[2025] Songs You’ll Want to Listen to This Summer! Popular and Recommended Classic Rock Tracks from the West

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!
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerWakachan Araki
I started playing guitar in middle school and focused on band activities during my student years. I’ve been a hobbyist Vocaloid producer for over 15 years. After entering the workforce, I gained experience in various roles, including event sound engineering and videography/photography. As a writer, I’ve contributed introduction articles for music and manga websites, and in 2022 I had the opportunity to write the bonus liner notes for IA SUPER BEST. My specialties are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

Spring, summer, autumn, winter—many music lovers keep playlists of songs they want to listen to when each season comes around.

In this article, under the theme “Rock Songs to Listen to in Summer,” we’ve compiled recommended summer tracks spanning the 1960s to the 2020s—from recent hits and fan favorites to timeless classics.

Of course, “rock” covers a wide range of styles, so you’re sure to find summer songs you’ll love.

Be sure to check it out and enjoy it as your soundtrack for this summer!

[2025] Songs You’ll Want to Hear This Summer! Popular and Recommended Classics of Western Rock (41–50)

Lover, LeaverGreta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet – Lover, Leaver (Audio)

Lover, LeaverGreta Van Fleet

Greta Van Fleet is an American rock band known for its hard sound reminiscent of Led Zeppelin in the 1970s.

Formed in 2012 by the three Kiszka brothers—Josh, Jake, and Sam—they grew up listening to their parents’ records and were influenced by hard rock, blues, and progressive rock.

The brothers create a classic sound that feels anything but post-2000.

Their passion is on full display in Lover, Leaver as well.

Highly recommended for those who enjoy rich, heavy hard rock that can make the sweltering heat of summer feel even hotter!

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F.E.A.R.Ian Brown

Ian Brown – F.E.A.R. (Official Video)

F.E.A.R.Ian Brown

This track captivates with a refreshing sound that evokes the summer breeze and lyrics rich with meaning.

Included on Ian Brown’s album “Music of the Spheres,” released in August 2001, it achieved success on the UK charts.

Its distinctive lyrical structure has each phrase begin with the letters F.

E.

A.

R.

, and its depth allows for multiple interpretations, from self-exploration to questioning society.

Blending rock, indie, and electronic elements, it’s perfect for a summer drive or relaxing by the seaside.

Along with its soothing melody, it’s a recommended song for those who want to reflect on themselves and the world around them.

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I Got YouJack Johnson

Jack Johnson – I Got You (Official Video)

I Got YouJack Johnson

With its refreshing guitar tones and warm vocals, this song feels wonderfully comfortable and brims with a summery vibe.

Released in June 2013, Jack Johnson’s single features memorable lyrics that express deep affection for a loved one.

As the lead single from the album “From Here to Now to You,” it drew significant attention and reached No.

88 on the Billboard Hot 100.

It’s perfect for a relaxing time at the beach or for sharing calm moments with someone special.

Wrapped in Jack Johnson’s gentle voice, why not enjoy it as background music to color your summer memories?

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Good as YouKane Brown

Kane Brown – Good as You (Official Video)

Good as YouKane Brown

This is the song “Good As You” by American country singer Kane Brown.

It’s included on his 2018 album Experiment.

His relaxed vocals are soothing, and the simple arrangement gives you a warm, cozy feeling.

The straightforward lyrics make it a heart-fluttering love song.

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White SummerLed Zeppelin

White Summer (10/8/69 Playhouse Theatre) (Remaster)

White SummerLed Zeppelin

A classic by Led Zeppelin, with an ear-pleasing melody that evokes the summer sun.

Though instrumental, Jimmy Page’s guitar weaves an Oriental-tinged tone that creates an exotic atmosphere.

Included on the Led Zeppelin Boxed Set released in September 1990 and later featured in multiple box sets, this track stands as an important example of the band’s musical range.

Recorded in London on June 27, 1969, it’s a perfect summertime piece that makes you feel as if you’re relaxing at a seaside café—highly recommended for those who want to enjoy rock with a refreshing vibe.

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One Kiss Don’t Make A SummerLucky Soul

One Kiss Don’t Make A Summer

One Kiss Don't Make A SummerLucky Soul

Lucky Soul is a British rock band that also enjoys great popularity in Japan, where they’ve even toured.

When it comes to their summer songs, “One Kiss Don’t Make A Summer” is the standout.

It’s a pop-rock track, and vocalist Ali Howard’s clear, crystalline voice adds a refreshing feel.

The lyrics brim with seasonal atmosphere, portraying a summer romance and the frustration of not closing the distance with someone you’ve just started getting to know.

Give it a listen while imagining that tantalizingly close yet elusive relationship.

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Indian SummerManic Street Preachers

Manic Street Preachers – Indian Summer (Official Video)

Indian SummerManic Street Preachers

It’s a perfect song for the end of summer, blending a slightly wistful mood with an energetic sound.

Included on the 2007 album “Send Away the Tigers,” it reached number 22 on the UK Singles Chart.

James Dean Bradfield’s powerful vocals and sharp, edgy guitar riffs leave a strong impression and carve themselves deeply into the listener’s heart.

The lyrics, themed around self-discovery and the loss of truth, evoke a sense of melancholy even amid summer’s brightness, resonating deeply with those who listen.

Whether you’re on a drive or relaxing by the seaside, playing this track might make your summer memories even more vivid.

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