[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 (1–10)
JuicyThe Notorious B.I.G.
The rapper representing the East Coast, The Notorious B.I.G.
His life-or-death beef with 2Pac, the rapper representing the West Coast, is indispensable when talking about hip-hop history.
Even though it ended up leaving lingering bad blood between the East and West Coasts to this day, his music itself is highly acclaimed.
Among his works, the particularly popular track is Juicy.
Wrapped in an overall pop vibe, it’s put together in a very catchy way.
Break Ya NeckBusta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes, a rapper who debuted in 1996 and is still active today.
With roots in Jamaica, you can feel the fiery vibes of dancehall reggae in his flow.
One of his classic tracks is Break Ya Neck.
While the hot energy and distinctive production tend to grab attention, the real charm of this song is, above all, his high level of skill.
If you listen closely, you’ll notice the rap lines are extremely complex.
California Love2Pac ft. Dr. Dre
When it comes to songs that symbolize the West Coast, many people probably think of California Love.
Created by West Coast icons 2Pac and Dr.
Dre, this track was released in 1995 and received worldwide acclaim.
Naturally, it’s a highly polished piece that packs in all the best elements of West Coast rap.
If you want to dig deeper into West Coast hip-hop, be sure to check it out.
Nas Is LikeNas
Nas, a legendary rapper who rose from being recognized as a representative of New York to a representative of the entire hip-hop scene.
Though he’s 100% hardcore from head to toe, his novel-like, literary lyrics have given immense influence and hope to many rappers who followed.
When you listen to Nas Is Like, I think you’ll find common ground between Nas’s music and today’s drill music, which is characterized by hardcore lyrics.
They Reminisce Over YouPete Rock & CL Smooth
Pete Rock & CL Smooth, a hip-hop duo representing New York.
They emerged during the golden age of rap, and they also excel at jazz rap, effortlessly handling everything from classic, straight-ahead rap to more melodic styles.
Among their works, the renowned classic is “They Reminisce Over You.” The track, infused with a jazzy vibe, pairs perfectly with their laid-back yet tightly rhymed delivery, offering exceptional stability and groove.