[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 (81–90)
Dreaming City feat. HIYADAMYo-Sea
This is a track released by Yo-Sea, a singer and rapper from Okinawa known for his distinctive soprano voice, featuring the Korean rapper HIYADAM.
It drew attention in 2018.
The sound is excellent and has been highly praised musically, raising expectations for his future success.
His voice is truly beautiful—husky, moody, and androgynous with a feminine quality.
He seems like he could thrive in R&B and related genres as well!
FEEL OR BEEF BADPOP IS DEADNectar
Released exclusively via digital distribution on December 1, 2023, this track sent shockwaves through Japan’s hip-hop scene.
It plays like a gauntlet thrown down by Namatadora toward BAD HOP, marked by aggressive lyrics and a heavy, hard-hitting beat.
It shot to No.
1 on YouTube’s trending rankings and climbed high on various music charts, generating a major response.
It’s a must-listen not only for hip-hop fans but also for anyone interested in today’s music scene.
Gear 5 feat. ACE COOL & Ralph（Prod. FOUX）OZworld
The music released by OZworld, a hip-hop artist from Okinawa, is characterized by a unique worldview and a shape-shifting flow.
This track, featuring ACE COOL and Ralph, carries a powerful message centered on self-growth and adventure.
Released in September 2023, it also includes elements inspired by One Piece’s “Gear 5,” stirring listeners’ sense of adventure.
While evoking the breeze of Okinawa, the song also embraces trends from the modern hip-hop scene, resonating with a wide range of listeners across genres.
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.
ONE SHOT feat. Watson, Eric.B.JrAK-69
From the streets to the world, AK-69 captivates countless listeners with his musicality.
In this track, he takes on a new challenge by featuring up-and-coming rappers Watson and Eric.B.Jr.
The lyrics carry a powerful message about seizing your one chance with everything you’ve got—sure to ignite the hearts of listeners.
Released on April 19, 2024, the song is also featured as an insert track on Chukyo TV’s extreme sports program “MAKE IT!”.
Blending a driving beat with hard-hitting rap, this piece is perfect for moments when you need the courage to face adversity or are about to take a new step forward.
It’s a track packed with AK-69’s determination and passion.
Change My LifeIn Man
Inman, a rising young talent, reportedly started rapping in order to rhyme, and has been active on the MC battle scene since the late 2010s.
He didn’t seem interested in being a recording artist at first, but as his career progressed, he became more intrigued, and on Freestyle Dungeon in 2020 he announced that he would release music.
The long-awaited release is this track, “Change My Life.” It’s highly regarded overseas, and the YouTube comment section is filled mostly with comments in English.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Songs (91–100)
Last Party Never End (feat. Tiji Jojo, YZERR, Yellow Pato & Vingo)BAD HOP
A track from BAD HOP, the group leading Japan’s hip-hop scene, taken from their new release in February 2024.
Over a party-infused beat, the members’ interwoven lyrics leave a strong impression.
The song celebrates breaking free from everyday life and cherishing special moments with friends, resonating deeply.
It’s included on BAD HOP’s first album in about three years, BAD HOP WORLD, and stands out among its 16 tracks.
This release is perfect for those worn out by daily routines or anyone who wants to enjoy time with their crew.
The more you listen, the more it will set your heart free.