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 (91–100)

Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, GiveonJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, Giveon

Peaches ft. Daniel Caesar, GiveonJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber’s hit “Peaches (ft.

Daniel Caesar, Giveon),” released in 2021, features R&B singers Giveon and Daniel Caesar and shines with its modern R&B appeal.

This song marked Justin Bieber’s full-fledged shift into R&B.

Reflecting that background, the melody fuses the currently trending 1980s-inspired sounds and structures with contemporary R&B phrases, resulting in an upbeat, groove-driven track.

It’s a perfect recommendation for anyone looking to chill with a cool song during the hot summer.

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SorryJustin Bieber

Justin Bieber – Sorry (Lyric Video)

SorryJustin Bieber

Among the dance-pop hits that took America by storm, this track stands out as one of the earliest with a tropical vibe—perfect for the height of summer in August.

It’s no exaggeration to say that this song helped popularize tropical-flavored tracks worldwide.

When it comes to tropical house incorporating island-inspired sounds, you’ve probably heard this at least once.

A gentle apology to a lover, the song is included on Justin Bieber’s smash-hit album “Purpose,” released on October 23, 2015.

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[2025] A roundup of classic Western hits and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (101–110)

What Do You Mean?Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber – What Do You Mean?

What Do You Mean?Justin Bieber

This is Justin Bieber’s song “What Do You Mean?” released in 2015.

It sings of a man’s aching heart being tossed around by a woman’s fickle feelings.

The beautiful piano tones and his mournful vocals suit the mood of the track perfectly.

Summer is said to be a fun season, but there are surely people who can’t catch that wave.

At times like that, listen to this song and enjoy a cool summer!

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WATATIKAROL G

KAROL G – WATATI (feat. Aldo Ranks) (From Barbie The Album) [Official Music Video]

WATATIKAROL G

Karol G, a singer-songwriter from Colombia, is attracting a lot of attention.

Her song “WATATI” is sung in Spanish, Colombia’s official language, and its sound meshes perfectly with the Latin-flavored track, making it a supreme, high-energy tune.

It’s a perfect summer track that will heat you up just by listening.

Notably, it features Panamanian singer and rapper Aldo Ranks, whose cheerful rap sprinkled with laughter is guaranteed to lift your spirits!

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AfricaKarl Wolf

Karl Wolf – africa

AfricaKarl Wolf

This is an arrangement of Toto’s legendary hit “Africa” by Lebanese singer-songwriter Karl Wolf.

It’s included on his 2007 album Bite The Bullet.

The vocal harmonies are really beautiful, and Culture’s rap adds a great touch!

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California GurlsKaty Perry

Katy Perry – California Gurls (Official Music Video) ft. Snoop Dogg

California GurlsKaty Perry

This sexy, poppy song so characteristic of Katy Perry is sprinkled with summery words throughout.

It’s the kind of track you want to play while driving in hot, dry weather.

Unfortunately, we don’t often get to experience that kind of crisp, dry summer here in Japan.

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ElectricKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Electric

ElectricKaty Perry

Katy Perry is known for her powerful vocals and strong messages, and she’s hugely popular in Japan as well.

Her song “Electric,” released in 2021, became a global hit.

True to her signature style, this track carries a compelling message, with lyrics that emphasize the importance of facing challenges and that nothing will change unless you take action yourself.

As August’s heat can make it easy to slack off, why not listen to this song to boost your motivation?

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