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Classic and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in June

For many Japanese people, June is the rainy season with lots of rain and no public holidays—so aside from things like the “June bride,” the month might carry a slightly negative impression.

Looking abroad, though, in places like Europe June often brings mild weather and a comfortable time of year.

So this time, under the theme “Western songs to listen to in June,” we’re picking out tracks across genres that are directly about June or feature June as a keyword in the lyrics!

While sensing the different images of June in Japan and overseas, we’ve also selected songs that can lift your spirits even through day after day of rain—so don’t miss it!

Masterpieces and Popular Western Songs to Listen to in June (61–70)

Memphis in JuneNina Simone

A relaxed, sweet jazz tune.

This track by legendary jazz singer Nina Simmons carries a smooth, heartfelt mood that goes beyond the bounds of jazz, evoking elements of gospel, R&B, and more.

Her husky yet silky voice, backed by remarkable vocal prowess, overflows with expressive richness.

The mellow atmosphere is so soothing you might just drift off to sleep before you know it.

JunePip Millett

This song by Manchester-born singer-songwriter Pip Millett is included on her 2020 EP, Lost In June.

The lyrics, which reminisce about beautiful memories from the past, evoke recollections of special people that come to mind during the rainy June season.

Set to a relaxed tempo, her soulful vocals feel comforting and gently envelop the listener.

It’s a track that can lift your spirits on a rainy day as you hold gratitude for those who support you.

It’s a masterpiece that I especially hope people at their lowest will listen to.

JuneRJD2

Among those who have closely followed the underground club music scene since the 2000s, he is a well-known beatmaker and producer.

Every release of his on Definitive Jux—a label essential to any discussion of underground hip-hop—has been highly acclaimed.

On his landmark 2001 debut album, Deadringer, there’s a track titled exactly as such: JUNE.

It was also his debut track, a pivotal song that announced his talent to the world.

Beyond the innovative, melancholic production, the guest rapper’s lyrics—reflecting on June as both his birth month and the month he lost his father—add a poignant layer, resulting in a profoundly beautiful and deeply resonant piece.

Rainy Night In GeorgiaRandy Crawford

Randy Crawford – Rainy Night In Georgia
Rainy Night In GeorgiaRandy Crawford

This is a cover version of a song produced by Tony Joe White in 1967.

Randy Crawford, an American jazz and R&B singer, achieved success in the United Kingdom and, despite being American, won Best British Female Solo Artist at the 1982 Brit Awards.

I Think It’s Going To Rain TodayRandy Newman

Randy Newman – I Think It’s Going To Rain Today
I Think It's Going To Rain TodayRandy Newman

This is a song from the 1968 debut album by American singer-songwriter Randy Newman, who has been active since 1961.

Among his works, it is one of the most frequently covered songs by other artists, including UB40.

Words I Couldn’t SayRascal Flatts

Rascal Flatts are a popular trio in the country music world.

In their home country of the United States, they enjoy enduring popularity, and every release they put out becomes a hit.

They’ve created many great songs that transcend the boundaries of country music.

The track introduced here is a classic that captures their signature blend of poignancy and warmth.

It was included on their 2006 album “Me and My Gang,” and later enjoyed a revival hit after being featured in the popular drama “Country Strong.” As the title suggests, the lyrics are about regret.

The word “June” also appears, and on a long, rainy day that just won’t let up, it might be nice to listen to this song and reflect on the words you couldn’t say back then.

COME RAIN OR COME SHINERay Charles

RAY CHARLES — COME RAIN OR COME SHINE — (WITH LYRICS)
COME RAIN OR COME SHINERay Charles

Recorded in 1946, this song features music by Harold Arlen and lyrics by Johnny Mercer.

Although it didn’t make much impact on the charts at the time, it later became a standard and has been covered by numerous artists, including Frank Sinatra, James Brown, and Eric Clapton.