[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Tracks of Japanese Rap
Thanks to the freestyle boom of the 2010s, Japanese rap has come back into the spotlight.
As US rap has become more accessible to the general public via the internet, HIPHOP’s popularity has been growing in Japan as well.
This time, we’ve curated a selection of classic Japanese rap tracks!
We’ve picked gems from old-school eras like the 1990s and 2000s, as well as standout hits from talented up-and-coming rappers leading today’s scene.
Whether you love classic rap or today’s trap, there’s something here for you—so be sure to read to the end!
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[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (71–80)
My lifeZORN
This is one of ZORN’s signature tracks that resonates through its realistic portrayal of everyday life.
Released in 2015, it features a calm piano track by DJ OKAWARI, over which ZORN delivers down-to-earth verses about daily living.
The authenticity of his day-to-day—work at construction sites, warm moments with family, and his pride as an artist—strikes a chord.
Included on the album “The Downtown,” the song also led to a live performance at Nippon Budokan in January 2021.
Capturing the journey from construction worker to successful rapper, this piece is perfect for anyone who wants an accessible taste of hip-hop’s appeal.
With its melodic sound that gently connects with listeners, it might just inspire you to try rapping yourself.
Higher (dir. Spikey John)Mall Boyz (Tohji, gummyboy)
A young rapper with a background of being born in London and raised in Yokohama, whose free-spirited artistry, unbound by anyone, captivates fans.
They went viral with tracks uploaded to SoundCloud, gaining attention especially among younger audiences and steadily raising their profile.
In 2019, they achieved a collaboration with OKAMOTO’S, further boosting expectations for what’s to come.
doppelgängerCreepy Nuts
This is a song by Creepy Nuts written as the theme for the film Under Ninja.
It was released digitally in January 2025 and is included on the album LEGION, which came out in March.
It features an intoxicating beat crafted by DJ Matsunaga and multilayered rapping by R-Shitei, with lyrics centered on the theme of one’s inner multiplicity.
It’s a must-listen for anyone in the midst of self-discovery or feeling out of place in modern society.
Theme SongSUMMIT
A theme song from SUMMIT, a label you can confidently buy from thanks to its reliable roster including PUNPEE, SIMI LAB, and C.O.S.A.
Produced by OMSB—SIMI LAB’s rapper and trackmaker—the result is a truly gritty, mature track.
Be sure to check out the artists on SUMMIT!
voiceZORN
This song was written for a late old friend and is characterized by a bittersweet, emotional atmosphere infused with ZORN’s down-to-earth message.
It was digitally released on April 20, 2024, and the music video was directed by filmmaker Kento Yamada.
With visuals such as footage shot on Polaroid film, it boasts a high level of production quality.
The lyrics recall memories with the deceased and express hope for a reunion, making it feel very relatable.
Even if you don’t usually listen to hip-hop, I highly recommend giving this track a listen.
Chain ReactionMURO
Released in 2003, this is MURO’s eighth single.
Known as the MC of MICROPHONE PAGER, MURO teamed up with MCs from other units on this track.
It’s a song that values words and rhyme, embodying MURO’s signature style.
This one is also notoriously tough for karaoke, and it showcases the high caliber of J Hip Hop at the time.
Additionally, the track’s production has been highly praised, which is a key reason for its popularity.
That’s right, isn’t it?EAST END + YURI
A single that helped bring Japanese hip-hop into the mainstream.
Even if you don’t know the song, you’ve probably heard the phrase “dayonee” (“right, right”).
It spread after a Hokkaido radio station put it on heavy rotation, becoming the first million-selling hip-hop CD by Japanese artists.
It was released in 1994, but it still sounds fresh today.
The lyrics were written by GAKU-MC—also known for his work with Ukasuka-G—and Mummy-D of RHYMESTER, and dialect versions like “SO.YA.NA” also caught on across different regions.
The laid-back vibe and call-and-response are just unbeatable.
