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Recommended reggae

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.

Recommended classic Japanese reggae tracks: Japanese reggae songs that touch the heart (121–130)

24/7BIG BEAR

BIG BEAR / 24/7 (STEP UP RIDDIM) 【MV】
24/7BIG BEAR

What on earth does “twenty-four seven” mean? Those who know the lyrics probably noticed: 24 hours and 7 days.

In other words, it’s a song about every moment of the week—and about limited time.

It was released digitally in 2012, and I think its sensibility was pretty far ahead of its time.

The vocals are full-on vocoder.

Its upbeat message—“Let’s do what we can only do now!”—intertwines with the everyday scenes that catch the eye, resulting in a track that shines within its cheerful sound.

A slanted, striking STYLEPUSHIM

PUSHIM “Slanted Style” Music Video
A slanted, striking STYLEPUSHIM

A smooth dancehall tune released in 2018 by PUSHIM, the queen of Japanese reggae.

Even the title sounds cool, right? The bass-driven groove combined with PUSHIM’s languid vocals and effortlessly relaxed vibe makes it totally replay-worthy.

“Kimeru on the slant” (hitting it at an angle) might also carry the idea of embracing different sides of things.

A cool pop track to surrender to your instincts and senses.

The lyrics right before the second chorus are insanely cool—be sure to pay special attention there!

Don’t Be Afraid ~ nuh afraid ~ (feat. Ariwa, Jr. Santa & U the Starr)ZendaMan

Zendaman – Don’t Be Afraid ~ nuh afraid ~ feat. Ariwa, Jr. Santa & U the Starr (Official Music Video)
Don't Be Afraid ~ nuh afraid ~ (feat. Ariwa, Jr. Santa & U the Starr)ZendaMan

An exhilarating track that blends empowering messages with a powerful sound.

Based in Jamaica, ZendaMan sings about the strength to keep moving forward over a groovy beat born from the local music scene.

The distinctive flows of the four artists—Ariwa, Jr.

Santa, and U the Starr joining ZendaMan—are another highlight.

Featured on the album “Neo-Tokiwa,” released by MEDZ MUSIC in June 2024, it offers a stylish, modern reggae sound that resonates pleasantly.

It’s an uplifting anthem perfect for when you’re feeling down or ready to take a new step forward—especially recommended for female listeners.

Tomorrow’s windBES

BES / Breeze of Tomorrow (Short Version)
Tomorrow's windBES

BES is a reggae musician based mainly in Osaka.

He’s an artist known for his free-spirited style—like casually showing up at a club and breaking into song.

His music, both lyrics and melodies, is crafted to be extremely catchy.

This track, “Ashita no Kaze” (Wind of Tomorrow), is also highly catchy.

Its positive lyrics make it a great recommendation for anyone feeling down, as well as job-hunting students and exam-takers.

Be sure to check it out!

Recommended masterpieces of Japanese reggae. Japanese reggae songs that touch the heart (131–140)

Toxic Sweet feat. JP THE WAVYm-flo

An interstellar love story between a Martian and a human, painted over a reggae sound that evokes tropical beaches.

m-flo sings of a love on a cosmic scale.

The protagonist’s feelings as he’s drawn to a captivating yet dangerous Martian woman unfold alongside tropical, island-flavored sounds.

Released in August 2019, the track was performed with guest JP THE WAVY at m-flo’s 20th-anniversary live show “KYO,” where their energetic performance captivated the audience and blew away the summer heat.

It’s a recommended song for those who want to enjoy both the liberating feeling of a relaxing day at a summer beach and a grand, space-set narrative.

Daylight saving time!!MINMI

MINMI – Summer Time!! (“~HEMO Yosakoi SOCA Remix” | J-pop/Soca - 2005)
Daylight saving time!!MINMI

She is a singer-songwriter from Osaka.

Her hybrid musicality that crosses a variety of genres, lyrics with a strong message, a voice that combines feminine gentleness and strength, and the natural, positive presence she radiates have captivated many music fans.

While her music is rooted in reggae, this song incorporates many elements of soca.

DEARlecca

lecca / DEAR from BEST ALBUM 『BEST POSITIVE』
DEARlecca

Included on lecca’s first full-length album after her major-label debut, “URBAN PIRATES,” released in 2006.

Written and composed by lecca herself, with arrangement by Nao’ymt, known for his work with Namie Amuro.

It’s a song about friendship and family love that might especially move cat lovers to tears.

The reggae sound brimming with a tropical mood pairs beautifully with lyrics that feel like a letter.

The chorus melody is fantastic and leaves you feeling wonderfully cheerful!