[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.
- A roundup of 90s Western hip-hop: classics from the golden era
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- [Western Music] A landmark masterpiece in hip-hop history! A fundamental album you should know
- [Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Tracks of Japanese Rap
- A Guide to Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics
- [2026] A Compilation of Classic and Popular Tracks for Hip-Hop Beginners
- Stylish hip-hop! A roundup of classic albums in Western jazzy hip-hop
- [Latest] Western Hip-Hop Trends [2026]
- Hip-hop classics that changed history
- Japanese Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]
- From Pop to Hip-Hop: Nostalgic Rap Recommendations for People in Their 30s
- Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2026]
- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP and Timeless Masterpieces (101–110)
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.
Go FlexPost Malone
It starts with Post Malone’s acoustic guitar.
His sweet voice, unexpected from his appearance, will captivate you after just one listen.
It might be a bit early to call it a classic, but it’s bound to blow up, so keep an eye on it.
Guess Who’s BackScarface (Feat. Jay-Z, Beanie Sigel)
It’s a mellow track with a sparkling, reggae-like groove that feels great—very easy to listen to.
Released in 2002, it’s a relatively old song and definitely a classic.
Amazingly, Kanye West was involved in the composition, which shows the proven credibility of his top-tier talent even back then.
Scarface, a member of the legendary group Geto Boys, collaborated here with Jay-Z and Beanie Sigel, who was also drawing attention for his acting!
Dear Mama2Pac
At the time, the hip-hop scene was in the midst of the East Coast–West Coast feud, and in that climate, he was killed.
This is a single cut from his 1995 release, Me Against The World.
The track Dear Mama is known for its distinctive loop sampling Joe Sample’s In All My Wildest Dreams, and it’s a beloved classic among fans for its comforting vibe.
Work ItMissy Elliott
She could be called the pinnacle of female rappers.
Every track is high-quality and seriously cool.
Of course I recommend the songs themselves, but I also want you to pay attention to the music videos.
The dance, the outfits—everything makes for compelling MVs that really convey the culture of the time.