[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 (191–200)
EXPO EXPOm-flo
From the historic masterpiece “EXPO EXPO,” themed around an imaginary world exposition, comes a stylish and cool track.
VERBAL’s rapid-fire, edgy rap work, LISA’s sultry vocals, and ☆Taku’s sophisticated sound design blend together seamlessly.
Released in March 2001, it reached No.
3 on the Oricon album chart, sold over 800,000 copies, and earned a Platinum certification.
The work captivates with its narrative centered on a tour of a fictional world exposition and its musical fusion of hip-hop, R&B, jazz, and funk.
It’s the perfect track for listeners seeking innovative sounds and a distinctive, imaginative world.
RUN AWAYSm-flo ♡ chelmico
This track shines with a futuristic sound woven from high-energy drum’n’bass and rap.
Released in June 2020, it marks the first entry in m-flo’s “loves” series in roughly 15 years.
Teaming up with the ever-popular chelmico for a hot feature, the song also received a music video styled like an ’80s daytime anime.
The dynamic rap tune beautifully blends the unique strengths of both m-flo and chelmico.
It’s a perfect fit for active moments—summer drives, sports workouts, party scenes, and more.
BANKChiba Yūki
Created by Yuki Chiba in collaboration with producer Koshy, this work portrays social themes of inequality and poverty with realism while expressing a strong will to break free from them.
With mixing and mastering by international sound creator Jaitzen Joshua, it achieves a world-class, heavyweight sound.
Released in March 2025 as the lead track from the album “Billionaire,” it offers a great opportunity to dive into the world of Japanese hip-hop.
Road feat. ILL-BOSSTINOAK-69
This is a track by AK-69, a leading figure in Japan’s hip-hop scene.
It’s included on the album “My G’s,” released in January 2025.
Featuring ILL-BOSSTINO, the song weaves weighty lyrics into a meticulously polished boom-bap beat.
You can really feel the stance of “overcoming adversity and staying true to your convictions.” It conveys a deep love and commitment to music.
It’s the kind of song that will give you courage when you’re trying to carve out your own path.
[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Songs (201–210)
Who is it?Chiba Yūki
It’s a soul-stirring track that invites you on a journey of self-discovery.
Created by Yuki Chiba and released in November 2024, the song is marked by lyrics that repeatedly ask, “Who am I?”—a memorable refrain that prompts you to reexamine your own sense of self.
Rooted in hip-hop while posing philosophical questions, this bold approach truly shines.
Give it a listen when you want to reset your feelings or calm your mind—you’re sure to uncover something new.
RICHMAN feat. VIGORMANWILYWNKA
This is a track by WILYWNKA, a leading figure of the new generation in Japanese rap.
The lyrics, centered on views about money and the pride he carries, leave a strong impression.
Despite its relaxed tempo, the powerful beat feels great, offering a mellow and stylish sound.
It’s included on the album “90’s Baby,” released on May 8, 2024, and the collaboration with VIGORMAN is another highlight.
Singing about a hip-hop dream he seized with his own hands, this song is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the appeal of the new wave of Japanese rap.
Make It Rain (feat. eyden & Watson)MC TYSON
A track that fuses a homage to 2000s hip-hop with a modern sensibility.
Packed with MC TYSON’s appeal, the song revolves around the theme of “making it rain,” flaunting a luxurious lifestyle and success.
Featured on the album THE MESSAGE 6, released in October 2024, it stands out with a beat reminiscent of classics by 50 Cent and Fat Joe.
The music video depicts lavish casino scenes and lively parties, blending nostalgia with freshness.
It’s a perfect pick for driving or party BGM.