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 (41–50)

Jump (Armin van Buuren Remix)Van Halen

Van Halen – Jump (Armin van Buuren Remix) [Official Audio]

Jump (Armin van Buuren Remix)Van Halen

Armin Van Buuren, a DJ who represents the Dutch trance music scene, has remixed a classic by Van Halen.

The original song is Jump, included on Van Halen’s 1984 album released in 1984.

Many of you have probably heard its famous synthesizer riff.

The remix version carries a different kind of energy from the original, and it feels like something that could pep you up if you listen to it in the morning!

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[2025] A roundup of classic Western songs and popular summer anthems to listen to in August (51–60)

Summer GirlHaim

HAIM – Summer Girl

Summer GirlHaim

Precisely because it’s a hot summer, why not soothe yourself with a breezy track? Let me introduce Haim’s “Summer Girl.” It’s a song with a jazzy melody and humming woven in, giving it an elegant feel.

Meanwhile, the lyrics portray a summer crush.

The depiction is only lightly tinged with romance, so it never gets too melancholic.

Also, be sure to pay attention to Danielle Haim’s high, airy vocals.

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augustTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – august (Official Lyric Video)

augustTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift, who is widely loved in Japan as well, is not to be missed—especially her song “august.” As the title suggests, it’s about August.

But rather than the first half of the month, it evokes the late-summer atmosphere, singing about a romance that comes to an end along with the season.

Why not listen to it when you’re spending a quiet, reflective moment alone? It’s also perfect for looking back on your summer memories.

In any case, her gentle voice is soothing.

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MagicThe Cars

The Cars – Magic (Official Music Video)

MagicThe Cars

Let me introduce Magic, a song that evokes the start of summer.

It’s a track from The Cars’ album Heartbeat City.

With its upbeat sound and lyrics about the arrival of summer and a hint of romance, it’s perfect both for relaxing and for getting yourself pumped up.

Incidentally, the song is also well-loved for its music video, which unfolds a mysterious story.

Watching it will help you feel the season even more.

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Let’s Go SurfingThe Drums

The Drums – Lets Go Surfing

Let's Go SurfingThe Drums

The Drums made their debut in 2009.

One of the tracks on their debut EP is “Let’s Go Surfing.” The title literally means “Let’s go surfing.” The song captures the excitement and happiness you feel before heading out to surf.

It’s guaranteed to boost your motivation to go out.

It also samples whistling and handclaps, making it a great tune to get lively and have fun with while you listen.

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SummerThingAfrojack

AFROJACK – SummerThing! ft. Mike Taylor

SummerThingAfrojack

This is a song called “SummerThing!” released in 2015 by the Dutch DJ Afrojack.

He collaborated with American singer-songwriter Mike Tayler.

The bright, crisp guitar tone is perfect for summer, and Afrojack’s signature heavy bass-driven arrangement is fantastic.

Mike Tayler’s powerful vocals also feel like they’ll amp up the summer vibe.

It’s the perfect track for a party.

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ROXANNEArizona Zervas

Arizona Zervas – ROXANNE (Official Video)

ROXANNEArizona Zervas

Rooted in a modern, pop-leaning rap style, the heavily vocoder-tuned sound feels so catchy you’ll find yourself humming it after just one listen.

Released in 2019 by Arizona Zervas, the track became a massive hit not only in the U.

S.

but around the world.

The rapper and singer-songwriter from Maryland broke into the spotlight with this song.

It’s a sound that feels great as summer hits in full swing, but once you read the lyrics—laying bare the complexities of a man’s heart—you might be left with a bittersweet, restless feeling.

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