter SHY Martin as a guest.

It reached high positions on charts in countries like Sweden, Switzerland, and Austria.

With romantic lyrics that tell a lover “I want you closer,” it’s a love song at heart.

Its comfortable tempo also makes it a great pick for a driving playlist!

SunflowerPost Malone, Swae Lee

Post Malone, Swae Lee – Sunflower (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) (Official Video)

With its light rhythm and catchy pop sound, the collaboration “Sunflower” by Post Malone and Swae Lee is perfect for the blazing summer sun.

Released as a single in 2018, it was chosen as the theme song for the animated film Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, which premiered the same year.

It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for several awards, including Record of the Year at the 62nd Grammy Awards.

The lyrics, which depict a deteriorating relationship with his girlfriend, are heartrending when you listen closely.