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 (1–10)

Please Please PleaseSabrina Carpenter

Sabrina Carpenter – Please Please Please

Please Please PleaseSabrina Carpenter

A pop ballad that sings of the bittersweet feelings of love at summer’s end.

Its light, airy melody and Sabrina Carpenter’s delicate vocals blend beautifully to express the pain of heartbreak and the struggle with self-esteem.

Released in June 2024 and included on the album “Short n’ Sweet.” The music video features actor Barry Keoghan and portrays a relationship with a role-reversal theme.

A song that will resonate with those reminiscing about a summer romance or wrestling with love, and it’s perfect as background music for a seaside outing or a sunset drive.

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She’s Gone, Dance OnDisclosure

Disclosure – She’s Gone, Dance On (Official Video)

She’s Gone, Dance OnDisclosure

An energetic, dance-floor-igniting track has arrived.

This work by Disclosure expresses a determination to move forward after a breakup.

It samples Ennio Morricone’s “Dance On,” used in the 1978 film Così Come Se, delivering a refined electronic sound that elevates the mood.

Released on May 23, 2024, it is the first single unveiled after the album Alchemy.

Performed at major music festivals like Coachella, it captivated many audiences.

Why not give it a listen during summer nights—at parties with friends or for dance time on the beach?

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NastyTinashe

Tinashe – Nasty (Official Video)

NastyTinashe

This is a track that lets you feel the heat of summer with your whole body.

Released in July 2012, this song showcases a powerful performance by the legendary Queensbridge rapper, Nas.

The lyrics candidly trace his upbringing and the road to success, resonating deeply with listeners.

It’s included on the album Life Is Good, which drew major attention as his tenth studio album.

Perfect for beach or poolside parties, and just right as BGM for summer night drives.

A particularly recommended track for hip-hop fans.

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[2025] A roundup of classic Western hits and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (11–20)

SunscreenLIZ, SOPHIE

LIZ, SOPHIE – Sunscreen

SunscreenLIZ, SOPHIE

Singer Liz, who’s known for her distinctive Y2K pop, and the late SOPHIE, the groundbreaking producer who reshaped 2010s pop music—this long-rumored collaboration between two geniuses is finally seeing an official release in August 2025.

The track is a sun-drenched, sparkling, euphoric summer pop anthem.

Liz’s cute, vivid vocals bring to life the sweetly bittersweet lyrics, as if sealing away a shimmering moment on a summer beach forever.

Created in 2018 and completed by SOPHIE’s older brother and others, the song’s moving backstory only adds to its impact.

It’s guaranteed to supercharge your summer drives and parties.

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Goodbye (Warm Up) ft. AsakeAyra Starr

Ayra Starr – Goodbye (Warm Up) ft. Asake (Official Music Video)

Goodbye (Warm Up) ft. AsakeAyra Starr

Blending Afrobeats and pop to captivating effect, this piece is a summer classic themed around breakup and self-growth.

Ayra Starr’s powerful vocals and Asaka’s smooth singing harmonize beautifully, with catchy rhythms and a soulful melody that leave a strong impression.

Released in May 2024, the track is included on Ayra Starr’s album “The Year I Turned 21.” The music video also made waves, earning high praise from many fans for its stunning visuals.

It’s the perfect song for a late-summer drive or for anyone ready to take a new step forward.

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un x100toGrupo Frontera x Bad Bunny

Grupo Frontera x Bad Bunny – UN X100TO (Video Oficial)

un x100toGrupo Frontera x Bad Bunny

A masterpiece by Grupo Frontera and Bad Bunny that evokes a sweet, bittersweet summer romance.

Released in April 2023, this track captivates listeners worldwide with its innovative fusion of traditional Mexican music and urban Latin sounds.

The lyrics, which sing of heartbreak and regret, are sure to stir up poignant summer memories.

Its lively accordion melody and powerful rhythm leave a strong impression, making it perfect for listening by the seaside or poolside on a hot August day.

A must-listen for anyone who’s experienced a summer fling or loves Latin music.

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Calm DownRema, Selena Gomez

Rema, Selena Gomez – Calm Down (Official Music Video)

Calm DownRema, Selena Gomez

As a song that colors the summer, its perfect fusion of Afrobeats and pop is striking.

This work, born from the collaboration between Rema and Selena Gomez, is characterized by its catchy melody and upbeat rhythm.

The lyrics, which depict a budding romance that starts with a meeting at a party, evoke the refreshing feel of a summer love.

Released in August 2022, the song topped the charts in several European countries.

It also sparked a huge global response, achieving 1 billion streams on Spotify.

It’s the perfect track for relaxing on the beach or enjoying a summer drive.

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