[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)
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.
CHAOSNovel Core
Novel Core, who draws attention both underground and aboveground, makes a powerful statement in this track about his identity as a rapper and his unfettered musical style.
Listening to it reminds you of the importance of living true to yourself.
The lyrics carry a heartfelt message, expressing a will to move forward in line with God’s plan through “CHAOS.” Released in March 2024, this song showcases Novel Core’s musical evolution.
It’s perfect for times when you feel lost or need a push forward, and it’s also recommended for anyone who wants to experience genre-defying, free-spirited music.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (171–180)
Do it feat. CandeeAK-69
A track released in June 2024 by AK-69, a leading figure in Japan’s hip-hop scene.
Featuring Candee, it’s crafted as a Miami bass party song.
Blending nostalgia with cutting-edge sound, the catchy, high-energy track pairs AK-69’s powerful rap with Candee’s skillful flow to draw listeners in.
The lyrics vividly portray nightlife and having fun, emphasizing a “live in the moment” attitude that delivers positive energy to the audience.
It’s the perfect song for lifting your mood or playing at a party with friends.
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!
drink communication (nomi-nication)Ketsumeishi
This song vividly conjures up a showdown between boss and subordinate at a company drinking party.
The way they unleash their pent-up frustrations in a rap-battle style is downright exhilarating—you’ll find yourself nodding, thinking, “So true!” The track was included on the album Ketsunopolis 11, released in October 2018.
If you’re feeling a bit worn out by your relationships with your boss or your team, listening to this might help you laugh it off with a “Well, whatever!” It could also be perfect for belting out with coworkers at karaoke.
WHOOOOZROSAURUS
Known for injecting heat into MC battles with a classic hip-hop beat born in Yokohama.
OZROSAURUS’s signature track, included on the album “ROLLIN’045” released in April 2001, influenced countless MCs with its heavy beats and hardcore flow.
Featuring powerful lyrics that reflect Yokohama’s street culture and a groove-rich sound, it became a legendary song that sold over 80,000 copies.
A staple among staples in the MC battle scene, it’s a rare track that sends the crowd into a frenzy the moment the intro scratches hit.
It’s the perfect track for those just getting into hip-hop or anyone who wants to experience the raw immediacy of MC battles more deeply.