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 hits and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (101–110)

Carry OnKygo, Rita Ora

Carry On (from the Original Motion Picture “POKÉMON Detective Pikachu”) (Official Video)

Carry OnKygo, Rita Ora

A collaboration between Norwegian DJ Kygo, renowned for his tropical house productions, and Rita Ora, a London-raised singer-songwriter who also works as a model.

It also appears on the soundtrack for the film POKÉMON Detective Pikachu, released on May 3, 2019.

Set by the seaside, the song conveys straightforward feelings, making it perfect for August! Be sure to pay attention to her crystal-clear vocals, too!

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Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande – Rain On Me (Official Music Video)

Rain On MeLady Gaga, Ariana Grande

Featuring a distinct, somewhat nostalgic bassline reminiscent of 2000s French filter house, this track is perfect for the hot days of August.

Contrary to what the title might suggest, it’s surprisingly upbeat and refreshingly uplifting.

It’s also great for the rainy season leading into summer—its brisk momentum blows away the heavy humidity.

Is this the 2020s take on future house? It carries a nostalgic vibe that subtly nods to old-school house music.

Lady Gaga and Ariana Grande had never collaborated before, making this a long-awaited pairing for fans.

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Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi

Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee

Despacito ft. Daddy YankeeLuis Fonsi

The song “Despacito ft.

Daddy Yankee” by Puerto Rican singers Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee, released in 2017, quickly became popular after its music video was posted on YouTube, reaching 3.

8 billion views in eight months.

It’s a recommended summer song for fans of Latin pop.

The guitar sound and the refreshing vocals that make you want to listen by the seaside create a pleasant experience.

It has been covered around the world, so it’s fun to compare different versions.

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LovelyMakua Rothman

Lovely – Makua Rothman (Audio Only)

LovelyMakua Rothman

This is a song called Lovely by Makua Rothman, a surfer from Hawaii, released in 2013.

It’s included on the album Sound Wave.

It’s a very sweet love song that evokes an evening beach.

The laid-back arrangement takes you to Hawaii—if only in spirit!

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Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Since its release in 2014, the masterpiece “Uptown Funk ft.

Bruno Mars,” created by Mark Ronson—active in the UK as a DJ and music producer—and the globally captivating Bruno Mars, has quickly sold 20 million copies.

In Japan, it was also featured in a Honda FIT commercial.

It’s an uptempo track that makes you want to step outside and walk with a spring in your step—an irresistible song that’s guaranteed to get you pumped up in the glimmering summer.

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[2025] A Roundup of Classic Western Songs and Popular Summer Anthems to Listen to in August (111–120)

Don’t wannna knowMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Don’t Wanna Know (Official Music Video)

Don't wannna knowMaroon 5

This is the song “Don’t Wanna Know,” a collaboration between Maroon 5 and rapper Kendrick Lamar.

It’s included on the 2017 album Red Pill Blues.

The track is a smooth, funk-tinged tune that sings of a man unable to move on after a breakup.

Adam Levine’s vocals resonate with a poignant sadness.

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SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5’s “Sugar” became a hot topic for its music video featuring surprise performances at weddings.

Released as a single from their 2014 album V, it reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

It’s a love song that sweetly professes affection and is hugely popular at weddings, but it’s also so danceable that it makes you want to start moving—making it a perfect BGM choice for summer outings as well.

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