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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 (41–50)

SYSTEMRAM HEAD

Official MV for 'RAM HEAD / SYSTEM'
SYSTEMRAM HEAD

He is a reggae singer who has been steadily honing his skills in Osaka, known as a fiercely competitive hub for reggae, and whose recognition has surged recently.

With a distinctive voice and outstanding vocal ability, his lyrics—sung from the heart—convey a palpable sense of what he wants to express.

Recommended classic tracks of Japanese reggae: soul-stirring Japanese reggae songs (51–60)

People and HeartsRAY

RAY / People and Heart (Full Length Music Video)
People and HeartsRAY

This song was originally quietly included on a compilation album called “kyoumei,” released in 2012.

This is the first time it has been unveiled as a single release.

It was digitally released on November 13, 2019, and is characterized by lyrics that depict the pure feelings that flicker deep within the human heart.

YOU & ISTEREON

A hypnotic tropical number that evokes sultry summer nights, released in April 2019 by STEREON from North Osaka.

Produced by Back Yaadie, it crafts a superbly mellow vibe.

Notably, it crosses over with the EDM sound design that became mainstream in the modern house scene in the late 2010s.

Light It Up feat. RUDEBWOY FACE & ¥ellow BucksBANTY FOOT

BANTY FOOT / Light It Up feat. RUDEBWOY FACE & ¥ellow Bucks 【OFFICIAL MV】
Light It Up feat. RUDEBWOY FACE & ¥ellow BucksBANTY FOOT

When people think of reggae, I imagine most picture Osaka.

It’s true that Osaka is often called the holy land of reggae in Japan, with many outstanding deejays and singers.

But that doesn’t mean great artists are concentrated only in Osaka.

BANTY FOOT, who perform “Light It Up feat.

RUDEBWOY FACE & ¥ellow Bucks,” are a reggae group representing the Tokai region and have released numerous classics.

Among them, this track became a nationwide hit, partly because it features ¥ellow Bucks, who is hugely popular in today’s hip-hop scene.

It’s a masterpiece where the strengths of reggae and hip-hop are expressed fully without getting in each other’s way.

STEP UP ~Swaying and Drifting~BOOGIE MAN

BOOGIE MAN – Step Up ~Swaying and Swayed~ [TAK-Z DUB - La La La La La Riddim-]
STEP UP ~Swaying and Drifting~BOOGIE MAN

One of Japan’s leading reggae artists, Boogie Man.

I’d like to introduce his signature track, “Step Up ~Yurari Yurarate~.” This song portrays a return to childlike innocence and a release from stress.

Packed with words that evoke leisure, it’s a perfect fit as background music for barbecues or camping.

In fact, a remix version was released in recent years and has been getting attention as well.

Why not give it a listen too? It has an even mellower vibe.

Minna no UtaFire Ball

FIRE BALL is the brother group of MIGHTY CROWN, which is highly acclaimed around the world.

As a group made up of top-class deejays and singers in Japan, their musicality has been highly praised both domestically and internationally.

Their hit track “Minna no Uta” is included on the album released in 2017, “”.

As lyrics dedicated to their fans, it stands out as a work with the feel of a cheering anthem.

YOROKOBI NO UTARANKIN TAXI

He is said to be the originator of Japan’s dancehall reggae scene.

A reggae DJ who has attracted attention from reggae communities around the world, he established the originality of Japanese reggae by writing Japanese lyrics that depict down-to-earth themes while inheriting authentic Jamaican manners.

He is also famous for live performances using a handmade speaker system and is known as the father of Japanese reggae.