[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 Songs (91–100)
ARIGATTOm-flo loves RIP SLYME
m-flo, known for their diverse “Loves” collaborations, teams up with RIP SLYME, the beloved purveyors of pop-leaning hip-hop.
This long-awaited joint effort from two groups who’ve led the scene is a gratitude anthem themed around friendship and a heartfelt “thank you” to their fans.
The lyrics look back to 1994 and 1998, when their respective journeys began—moments that will likely resonate deeply with longtime listeners.
Over a bright, positive horn arrangement crafted by m-flo, the members of RIP SLYME deliver a tightly synchronized mic relay.
It’s a warm, feel-good pop tune that lets you fully enjoy the chemistry between the two acts.
WAVEBODY (Remix)JP THE WAVY
Featuring a stellar lineup including JP THE WAVY, this track is a guaranteed mood-lifter for the summer.
In the music video, child actors evoking the rappers’ younger selves appear, and the 2000s-inspired visuals add a nostalgic touch that brings back warm memories.
It’s a song you can’t look away from, with powerful bonds among friends and a performance full of confidence.
The MV was released in October 2021, and the track is included on the album “WAVY TAPE 2 (Deluxe)” from the same year.
It drew attention at the time, topping LINE MUSIC’s real-time video chart, among other achievements.
It also saw heavy play in the club scene, including appearances on Red Bull RASEN.
Put it on for summer drives or when you’re hanging out with friends and want to hype things up—you’re guaranteed an even bigger boost.
Let the powerful, deep bass beat take over and enjoy it as the perfect summer BGM!
10000ftID
ID is a rapper boasting overwhelming talent in the history of Japanese hip-hop.
On the hugely popular show Freestyle Dungeon, he became a third-generation Monster and maintained a high win rate.
Even at the freestyle stage, his flow sounds like a recorded track, but his “10000ft” takes a different approach from freestyling, delivering a cool and subdued rap.
Japanese rap arranged with a house vibe is rare, so if you’re curious, be sure to check it out!
Train Train TrainNORIKIYO
This is a track by the rapper NORIKIYO, whose presence has grown in recent years.
It showcases his hallmark realistic word choice and sharp perspective on society.
Though the tempo is relaxed and the mood is smooth, the powerful beat makes for a striking track with a mellow, stylish vibe.
Released in September 2024 and produced by BACHLOGIC, this piece resonates especially when you’re at a crossroads in life or reexamining your path.
LAST ORGYTINY PANX
A two-man unit formed in the mid-1980s, when Japanese hip-hop was taking shape, consisting of Hiroshi Fujiwara, who was active as a club DJ, and Kan Takagi, who was the vocalist of Tokyo Bravo.
They debuted with the album “Kensetsuteki,” which they produced together with Seiko Ito, and later became legendary.
Although their body of work is not extensive, they are regarded as pioneers and are still talked about today for the tremendous influence they had on the subsequent scene.
Listening to their sound from that time, you can tell that the foundations of hip-hop were already largely complete.
opium feat. Jin DoggSweet William × Jinmenusagi
Jinmenusagi is the rapper who changed the perception that internet rappers aren’t cool.
Until he came onto the scene, there was this vibe that “internet rapper = lame,” but his overwhelming skill put an end to that.
People often say the underground is the strongest, but honestly, these days the internet rappers are the real heavy hitters.
His track “opium feat.
Jin Dogg” is a masterpiece packed with everything that makes him so compelling.
Road Trip (Dir.by Spikey John)Shurkn Pap (MaisonDe)
From Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture comes MaisonDe, a crew born from a locally rooted, unique hip-hop culture.
Their 2018 hit track features a music video brimming with love for cars that makes you think, “So the world of Fast & Furious really does exist in Japan.” It’s a dreamlike work in which a young, contemporary hip-hop artist introduces a lowrider equipped with hydraulic suspension.