Recommended classic tracks of Japanese reggae: Japanese reggae songs that resonate with the heart
A must-hear collection of classic tracks for fans of Japanese reggae—“Japa-reggae.”
This includes reggae-influenced pop that was popular in Jamaica from the 1960s to the 1980s, and the evolution into dancehall reggae, which helped take root in Japan thanks to RANKIN TAXI—often called the father of Japanese reggae—continuing his Kansai radio program “Natty Jamaica.”
Today, it’s loved as a culture that transcends time and borders.
Reggae’s open, liberating vibe and its powerful, positive musicality are truly uplifting to listen to!
Tune in with an ear for songs that wish for a bright future and celebrate everyday life.
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Recommended classic tracks of Japanese reggae: Japanese reggae songs that touch the heart (71–80)
Life is wonderfulRickie-G
Set to a soothing reggae rhythm, this song celebrates the joys of everyday life and the wonder of living.
Rickie-G’s warm vocals gently embrace meetings and farewells along the journey, as well as the preciousness of days spent with a loved one.
Featured on the November 2006 album “Life is wonderful,” the track is also known for its tie-in with Fuji TV’s “Terrace House.” Its unique sound, blending acoustic elements with a soulful melody, is perfect for long trips or when you’re on your way to a new place.
It’s a song that gently gives you a push when you’re at a turning point in life or about to take a new step forward.
GROOVEThe Speakers
Here’s a track by The Speakers, a dancehall unit from Gifu Prefecture.
It features an aggressive production that perfectly fits the term “dancehall reggae.” The bassline has a solid, weighty sense of stability.
Pay attention to how it builds up before the hook! The mic relay that connects one after another is a highlight, of course, but the furious high-speed flow in the latter part of the song is an absolute must-hear!
Dream LoverINFINITY16
INFINITY 16 is a sound system recognized not only in Japan but around the world.
They won the sound clash “International Cup – Garrison Showdown” held in Brooklyn, New York, despite being away from home.
While their name recognition in Japan isn’t that high, they actually have an amazing track record! Their classic song “Dream Lover,” a debut single, features an impressive lineup including Shonan no Kaze and MINMI.
flowIRIE&IRIE
This is the second track by IRE&IRE, released nationwide from Nagasaki in Kyushu.
Breaking nine months of silence since the release of their debut single “Orange,” an unprecedentedly exhilarating uptempo tune that drew a huge response, this much-anticipated release has finally arrived for fans.
Incidentally, the illustration was created by nobugorilla, a manga artist active mainly in the Kanto region.
While I’m Alive feat. SHINGO☆Nishinari & HannyaTAK-Z
This is an advance single from TakuG’s new album scheduled for release in 2020.
In the music video, the multitalented actor Arata Iura appears and directs a drama-style visual that adds color to the song’s atmosphere.
It’s an ambitious work featuring SHINGO★Nishinari and Hannya.
night trainTwigy
After performing as MICROPHONE PAGER with Twigy—who commands a devoted following—rapper P.H., now popular as a solo artist for his understated, burnished style, delivers the classic track “P.H.” While both artists are fixtures in the hip-hop scene, this work takes a slightly unorthodox approach to hip-hop, featuring a track that hints at dancehall elements throughout.
Their flows are exceptionally distinctive, so if you’re into unconventional hip-hop, this is a must-check.
Lifetime RespectMiki Dōsan
This is the 21st single by singer-songwriter Michi Dozan (Miki Dozan), who has been active as DOZAN11 since 2014 and showcases a wide range of talents, including reggae DJ and producer.
With a liberating, unmistakably reggae beat and straightforward lyrics, the track became famous for bringing the reggae genre—then not widely recognized in Japan’s music scene—to nationwide attention.
Its distinctive, catchy phrases and naturally body-swaying groove reaffirm the strong affinity between the Japanese language and reggae music, making it an anthem of Japanese reggae.
