Recommended reggae

Recommended classic tracks of Japanese reggae: Japanese reggae songs that resonate with the heart

Editor-in-Chief, RAG MUSICHane Keisuke
Editor-in-chief of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. After working in a music studio and handling wedding sound, joined the RAG MUSIC editorial team in 2016. Experienced with a variety of instruments: marching band in elementary school, clarinet in junior high school wind ensemble, and drums in a band from high school onward. Drawing on my own musical activities and the experience gained through my work, I produce daily articles, including various song introductions, features on music festivals around the country, and live reports. In music, I enjoy not only rock from Japan and abroad but, lately, a wide range of J-pop as well.
A Vocaloid producer who is also a music writerAraki Jakkan
I’ve worked in a variety of roles—regardless of pro or amateur settings—including live event PA, cameraman for video and photography, restaurant staff, and logistics center staff. I now spend my days as a part-time writer. I’ve contributed to music and manga websites with feature/review articles, and wrote the liner notes included as a bonus for 1st PLACE Inc.’s “IA SUPER BEST.” As for my music background, I started playing guitar in junior high and focused on band activities during my school years. For over 15 years since then, up to the present, I’ve continued releasing original tracks as a Vocaloid producer. My areas of expertise are Japanese rock, Vocaloid, and manga.

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)

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!

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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!

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Let’s do our best! (Prod. 774)J-REXXX

J-REXXX – Let's Do Our Best! (Prod. 774) [Official Music Video]

Let's do our best! (Prod. 774)J-REXXX

Released in 2020 and included on the album “ORIGINAL,” this is J-REXXX’s cheer song dedicated to the COVID era.

In the music video, the connection to an election speech also feels like part of the message, while the simple lyrics slowly sink in just by listening.

The compassionate, positive words really touch the heart.

J-REXXX’s vocals and the warm, reggae vibe are uplifting.

Perhaps it’s precisely in times like these that we need songs like this.

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REGGAE BOOM BAPPUSHIM

PUSHIM – REGGAE BOOM BAP (Official Music Video)

REGGAE BOOM BAPPUSHIM

This track features a comfortably smooth groove where reggae and hip-hop are exquisitely blended, highlighted by PUSHIM’s powerful, soulful vocals.

Crafted as a strong message song for everyone, it delivers a compelling sound that will captivate not only reggae fans but hip-hop listeners as well.

Released in February 2025 to mark the 25th anniversary of her debut, it stands as a milestone work.

Built on a riddim produced by KILLA NAMI and co-produced with Setouchi Music Factory, the song shines with refined production.

It’s perfect when you want a boost of optimism for tomorrow or need to fire yourself up.

A warm, comforting track that gently supports a tired heart.

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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

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

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.

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