Lovely nursery rhymes, folk songs, and children's songs

[Sunflower Songs] A selection of classic and popular tracks that give you energy in the hot summer

Accompanist / Piano InstructorYuri
Accompanist pianist × piano instructor × web writer. I began piano lessons at age four and, inspired by my piano teacher, decided to pursue music. I went on to specialized music programs in high school and university, where I discovered the appeal of accompanying instrumentalists and singers. Currently, alongside teaching piano, I work mainly in my home region of Aichi as an accompanist for flute, voice, choir, and more. Through lessons, my students often introduce me to trending songs, and my hobby is trying anything on the piano—Japanese and Western pop, commercial jingles, and beyond. Since 2021, I’ve also been active as a web writer, covering music and a variety of other genres.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Under the blazing summer sun, the sunflower gazes straight up at the sky.

Many of us have surely been moved by its powerful presence.

In this article, we’ll introduce recommended masterpieces and popular songs from among the many tracks themed around sunflowers.

We’ve gathered everything from songs that perfectly match the fresh, summery image of the flower to bittersweet pieces that completely transform how you think about sunflowers.

If you’re curious about “What songs feature sunflowers?”, be sure to read to the end!

[Sunflower Songs] A selection of classic and popular tracks that give you energy in the hot summer (71–80)

one side; one of a paireill

eill | Katappo (Official Music Video)

One-Sided eill

The song Katappo by singer-songwriter eill tells the story of a heartbreaking unrequited love.

Released digitally in October 2020, it was later included in the November mini-album LOVE/LIKE/HATE.

It portrays a painful farewell to a wonderful lover who bloomed brightly like a sunflower, shining like the sun.

The song depicts a very sorrowful scene where the many expressions of love the two shared fade away one by one with their tears.

If you’ve faced a painful, sad end to a summer romance, this track will surely help heal your heart.

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1/2Kanoerana

1/2

Kanae Enana (half)

Kanoerana is a singer-songwriter from the music school Voice, which has produced many artists active in the J-POP scene, and she made her major debut in 2016.

“1/2,” included on her cover album ‘“Precious” ~The Unleashed 2D Song Collection~, ’ is also known as one of Makoto Kawamoto’s signature tracks.

The lyrics, which depict straightforward feelings of love, combined with her cute vocals, evoke a refreshing summer vibe.

From the driving pre-chorus to the catchy hook, the arrangement is packed with memorable elements, making it a hit tune that sticks in your ears.

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Sunflower PathCherish

Sunflower Path, 1972

Sunflower Path Cherish

This is a song by the vocal group Cherish, who were active in the 1970s.

Released in 1972 as their third single, it was a hit that sold over 500,000 copies.

The lyrics express feelings that may someday fade and the ache of a bittersweet love.

Its retro sound evokes a sense of nostalgia.

Please give it a listen and reminisce about your youth and days gone by.

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Mahoro in SummerHarukamirai

Harukamirai – Summer Mahoro (Official Music Video)

Mahoro Haruka Mirai of Summer

Harukamirai’s “Natsu no Mahoro” pairs a melody brimming with speed and exhilaration with bittersweet lyrics that reflect on the passing summer.

It’s included on their 2020 album THE BAND STAR.

The fiery rock sound perfectly matches the image of sunflowers in full, energetic bloom! As you recall those summers spent absorbed in club activities and studying, you can feel your heart swell with an inexpressible nostalgia—sensing yourself gradually growing into adulthood.

Give it a listen at summer’s end as you look back on your memories, and let it bring back that unforgettable summer once more.

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sunflowerMakoto Kawamoto

Makoto Kawamoto “Sunflower” / Makoto Kawamoto – Himawari

Sunflower Makoto Kawamoto

A pioneering “guitar girl” known for hits like “1/2,” Makoto Kawamoto’s summer song “Himawari” is a track from her debut album released in 1997, which became a million seller.

Sometimes the scent of flowers can bring back memories, can’t it? This song, which depicts summer memories related to sunflowers and promises made in childhood, is wrapped in a bright yet slightly bittersweet mood.

It’s a standout track showcasing the exceptional expression of Makoto Kawamoto, often hailed as a genius, bringing back vivid memories from that time.

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Sunflower HillSeiko Matsuda

Seiko Matsuda / Sunflower Hill

Seiko Matsuda on the Hill of Sunflowers

Seiko Matsuda’s song “Himawari no Oka” enjoys enduring popularity among fans.

The cute yet heartrending lyrics, which only she could deliver, strike a chord.

Reflecting on the days and feelings she shared with the boyfriend she parted from, the song expresses her resolve to “look up at the sky like a sunflower and keep moving forward” from now on.

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Blue Sea BlueAtomic Skipper

Atomic Skipper – Blue Sea Blue (Music Video)

Blue Sea Blue Atomic Skipper

Atomic Skipper—known by the nickname “Atosuki” and drawing attention for their commanding vocals and rock-solid sound—is a four-piece rock band making waves.

Their third digital-only single, Blue Sea Blue, is a refreshing number that showcases the band’s trademark straight-ahead rock sound.

The lyrics evoke summer skies and the sea, and together with the driving ensemble, they’re sure to lift your spirits.

It’s a rock tune that brings a cool breeze to the hottest season—highly recommended as summer BGM.

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