[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 (11–20)
Shook Ones, Pt. IIMobb Deep
Mobb Deep, the hip-hop crew repping Queens, New York.
With their heavy, low-end, and dope tracks that embody the stark atmosphere of hip-hop, their presence is undeniably crucial in the long and storied history of the genre.
One of their classic tracks is Shook Ones, Pt.
II.
This authentic East Coast rap carries a blazing vibe and message that still hit hard in today’s hip-hop scene, even as styles have evolved.
If you’re a head who hasn’t heard it yet, just give it a listen and prepare to be blown away.
ATliensOutKast
Outkast are a hip-hop crew from Atlanta, Georgia, who gained popularity with a sound rooted in funk and soul.
The raps crafted by the duo of the so-called genius André 3000 and Big Boi became beloved as a quintessential example of Southern hip-hop.
Among their works, the one I especially recommend is ATLiens.
It’s a classic distinguished by its stylish, analog-inflected production and skillful flows.
Be sure to check it out.
Overnight CelebrityTwista
In today’s hip-hop scene, trap music is the trend, and skills like flow and rhyming sometimes get neglected.
In the 2000s, it was the opposite, with many highly skilled rappers led by Eminem.
Among the most famous is Twista, who performs “Overnight Celebrity.” This track is one of his signature works and showcases incredibly fast rap.
If you’re looking for skillful rap, this is a must-check.
It Was A Good DayIce Cube
Compton, a city located in Southern California, is notorious as a very high-crime area.
Ice Cube is a central figure of N.W.A, the legendary hip-hop group that represents Compton, and he is now also active as an actor and film director.
One of his signature tracks is It Was a Good Day.
The lyrics—saying it was a good day because nobody died around him—reflect the situation in Compton at the time.
Though the subject matter is serious, it’s a classic distinguished by its mellow, comfortable, funk-tinged beat and vibe, paired with a passionate rap performance.
Thugz CryBizzy Bone
Bone Thugs-N-Harmony is a group that gained popularity with their melodic rap style.
Bizzy Bone, who performs this track “Thugz Cry,” is known as one of the most skillful members.
As a child, he was abducted and grew up for a long time believing the criminal who kidnapped him was his parent.
This song reflects his thug life, and its lyrics leave a powerful impact.
It’s an exceptionally skillful piece, so I especially recommend it to listeners who prioritize flow.