[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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[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP / Timeless Masterpieces (71–80)
TemptationJoey Bada$$
It may be a bit early to call this a classic, but it will likely become a song that’s passed down for years to come.
This track addresses anti-Black racism.
Although it was released in 2017 and is relatively new, the retro vibe of the music video is captivating.
Be sure to check out the lyrics, too.
Mixed PersonalitiesYNW Melly ft. Kanye West
A rising artist who, at just 19 years old at the time of release, achieved a collaboration with hip-hop heavyweight Kanye West.
In the past, he shot and killed YNW Juvy and YNW Sakchaser, members of his crew and longtime friends.
In interviews, he has confessed that he has multiple personalities within himself.
Old Town Road (Official Movie) ft. Billy Ray CyrusLil Nas X
The 2019 trend: crossovers with country.
Crossovers with hip-hop and R&B feel very fresh.
The country legend Billy Ray Cyrus is portrayed in the music video almost like cosplay.
The movie-style MV is highly compelling.
The punchy jokes you hear are cool, too.
Changes ft. Talent2Pac
A masterpiece has emerged that confronts American social issues head-on, incisively addressing crucial themes such as racism, poverty, and police brutality.
The searing social critique depicted by 2Pac serves as a mirror reflecting the realities of American society at the time, carrying a universal message that remains undimmed to this day.
Set to a striking piano riff sampled from Bruce Hornsby & The Range’s “The Way It Is,” it powerfully voices a desire for social change.
Released in October 1998, it reached No.
32 on the Billboard chart.
In 2000, it was also nominated for a Grammy, earning high acclaim as a landmark in hip-hop.
This is a recommended track for those who want to reflect on society through music and experience the essence of 1990s hip-hop.
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!