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Recommended hip-hop/rap

[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!

[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (51–60)

BUDS MONTAGENectar

BUDS MONTAGE / Namerō (prod. GREEN ASSASSIN DOLLAR)
BUDS MONTAGENectar

Naritaruma is a hip-hop group indispensable to any discussion of the J-hip hop scene.

Among their tracks, “BUDS MONTAGE” is packed with poetic appeal.

Its cool beat, steeped in an ambient vibe, leaves a strong impression.

Also pay attention to the three distinct, aggressive flows, each showcasing a different member’s charm.

The song weaves sensational lyrics drawn from everyday life with impeccable rhymes.

Why not lend an ear to this deep track that slowly resonates in the heart?

Summer Jam ’95Suchadarapā

DAX × lute: Scha Dara Parr “Summer Jam 2020 ~ Summer Jam ’95”
Summer Jam ’95Suchadarapā

Scha Dara Parr, the group that created “Omoro Rap,” which pairs comical rhymes with high-sense tracks.

Even if you haven’t heard their songs, you’ve probably heard their name, right? Their “Summer Jam ’95” is a work packed with their charm.

The rhymes are comical, but the track is incredibly stylish—that contrast is what makes it so good.

If you’re tired of ordinary rap, definitely give it a listen!

Life StyleT-Pablow, YZERR (Prod by Gold Digga)

BAD HOP / Life Style – T-Pablow, YZERR (Prod by Gold Digga)
Life StyleT-Pablow, YZERR (Prod by Gold Digga)

Rappers T-Pablow and YZERR, whose stylish fashion sense has made them a big hit with people in their twenties, are famous as twin rappers.

What really brought them to wider public attention was their track “Life Style.” Thanks to this song, their crew BAD HOP also became widely known.

The melody has a bright vibe that evokes a tropical feel.

The theme of the song is something like “having fun and getting lively with your crew,” and the track fits that theme perfectly.

Baby Girl ~sweet lovesong~Mr.OZ feat CITY-ACE

Baby Girl ~sweet lovesong~/Mr.OZ feat CITY-ACE
Baby Girl ~sweet lovesong~Mr.OZ feat CITY-ACE

It’s a love song where a love story unfolds through mellow lyrics.

The beautiful melody and chorus convey a grand expression of love.

It’s a classic I can recommend even to those listening to Japanese hip-hop for the first time.

[Japanese Hip-Hop] Classic Japanese Rap Tracks (61–70)

Rep feat. MACCHOZORN

ZORN has been competing in MC battle events since his youth, consistently proving his skills.

His collaboration with OZROSAURUS’s MACCHO is this track, “Rep.” Released in 2019, what you should pay attention to are the lyrics brimming with hometown pride.

Hailing from Katsushika, Tokyo, ZORN raps as if reflecting on his life in hip-hop.

The cool yet humorous message is sure to resonate even with those who weren’t born in Katsushika.

City Breeze feat. REAL-TJin Dogg

Jin Dogg – “Street Vibe” feat. REAL-T (Official Music Video)
City Breeze feat. REAL-TJin Dogg

Jin Dogg is a rapper from Ikuno Ward in Osaka.

Having endured a difficult childhood due to his roots as a Korean resident in Japan, his appeal lies in the raw lyrics that reflect the life he experienced.

The lyrics of this song also contain many shocking episodes.

At the same time, it portrays his own methods of getting by amid countless headwinds, making it a recommended track to listen to as an anthem when you feel stuck in life.

I don’t care about being poor.KOHH

KOHH – “I Don’t Care About Being Poor” Official Video
I don't care about being poor.KOHH

For a long time, people have said that Japanese hip-hop is “behind the times.” The artist credited with introducing trap music to the Japanese rap scene and popularizing it is KOHH.

He’s an overground rapper, but he also commands overwhelming props from the underground and earns respect from his peers.

His track “Binbō Nante Ki ni Shinai” (“I Don’t Care About Being Poor”) is one of his signature songs.

It showcases his versatility: crafted with high-level structure while still employing catchy, everyday lyrics.