[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 (21–30)
Ding Ding Dong ~The Bell of the Heart~AK-69
Unleash the emotions hidden deep in your heart.
AK-69’s music powerfully calls for the importance of self-expression and releasing your inner passion.
It portrays the value of having a will that won’t yield to others and living an unconventional life, giving listeners courage and energy.
Released in September 2007, this track was used as the opening theme for “What’s up ‘Z’” within the TV program “CLUB Z-SATURDAY.” It’s a must-listen for anyone facing challenges and striving to forge their own path.
B-BOY-ismRHYMESTER
Among hip-hop groups that have made a major-label debut, the most famous is probably RHYMESTER, right? Many people likely think of them as a group known for catchy melodies and lyrics.
Their song “B-BOY Ism” is a classic released in 1998 and became a major hit for hip-hop.
Since it’s a track themed around aesthetics, why not give it a listen when you want to boost your motivation?
Street DreamsZeebra
Zeebra, a legend of Japanese rap, is now active across various fields, focusing on producing as well as appearing on TV and radio.
His classic track “Street Dreams” is a work that threw a stone into the pond of Japanese rap, which was often said to be of low caliber.
While its passionate lyrics about Japanese rap leave a strong impression, the track itself is also incredibly emotional, so it’s frequently played at MC battle events.
Be sure to check it out!
Poem of a VillainD.O
D.O, the rapper who represents Nerima.
He finally came back from prison in December 2021.
Now armed with even more props and releasing new tracks, D.O has left behind many classics in the past as well.
Among his works, the song I especially recommend is Akutō no Uta (Poem of a Villain).
It’s based on WAR, a classic by the Chicago brass band Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, and the lyrics depict the stance of a villain.
Rather than representing himself, this villain feels more like an embodiment of the ideal way he believes a rapper should be.
Onahamaoni
Even the artist’s name is intense, and the lyrics themselves tap into the very essence of hip-hop music.
It’s a work with a sense of truth that lets you experience the realities of society—what’s called the ghetto—within Japan’s peaceful underground scene.
overwinteringIce Bahn
When it comes to rhymes, it’s got to be ICE BAHN! Formed in 2001, they’ve been active for many years up to the present.
While many hip-hop groups break up or go on hiatus, their friendship is famous for being rock solid.
Among their tracks, the one hailed as legendary is Ettou (Overwintering).
From easy-to-catch rhymes to high-difficulty schemes to stealth rhymes, rhymes pop up everywhere—making it an irresistible track for anyone who puts a premium on rhyming!
spring cleaningkingu gidora
It was Seiko Ito who brought hip-hop to Japan, but there’s no doubt it was King Giddra who truly shaped Japanese hip-hop.
Nowadays they’re seen as legends and their public image tends to come first, but back then they were releasing some pretty edgy tracks.
Their song “Oosouji” is a classic where you can really feel that sharp, prickly side of King Giddra.
It’s an incredibly dope track—if you’re interested, definitely give it a listen!