[2025] A roundup of classic hits and popular summer anthems in Western music to listen to in August

Need to KnowDoja Cat

Doja Cat – Need to Know (Official Video)

“Need to Know” is a track by American rapper and singer-songwriter Doja Cat, included on her album Planet Her, released in June 2021.

It’s a number defined by a laid-back tempo and languid sound, perfect for listening to on those hot, sleepless summer nights.

The lyrics portray a woman seductively pressing to “get to know” her partner, evoking a sense of mature femininity.

In the music video, Doja Cat appears as an alien partying in a futuristic club.

Hot StuffDonna Summer

Hot Stuff

Here’s a song you’ve probably heard somewhere before! It’s Donna Summer’s “Hot Stuff.” Included on her 1979 album “Bad Girls,” the powerful and catchy “Hot Stuff” became one of her signature tracks.

In Japan, it’s been used as background music on TV shows and even as the theme for a Diet Coke commercial in the early 2000s.

Many of you may find it very familiar.

It’s a hot track that just might blow away the summer heat!

Break My HeartDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Break My Heart (Official Video)

Dua Lipa, a UK-born singer whose house music–based style has earned high praise worldwide.

Known for her stylish sound, she showcases that identity to the fullest in Break My Heart as well.

While the verses and pre-chorus are stylish, the simple vocal phrases in the chorus are especially sleek and highly recommended.

If you’re looking to add a touch of cool to the hot month of August, this is a must-check track!

Levitating Featuring DaBabyDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Levitating Featuring DaBaby (Official Music Video)

Dua Lipa, the UK-born singer whose sophisticated musical style has won fans worldwide, bases much of her work on house music.

However, Levitating Featuring DaBaby departs from her usual approach, embracing a disco vibe.

With the recent resurgence of 1980s disco as a trend, songs with this kind of sound are becoming more common, but many listeners will find this track distinctive thanks to Dua Lipa’s unmistakable vocals.

It’s a stylish number that will keep your summer cool and lively.

Be sure to check it out.

Love AgainDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – Love Again (Official Music Video)

Dua Lipa, a UK-born singer with a husky low voice and stylish musicality, has earned enduring popularity among fans worldwide.

While she’s known for her upbeat tracks, her new song “Love Again” also captivates with the same stylish, danceable structure as always.

Though she has long released house-based tracks, this piece takes a pop approach that evokes disco music.

Its chic melody is perfect for livening up August BBQs and parties—be sure to give it a listen.

Bad HabitsEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Bad Habits [Official Video]

Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter who scored worldwide hits with songs like “Shape of You” and “Perfect,” is also hugely popular in Japan.

His track “Bad Habits,” released in 2021, showcases a different side of him with an electronic sound.

The song was created with a vampire motif in mind, and the melody carries a cool, chilly feel.

How about cooling off this hot August by listening to this track?

Shape of YouEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Shape of You (Official Music Video)

“Shape of You,” which won Best Pop Solo Performance at the 60th Annual Grammy Awards, was released in 2017.

Since its release, it has topped numerous charts and become a long-running hit.

The song features a pleasant tempo and Ed Sheeran’s clean, refreshing vocals.

Although he has many great tracks and has won the Grammy Awards four times, “Shape of You” stands out as a breezy, easy listen—perfect for summer.