Lovely summer song

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

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!
Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

In recent years, Japan has seen record-breaking heat waves every summer, and August in particular is packed with parties, leisure activities, and music festivals—events where people get pumped up listening to music.

Creating a driving playlist to color your summer memories is one of the season’s pleasures—there must be plenty of music fans who do it every year.

In this article, we’re showcasing a slew of Western summer anthems perfect for August, focusing on the latest hits and popular tracks.

From uptempo numbers to mellow tunes that suit a summer sunset, enjoy these classics that fit a variety of moments.

[2025] A roundup of classic Western songs and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (81–90)

I Will SurviveGloria Gaynor

I Will Survive

I Will SurviveGloria Gaynor

Gloria Gaynor, an American singer, released “I Will Survive” in 1978.

In Japanese, it was released under the title “Koi no Survival.” Her powerful, soaring vocals are overwhelming.

As a love song, its bold, refreshing lyrics are especially appealing.

The latter half of the lyrics is filled with hope for life and can really lift your spirits, making it a fight song I recommend when you’re feeling down.

Enjoy the fiery melody that’s perfect for summer, and be sure to pay attention to the lyrics as well.

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Church On SundayGreen Day

church on sunday-green day

Church On SundayGreen Day

When it comes to the theme of a summer drive, I can’t help but think of Green Day.

I feel like crisp blue skies and exhilarating, straight-ahead punk rock are a perfect match.

They’re a band that both younger listeners and the Green Day generation can enjoy together.

Their breezy vibe and the way their band sound hasn’t changed are part of their charm.

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Summer Air (feat. Trevor Guthrie)Hardwell

Hardwell – Summer Air (feat. Trevor Guthrie) (Official Music Video)

Summer Air (feat. Trevor Guthrie)Hardwell

This refreshing, fast-paced track is perfect for midsummer outings! It’s “Summer Air” by DJ Hardwell.

It brings back that excitement we often felt as kids when summer vacation was about to start! A trip begins the moment you start planning it! With this song by your side, let’s enjoy summer to the fullest!

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As It WasHarry Styles

Harry Styles – As It Was (Official Video)

As It WasHarry Styles

“As It Was” is a single released in 2022 by Harry Styles, a member of the popular British group One Direction.

It reached number one on both the U.

S.

and U.

K.

charts.

The lyrics, which convey a determination to break with the past and move toward the future, are particularly striking.

Its brisk rhythm and synth sound also feel like an homage to a-ha’s massive hit “Take On Me.” On a hot day in August, a refreshing track like “As It Was” is just perfect.

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Watermelon SugarHarry Styles

Harry Styles – Watermelon Sugar (Official Video)

Watermelon SugarHarry Styles

Harry Styles, who is globally renowned as a member of One Direction.

Since the group went on hiatus, each member has pursued a solo music career, and among them, Harry has gained worldwide popularity for his particularly sophisticated sound.

Speaking of his summer songs, the classic has to be Watermelon Sugar.

It’s a track about an ex-lover, but rather than being a gloomy breakup song, it carries a cheerful, summery vibe.

Its tropical melody makes it a perfect fit for August.

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To Noise Making (Sing)Hozier

Hozier – To Noise Making (Sing) (Audio)

To Noise Making (Sing)Hozier

This song that somehow feels nostalgic is “To Noise Making (Sing)” by Hozier, a singer-songwriter from Ireland.

The clear, airy piano sound gives you an exciting feeling, as if you’ve stepped into a movie! It’s a track I’d love people to use when putting together their summer memories with a slideshow, for example.

I think it will make them feel even more special!

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[2025] A roundup of classic Western songs and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (91–100)

Follow YouImagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons – Follow You (Official Music Video)

Follow YouImagine Dragons

Imagine Dragons is an alternative rock band based in Las Vegas.

While rooted in alternative rock, they also incorporate pop and R&B elements, and have fans all over the world.

Among their songs, the one I recommend for August is Follow You.

Its upbeat melody is striking, and the energy stays high from start to finish.

If you’re looking for songs that boost your mood in summer, definitely give it a listen.

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