[2025] Recommended popular melancholic summer classics in Western music

New FriendsPinegrove

Pinegrove – “New Friends” (Official Audio)

I’d like to introduce “New Friends” as a song that portrays the end of summer from a slightly unusual perspective.

It’s a track by the rock band Pinegrove.

The story follows a man who comforts a friend after a breakup at summer’s end.

The poignant exchanges between the man and his friend are a must-hear.

Because it’s told strictly from an outsider’s viewpoint, much is left unsaid, which invites the listener’s imagination—another part of its appeal.

Alternatively, you can listen while empathizing with the friend who’s being comforted.

Be My SummerSnoh Aalegra

Snoh Aalegra – Be My Summer (Lyric Video)

Some of you might be looking for songs perfect for relaxing in the summer.

In that case, I’d like to introduce “Be My Summer.” It’s a track released by Swedish singer-songwriter Snoh Aalegra.

She’s been drawing worldwide attention for her powerful vocals and distinctive style.

In this song, she likens summer rain to sadness while singing about the love between parent and child.

Be sure to pay attention to the melody, which evokes the sound of falling rain.

The Boys of Summer (Don Henley Cover)The Ataris

The Ataris – The Boys of Summer

The end of summer and the last day of summer vacation can make you feel a little lonely, right? That’s when I want you to listen to “The Boys of Summer.” This version is by The Ataris, and it sings about the emptiness that follows after summer is gone.

You might expect a mellow ballad from that description, but it actually has a fast, driving sound.

It’s the kind of track that can lift your spirits when you listen to it.

By the way, this song is a cover of Don Henley’s original.

It’s a good idea to listen to both.

Eternal SummerThe Strokes

The Strokes – Eternal Summer (Official Audio)

The Strokes are a rock band that enjoys great popularity in Japan.

They have a summer-themed song called “Eternal Summer.” It’s a piece set just before summer begins.

The changing season hints at changes in the couple’s relationship.

The distorted guitar sound also creates an unsettling mood.

However, the latter half features powerful phrases that sound like self-encouragement, making it perfect for when you want to lift your spirits.

True Blueboygenius

boygenius – True Blue (official music video)

True Blue is a great fit for late summer or twilight.

It’s a track by boygenius from their album The Record.

The song depicts a man and woman visiting the seaside at dusk.

Beyond its beautiful imagery, it also weaves in words that hint at an impending breakup—something to pay attention to.

It’s also said that this song’s world connects with other tracks on the album.

Be sure to listen all the way through.

Circle InThe SandBelinda Carlisle

Belinda Carlisle – Circle In The Sand (Official HD Music Video)

Belinda Carlisle is a singer from the United States.

Before going solo, she was a central figure in the Go-Go’s, a girls’ band that achieved great popularity.

She had a huge hit with “Heaven Is a Place on Earth” (1987).

“Circle in the Sand” was released as a single in 1988.

It’s a heart-wrenchingly bittersweet song in which she keeps telling a lover who’s drifting away, “We’re forever, right?”

ChamakayBlood Orange

Blood Orange – Chamakay (Official Video)

Dev Hynes is a British singer-songwriter, and the perfect summer track from him would be “Chamakay.” It’s a song that expresses the loneliness of a heartbroken man and his longing for a woman.

The sound blends Latin and folk elements, creating a summery atmosphere.

Caroline Polachek’s featured backing vocals add a soothing touch that calms you as you listen.

As an aside, the music video is moving, capturing the moment Hynes meets his grandfather for the first time.