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 Japanese reggae tracks: Japanese reggae songs that resonate with the heart (101–110)
Don’t Give Up Yourself !!HAN-KUN
HAN-KUN, a member of Shonan no Kaze, is active in the mainstream scene and a key figure in popularizing Japanese reggae.
Isn’t his appeal his vocal tone? He has such a distinctive voice that you can tell it’s HAN-KUN after just a moment of listening.
Fans say his voice is easy to pick out even in a rub-a-dub.
His track “Don’t Give Up Yourself !!” was released in 2011 as his fourth single.
The lyrics are very positive, so it might be good to listen to when you’re feeling down.
DEAR…NISSIN
With his distinctive flow, real lyrics, and smooth, expansive vocals, NISSIN captured the hearts of audiences and gradually made a name for himself.
After returning from Jamaica, he released this self-produced solo debut single, which recorded strong sales.
It’s a straightforward love song dedicated to a girl.
New Foundation: Learning from the past to create the newRUEED
RUEED, a native of Yokosuka in Kanagawa Prefecture and the younger brother of actor Yosuke Kubozuka—who is also a reggae musician—released this track on his 2008 debut album, “New Foundation.” Written by RUEED himself, the song portrays the enduring love of reggae and its free-flowing inspiration.
It’s a standout piece that shines with a spirit of learning from the past to create something new, as its rhythmical flow—overflowing with admiration for reggae’s birthplace—soaks in smoothly and absorbs the best of what came before.
Tomorrow’s windMiki Dōsan
Known as DOZAN11, Michiyama Miki is the artist behind the long-running hit “Lifetime Respect,” which became the first reggae singer’s single to top the charts.
This track was included as the B-side to that single.
Some of you might be more familiar with BES’s cover version.
“Ashita no Kaze” (Wind of Tomorrow) features lyrics whose beauty and encouragement unfold like a vivid landscape before your eyes.
It’s a song that gives you the strength to start over when you feel like you’re about to lose or after you’ve faced a setback.
With the kind of power that’s quintessentially Michiyama Miki, it strikes straight to the heart—a wonderful reggae song that stirs you to cheer yourself on.
Tokyo CityKotobukikun
Kotobuki-kun is a reggae singer with a catchy musical style who’s active on the major scene.
Lately, he’s been competing in the MC battle tournament “Adrenaline,” earning props in the hip-hop scene as well.
He’s released a number of great tracks, but the one I especially recommend is “Tokyo City.” The recent reggae scene has been heavily influenced by hip-hop, and this track, in particular, draws strong inspiration from trap music on the production side.
Of course, the vocals are solidly reggae, so reggae fans will enjoy it too!
Recommended classic Japanese reggae tracks: Japanese reggae songs that touch the heart (111–120)
MelosPUSHIM, THUNDER
This is a work by PUSHIM, a singer from Osaka, and THUNDER, a reggae artist from Hyogo Prefecture.
PUSHIM’s sensual, richly expressive vocals and THUNDER’s singing—honed through repeated trips to Jamaica, the home of reggae, where he has absorbed the authentic scene—really hit you in the heart.
The mature, laid-back track is extremely pleasant and seems like a perfect match for a slightly cool summer night.
PARK feat. ISSEIPUSHIM
One of the collaborations drawing attention for its luxury is “PARK feat.
ISSEI.” This piece was created by reggae singer PUSHIM, who invited ISSEI to produce the track.
It’s a tie-in song with the apparel brand AKTR, carrying a message of understanding each other through sports rather than competing.
Watching the music video, in which the two perform on a basketball court, will help you feel that world even more.
The cool fashion is also a highlight.
