[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
Hip-hop hadn’t been very popular in Japan for a long time, but it’s recently started getting attention, thanks in part to the spread of MC battles.
That said, even if people know recent tracks, many might not be familiar with the older ones.
So this time, we’ve picked out some classic hip-hop tracks recommended for those listeners.
We’ve mainly chosen songs from the 1980s to the 2000s, so you can also get a sense of hip-hop’s history.
Please take your time and enjoy.
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- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / All-Time Great Tracks (91–100)
ThotianaBlueface
This is a popular song by Blueface, released in 2018.
Blueface suddenly appeared with his 2017 debut, and his unique rap style and vocal tone quickly hooked listeners, propelling him to become a breakout rapper.
This track in particular has become a club hit.
He was 22 at the time of release—a young, talented rapper with a promising future ahead!
Around My WayLupe Fiasco
Speaking of this intro, it has to be this song, right? It’s such a classic that I doubt anyone doesn’t know it.
No explanation needed—the more you listen, the more you want to keep listening.
It’s a timeless track in the hip-hop world.
The glowing eyes in the music video are intriguing, too.
[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP and Timeless Masterpieces (101–110)
Keep Ya Head Up2Pac
Tupac, who continues to exert a tremendous influence on the hip-hop world.
Released in October 1993, this song is a warm anthem that reveals his socially conscious side and a profound love for humanity.
Included on the classic album “Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z.…,” it layers a soulful track with gentle R&B vocals, wrapping listeners in a calm embrace.
It portrays a powerful message of encouragement and deep respect for women living through difficult circumstances.
It can also be taken as a song about friendship that transcends gender, or mutual support between people.
It was used in a symbolic scene in the 2017 biopic “All Eyez on Me,” which depicts his life.
It’s the kind of track that quietly gives a nudge forward when a dear friend is feeling down.
03′ Bonnie & Clyde (feat. Beyoncé Knowles)JAY-Z, Beyoncé
In today’s popular music scene, Jay-Z and Beyoncé could be called the ultimate power couple.
Released in 2002 as the lead single from Jay-Z’s album “The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse,” ’03 Bonnie & Clyde is a duet the two recorded before they were married.
As the title suggests, the song is themed around Bonnie and Clyde, drawing inspiration from 2Pac’s “Me and My Girlfriend.” Jay-Z’s cool rap and Beyoncé’s languid, sultry vocals intertwine perfectly, making it an undisputed classic that even lets you feel their chemistry.
Be sure to check out the music video as well, which depicts the pair on the run in keeping with the song’s theme!
Empire State of MindJay Z
The king of the hip-hop world—calling him that wouldn’t be an exaggeration—is Jay-Z.
Since stepping into the spotlight in the ’90s, he has reigned at the top of the music industry.
His achievements are widely recognized; at the UK’s storied rock festival Glastonbury, he became the first hip-hop artist ever to headline.
By the way, his wife is none other than Beyoncé.
Runaway ft. Pusha TKanye West
Controversial or not, Kanye West is undeniably a genius whose name will remain in music history.
He first made his mark as a producer, but since his solo debut he has been a constant presence in the spotlight.
While his words and actions sometimes draw heavy criticism, his musical sensibility is unquestionably genuine.
Rock, techno, electronica, gospel, soul—his ability to absorb it all and forge a radical sonic world is unmatched.
Runaway was so grand in scale that it was even turned into a film.
Doo-Wop (That Thing)Lauryn Hill
A living legend among female rappers who continues to thrive and is edging into veteran territory—that’s Lauryn Hill.
She debuted with the hip-hop group The Fugees, and after going solo she continued to release a string of hits.
Strongly influenced by classic soul music, her sound was said to be popular not only with young hip-hop fans but also with older listeners, which is rare in the genre.