[2025] Recommended popular melancholic summer classics in Western music

Feels Like SummerChildish Gambino

Childish Gambino – Feels Like Summer

A track by Childish Gambino notable for its gentle vibe and bittersweet lyrics.

It’s included on the EP “Summer Pack,” released in July 2018, and features a laid-back R&B sound.

At first glance it seems to depict a calm summer day, but it actually carries a warning about environmental and social issues.

The animated music video also drew attention.

It’s a song that evokes a mature sense of melancholy—perfect for late summer.

I recommend listening at dusk, with the sun going down and the window open to let in a cool breeze.

Where The Boys AreConnie Francis

Connie Francis / Where the Boys Are — Boy Hunt / Connie Francis

Connie Francis, an American singer known for hits like “Vacation.” The Japanese-titled song “Boy Hunt” was used as the theme song for the 1961 film of the same name.

Its story is a love romance set on a midsummer beach.

The wistful song evokes the end of summer and the end of love.

Desert MoonDennis DeYoung

Dennis DeYoung – Desert Moon

Dennis DeYoung is the former lead vocalist of the band Styx, which had hits in the 1980s such as “Babe” and “Mr.

Roboto.

” “Desert Moon” is a song he released in 1984 after going solo.

The title “Desert Moon” refers to a special place from his innocent childhood.

The Boys Of SummerDon Henley

The Boys Of Summer

Don Henley is a former member of the Eagles, where he played drums and guitar.

In 1982, he released his first solo album, “I Can’t Stand Still.” In 1984, he released the single “The Boys of Summer,” which became a major hit.

The song paints a picture of a town at the end of summer, when people have vanished from the roads and the beach.

All that remains are memories of love and a lingering sadness—making it a perfect piece for late summer.

SummerGood Kid

Good Kid – Summer (Official Video)

This is a gem of a track released in March 2024 by the Toronto-based indie rock band Good Kid.

Beneath its seemingly light and catchy melody lies a mysterious charm that evokes bittersweet summer memories.

The protagonist’s determination to find hope despite facing hardship is striking, and it conjures the melancholy of summer’s end.

The song appears on the band’s fourth EP and has received high acclaim within the Canadian music scene.

It’s a perfect pick for twilight drives or moments when you want to look back on summer memories.

Its heartfelt melody and lyrics will color the inner landscape of your summer.

You’re Only LonelyJ.D. Souther

J.D. Souther – You’re Only Lonely (Official Audio)

J.

D.

Souther’s real name is John David Souther.

An American singer-songwriter, he is a highly accomplished artist who has written songs for Linda Ronstadt and the Eagles.

“You’re Only Lonely,” often cited as a classic AOR track, is a 1979 song from the period when he achieved his greatest success as a vocalist.

SummerJaden

Jaden – Summer

When it comes to bittersweet summer classics, you can’t leave out this track by Jaden.

Its dreamy sound and blend of pop and rap create a uniquely captivating world.

While it captures a relaxed summer vibe, the lyrics—depicting youthful passion and a sense of freedom—leave a strong impression.

The song was added to the expanded edition of his third album, “CTV3: Cool Tape Vol.

3,” and was released in 2021.

It’s perfect for sunset drives or chilled moments with friends.

Highly recommended for anyone who wants to feel the poignancy of summer.