With hard-hitting lyrics and an overwhelming flow, Hannya has left a deep mark on the Japanese rap scene.
His ability to transform the atmosphere with a single word—channeling anger, poignancy, and even humor—is truly one of a kind.
Here, we’ve carefully selected recommended tracks that will resonate whether you’re unsure where to start or want to dive deeper.
Experience the world of Hannya that becomes more addictive the more you listen!
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Carefully selected recommendations of Hannya’s songs—masterpieces that pierce the heart (1–10)
Not like back then.NEW!hannya
Hannya, a singular presence in Japan’s hip-hop scene.
This song is a masterpiece whose resolve to powerfully affirm the “now,” turning even past frustrations and stagnation into fuel, pierces the heart.
Riding a dramatic beat by CHIVA from BUZZER BEATS, it’s moving to hear his willingness to bare his weaknesses while still pushing forward.
It’s a track included on the album Grand Slam, released in July 2016.
The episode that it was written right after his fierce battles on the TV show Freestyle Dungeon is also well known.
The music video was released in advance and, as the core of the album, has inspired many listeners.
It’s a fight song you’ll want to hear precisely when you’re dissatisfied with the status quo or need to fire yourself up.
Hannya’s soul-stirring cry gives you the energy to face tomorrow.
A night like thisNEW!hannya
This track carries the weight of 20 years and embodies a resolve to live in the “now,” not in past glory.
Released as a single by Hannya in June 2024, it’s also included as the closing song on the 2025 album “Last Answer.” Rejecting the status of a legend and insisting on staying in the trenches, his gritty way of life resonates alongside a hard-hitting beat.
The flow of time felt in everyday moments and the experiences he’s built up are portrayed with raw honesty, sure to stir the listener’s heart.
On a quiet night, when you want to look back on the road you’ve traveled and draw strength for tomorrow, why not face yourself with this song as your companion?
I messed up.NEW!hannya
A classic track by Hannya that humorously portrays the kind of “irreversible mistake” anyone might make at least once.
The tense, dialogue-driven scene that begins with a police stop feels so vivid it’s like watching a short film.
The lyrics, which comically recount regret over getting carried away and a situation that can’t be undone, never fail to make you chuckle with each listen.
Included on the album “Negosogi,” released in February 2005, it has long remained a fan favorite since the early days.
In 2022, the official music video was released on YouTube, bringing it back into the spotlight.
It might make you sit up a little straighter if you play it while driving.
It’s a perfect song for when you want to laugh off those everyday “no way” moments.
Be sure to check it out.
Planetarium (feat. NORIKIYO)NEW!hannya
Even under an urban sky where no stars are visible when you look up at the night, this work carries a powerful message about believing in the light within yourself.
Released digitally in June 2023 and later included on the album “Shin Ohayō Nippon,” the track also drew attention for featuring long-time ally NORIKIYO.
Over a lyrical beat by NAOtheLAIZA, the lyrics—where past pain intersects with present resolve—set listeners’ hearts ablaze.
It was pressed on a 7-inch vinyl in December, becoming a fan favorite in physical form as well.
Depicting the resolve to make the chosen path the right one and the attitude of living with responsibility, it will gently yet firmly push those who are lost.
It’s a perfect song for quiet, solitary reflection at night.
Graduation (feat. Shuto)NEW!hannya
Rapper Hannya, who headlined a successful solo show at the Nippon Budokan and in recent years has carved out a unique presence as an actor, returns with a digital single released in February 2026 featuring guest artist Hiito, who is based in Okinawa.
The track is marked by a calm, piano-centered beat.
Its candid lyrics that lay bare past memories intertwine with Hiito’s emotionally rich vocals, quietly tightening the listener’s chest.
The unadorned episodes—bittersweet memories of youth and the struggles of younger days—seem to gently embrace the farewells and pains that everyone experiences.
It’s an emotional song that gives you the courage to carry your past and move forward at life’s turning points, such as graduations and new departures.
Take your time and let it sink in.
Even in a Downpour REMIX (feat. Benjazzy & MACCHO)NEW!hannya
Amid a cold, pouring rain, three rappers from different generations clash their distinct aesthetics in a mic relay.
Released in March 2021, this work is a remix and a sequel to the original version that dropped the month before.
Over a piano-laced track by NAOtheLAIZA, Hannya teams up with BAD HOP’s Benjazzy and OZROSAURUS’s MACCHO.
Coming right after Hannya’s departure from Showa Record and the launch of his new label, Yacchatta Enterprise, the track brims with extraordinary intensity.
The music video also picks up where the previous installment left off, creating a setup that’s enjoyable as a complete audio-visual experience.
When you feel like you’re about to buckle under a downpour of adversity, give it a listen—you’ll find the strength to hold your ground.
Family (feat. KOHH)NEW!hannya
Hannya, a craftsman who turns pain into words.
His songs are filled with lyrics that feel like they shave away at the soul, powerfully shaking the listener’s emotions.
One of his masterpieces is “Kazoku (feat.
KOHH).” With unadorned words, it captures complex feelings toward a father and the inescapable fate of “family.” KOHH’s guest verse also speaks earnestly about his own upbringing, and the contrast between the two hits you right in the heart.
Featured on the album “#Birthday,” released in July 2014, this track has long been cherished by fans.
If you struggle with your roots or carry emotions you can’t neatly sort out, it’s sure to resonate deeply.
It’s a tearjerker—have a handkerchief ready.
Be sure to check it out.