[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)
What’s Poppin feat. LANAJP THE WAVY & JIGG
This work, released by JP THE WAVY—who’s also active as a dancer—in collaboration with producer JIGG, stands out for its lyrics told from the perspective of young people enjoying parties and a free lifestyle.
Riding over a sophisticated beat, JP THE WAVY unfolds his distinctive lyricism.
The track is included on the EP “Hit Different,” released in May 2023, and features a standout, high-profile collaboration with LANA.
The music video directed by filmmaker Spikey John is also a must-see, fully expressing the artist’s unique world.
With its energetic and positive vibe, this song is perfect for lifting your mood or soundtracking a party scene.
A Guide to Getting High LegallyCreepy Nuts
Creepy Nuts is a duo made up of R-Shitei, the strongest battle MC in Japan, and DJ Matsunaga, the world’s strongest DJ.
They’re an unbelievable “strongest × strongest” combo, yet their unique personalities and the approachable vibe of friendly older brothers have earned them support across a wide range of generations.
Their track ‘Gōhōteki Tobikata no Susume’ (How to Get High Legally) is the work that put their name on the map, carrying a message characteristic of R-Shitei: “Don’t get high by doing dangerous things—let’s get high by listening to music.”
[J-Pop Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (31–40)
One should lend an earRHYMESTER
RHYMESTER is a hip-hop group formed in 1989.
Since they’re still active in the mainstream, many of you may already know them.
Their track “Mimi o Kasubeki” (You Should Lend an Ear) is one of their signature songs.
It was released in 2000, but the melody feels fresh and timeless.
The tune is so distinctive that even if you haven’t heard it before, you’ll probably go, “Ah! That’s RHYMESTER!”
Tonight is Boogie BackOzawa Kenji feat. Suchadarapaa
It was a revolutionary song in the J-pop scene at the time, establishing a style where the chorus is sung with a memorable melody while the verses are rapped.
This version prominently features the vocals, whereas the version released under Scha Dara Parr featuring Kenji Ozawa focuses mainly on the rap.
serious injuryoo-kami
Released in 1996, this track is by a special unit formed by BUDDHA BRAND and SHAKKA ZOMBIE.
The sampling track uses A Taste of Honey’s “Rescue Me.” Considered one of the divine classics of Hip Hop, the late DEV LARGE’s flow and OSUMI’s powerful rap still sound absolutely timeless today.
The wordplay and back-and-forth are superb, making it an easy track for beginners to get into.
Sick CityMICROPHONE PAGER
If there’s a key to the roots of how Japanese hip-hop emerged, it’s these guys—Microphone Pager, without a doubt.
You can’t talk about Japanese hip-hop without knowing this track.
Witness the world that opens up when you learn about the originals.
I messed up.hannya
The legendary rapper, Hannya.
There’s no rapper with more vibes than him, right? Many of you probably know him as the final boss on Freestyle Dungeon.
Hannya’s works can be broadly divided into two types: one that prioritizes catchiness and another that prioritizes entertainment.
This track, “Yacchatta” (“I Messed Up”), falls into the entertainment-focused category, and it stands out for its insanely funny lyrics.
It’s a comedic style of rap, but the message runs deep—definitely give it a listen!