[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 (161–170)
1st SONGDOBERMAN INFINITY
This song, notable for its dramatic tone, is a track released by DOBERMAN INFINITY in June 2024.
Its chill boom-bap sound resonates comfortably.
It was produced as a special single to commemorate the group’s 10th anniversary.
The lyrics look back on their journey while expressing a resolve for the future, conveying a positive message about overcoming hardships and taking a new step forward.
It also expresses gratitude to the fans, showcasing the depth of DOBERMAN INFINITY’s musicality and humanity.
Let’s keep supporting their work going forward.
IINDA.NORIKIYO
A track released from behind bars is making waves.
This new song by NORIKIYO, marked by its distinctive reggaeton rhythm and flow, was completed under the production of his close collaborator BACHLOGIC.
The music video was directed by Agro Creative and offers a closer look at NORIKIYO’s true self.
Since its digital release in March 2024, the work conveys NORIKIYO’s artistic spirit—his ability to keep creating no matter the circumstances.
It’s a track with a positive groove, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking street-level reality.
to flow; to stream; to run (liquid); to be washed away; to drift; to play (audio/video)STILLZ & Yuki Chiba
This track is memorable for its emotional vocals unfolding over immersive sound.
It appears on both Seigi Chiba’s collaborative album with filmmaker STILLZ, “separated at birth,” and on Chiba’s solo album, “Eien.” Released simultaneously in June 2025, the two albums are linked by this song, which serves as a kind of bridge between them.
Surrendering oneself to fate… it’s a piece to savor on a quiet night when you want to be alone with your thoughts.
Bad B*tch Aesthetic RemixAwich, NENE, LANA, MaRI, AI & YURIYAN RETRIEVER
This work brings together standout women from Japan’s hip-hop scene.
Alongside Awich, NENE, LANA, and MaRI, AI and YURIYAN RETRIEVER also join to complete the track.
With the theme of strong, independent womanhood, their mic relay showcases each artist’s individuality to stunning effect.
Released in July 2023, the song is also included on Awich’s album “The Union.” Their performance on the music show “Music Station” in October of the same year became a hot topic.
Split the parts with your friends at karaoke, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit—give it a try!
Never Lie (feat. YAMATO HAZE)MuKuRo & Gerardparman
This is a track included on the album “Ca$h Flow,” released as a collaboration between MuKuRo and Gerardparman.
It was created and performed by three people, with YAMATO HAZE joining as a guest.
The track has a calm atmosphere, and the chorus resonating in the background conveys a sense of composure.
As the title suggests, “lies” is the key theme of the song, depicting how situations change as lies accumulate.
No Limit feat. AK-69Kinashi Noritake
This song expresses an attitude of pushing beyond one’s limits and continuing to take on challenges.
It was originally created as the theme song for the 2022 parasports event “BEYOND STADIUM 2022.” Released digitally in October 2024, it drew attention as the lead track from the album “Kinashi Soul.” Featuring AK-69, a heavyweight in Japan’s hip-hop scene, it delivers a powerful message.
It’s packed with Noritake Kinashi’s energetic and positive spirit that defies age.
Sunshine feat. Miliyah KatoKM-MARKIT
Released in 2005, this track is included on KM-MARKIT’s solo debut single.
Although KM-MARKIT often appears as a featured artist, he takes the lead MC role on this song.
The sound leans strongly toward pop, and the arrangement highlights Miliyah Kato’s vocals.
Rather than a shouted rap style, it feels more like a spoken, conversational flow, making it a calm, immersive listen.