Stylish hip-hop! A roundup of classic albums in Western jazzy hip-hop
Even among music lovers, there are probably many people who, based on a vague image, feel something like, “Hip-hop—or rather rap—isn’t really my thing…” Of course everyone has their likes and dislikes, but if you change your point of entry, you might be surprised to find yourself getting into it.
With that hope in mind, this article focuses on overseas “jazzy hip-hop”! As the name suggests, it’s hip-hop influenced by jazz—generally called “jazz rap” abroad—a subgenre of hip-hop that blossomed in the 1990s.
Even if you’re not into hip-hop, please enjoy these classic albums with stylish tracks and grooves that are easy to listen to and will get your heart dancing!
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Stylish hip-hop! A roundup of classic Western JAZZY HIP HOP albums (11–20)
Do the Astral PlaneFlying Lotus
Flying Lotus is a highly talented artist who grew up in a musical family as a relative of jazz master John Coltrane.
His third album, Cosmogramma, released in 2010, fully showcases his distinctive style that fuses electronica and jazz.
The participation of high-profile guests such as Thom Yorke and Thundercat also drew attention.
The album received critical acclaim and won an Independent Music Award in the Dance/Electronica category.
Its innovative, genre-defying sound is recommended for anyone seeking a new musical experience.
Fudge PudgeOrganized Konfusion
Organized Konfusion is an alternative hip-hop duo formed in 1987 in Queens, New York, by Pharoahe Monch and Prince Po.
They weren’t the type to score massive mainstream hits, but within the East Coast underground hip-hop scene they became widely known and amassed a passionate fanbase.
The duo’s masterful rapping by two highly skilled MCs and their distinctive sonic world—built on tracks rooted in jazz and funk—continue to be highly acclaimed today.
All three of the original albums they left behind are considered classics, but in this piece we’ll focus on their landmark 1991 debut album, Organized Konfusion.
Just one listen to Fudge Pudge—with its fast BPM, sinuous bassline, and strikingly beautiful piano phrases—and you’re bound to be knocked out.
It’s also said to be the first recording by O.C., a member of the Diggin’ in the Crates Crew.
Walk Into The Sun, which samples The Crusaders’ Merry Go Round, is another absolute standout.
Their thought-provoking lyrics tackle a variety of themes, showcasing the duo’s versatility.
I Don’t Do It ToEric Lau
Eric Lau is a London-based music producer and DJ.
His music is characterized by heavy beats and gentle melodies.
His debut album, New Territories, was released in 2008 on Ubiquity Records and features 14 tracks of jazzy hip-hop grounded in R&B and soul.
With a diverse lineup of guest vocalists, it showcases a refined sound that fuses live instrumentation with digital production.
Drawing on his Hong Kong roots, Eric brings a distinctive flavor to the album.
It’s a stylish, easy-listening record that’s recommended even for those who don’t usually enjoy hip-hop.
Umi SaysMos Def
Mos Def’s Black on Both Sides is his debut solo album, released in 1999.
It’s known as a landmark of East Coast hip-hop that incorporates elements of jazz and soul.
The lyrics, which sharply portray social issues and personal experiences, and the album’s diverse musicality have been highly praised, earning it a Gold certification.
Tracks from the album were also featured on the soundtrack of the film Brown Sugar, reflecting its broad appeal.
It’s a great recommendation even for those new to hip-hop, offering a powerful sense of the music’s depth and diversity.
Leaving HellR.A.P. Ferreira
Even in the 2020s, it’s only natural that hip-hop works influenced by jazz continue to be released.
Purple Moonlight Pages, released in 2020, earned high praise as an album that channels the early-’90s jazz-rap vibe through the lens of underground indie hip-hop of the 2020s.
It’s the first album released under the name R.A.P.
Ferreira by Chicago-born rapper Rory Ferreira (born in 1992), who had been putting out music prolifically as milo.
The producer is Kenny Segal, known as a key figure in the West Coast underground hip-hop scene, with members of The Jefferson Park Boys—Ferreira’s own group—also contributing.
While several tracks feature the kind of abstract production characteristic of Rory Ferreira, overall it can be described as hip-hop with a strong jazz sensibility.
With a live bassist providing basslines on most tracks, the loose delivery pairs with the instrumentation to create a distinctive groove.
Don’t CryJ Dilla
J Dilla was a producer who revolutionized hip-hop.
His final work, Donuts, was released on February 7, 2006—his 32nd birthday.
Just three days before he passed away, he delivered an instrumental hip-hop masterpiece brimming with his musical genius.
The album features 31 tracks that showcase his distinctive sense of rhythm and masterful sampling, influencing countless artists.
Its sophisticated sound, infused with elements of jazz and soul, is recommended even for those who aren’t usually into hip-hop.
It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking a deep and richly flavored musical experience.
Stylish Hip-Hop! A roundup of classic Western Jazzy Hip-Hop albums (21–30)
The Music feat. SIENNAFunky DL
From the moment you see the album title “Blackcurrent Jazz,” you can sense a rich jazz aroma wafting through.
Hailing from the UK, Funky DL is a quintessential rapper-producer known for his jazzy hip-hop.
He’s enjoyed success in the U.S.
as well, producing for major artists like Missy Elliott, and in Japan he’s widely known for his close association with the late Nujabes.
A prolific artist who continues to release music energetically, Funky DL’s standout work—and the one we’ll introduce here—is the classic “Blackcurrent Jazz.” If you’re into jazz rap, this is a must-hear, and it’s also highly recommended as the perfect first entry into Funky DL’s music.
As noted at the outset, this is a straightforwardly jazz-themed project, offering a sophisticated mellowness that seamlessly bridges jazz and hip-hop—an endlessly pleasant, blissful listening experience that will appeal not only to jazz fans but also to lovers of R&B.
It’s not just “kinda jazzy” for the vibe; it’s the sound of an artist with jazz firmly rooted in his background, and it’s outstanding.
As an aside, this work has become a series, with three albums released as of 2022.