[MC Battle] Commonly Used Classic Beats and Popular Tracks
Thanks to the popularity of TV shows like “High School Rap Championship” and “Freestyle Dungeon,” MC battles seem to have spread even to audiences who weren’t very interested in hip-hop.
Of course, each MC’s distinctive rap is a highlight, but an extremely important element in MC battles is the beat the DJ plays.
Some people may not pay attention to the beats and might wonder why the crowd erupts the moment that first scratch hits.
The more you learn about what kind of tracks the beats come from, the more you can enjoy MC battles—and you’ll also come to understand the deep appeal of hip-hop as a genre.
In this feature, we’re introducing staple beats and popular tracks used in MC battles.
We’ve curated a lineup focused on Japanese hip-hop!
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[MC Battle] Commonly Used Classic Beats and Popular Tracks (21–30)
A Guide to Getting High LegallyCreepy Nuts
The song “Gōhōteki Tobikata no Susume,” which has been used frequently in recent battle scenes, is a classic by Creepy Nuts, who are active in the mainstream, so I think many people know it.
It’s a high-vibes track, so it usually gets the crowd going when it’s used in battles, but in some battles it’s led to a strange kind of hype.
One such example is the battle between Ryofu Karma and mol53.
The two had been going head-to-head, but as soon as they started battling over this beat, it suddenly turned into a bizarre development where DJ Matsunaga got dissed with a “F◯ck Matsunaga” (lol).
human power plantBUDDHA BRAND
BUDDHA BRAND is a legendary hip-hop unit that stays overground while earning props from heads across the board.
Their track “Ningen Hatsudensho” is their signature song and also their debut single.
Its classic beat paired with a nostalgic old-school flow leaves a strong impression.
It’s a track often used in MC battles, and MCs known for their flow—like Tipleso and ID—tend to ride it especially well.
Forbidden PlanetTaboo1 feat. Shibito
Among the classic songs of Japanese hip-hop, Forbidden Planet stands out as a particularly distinctive masterpiece.
When discussing this track, we have to start with the exceptional completeness of the production.
Japanese rap tracks are often relatively complex and can feel cluttered, but this song is crafted with striking simplicity.
Another essential point is Shito’s unique flow.
If you mainly watch MC battles, you might think Shito’s delivery resembles GOMESS’s.
In fact, GOMESS appears to be heavily influenced by him, sampling his rhymes in battles and paying respect.
CHECK YOUR MICShinpeita
A quintessential “orthodox” beat that breathes life into MC battles.
Released first as a single by Shinpeita in October 2015, the track was later included on his December 2015 album DIS IS RESPECT.
The song features a powerful flow and energetic beat, vividly capturing the immediacy of MC battles.
As the title suggests, it centers on the importance of mic checks, showcasing his exceptional freestyle skills to the fullest.
Frequently used at battle venues and live events, it’s highly regarded among up-and-coming MCs and hip-hop fans alike.
It’s also a great pick for battle newcomers—learning this track will undoubtedly make the world of MC battles even more enjoyable!
Bounce＄yuno
A track defined by a bouncy sense of rhythm and deep low-end is energizing the MC battle scene.
Produced by Yuno, this beat is built from scratch sounds and sharp snares/hi-hats, delivering a catchy groove that sticks in your ears.
It’s structured with markers every eight bars, making it easier for MCs to trade rhymes back and forth.
Released in June 2020 on “Sengoku MC BATTLE – BEST BOUT ORIGINAL BEAT,” it’s become a staple beat beloved in battle circles.
Knowing this when you watch MC battles helps you catch why the crowd erupts—and makes the experience even more fun.
It’s a perfect track for those interested in freestyle rap or anyone looking to dive deeper into Japan’s hip-hop scene.
Neva Enuff – BrotherZEEBRA + AKTION
This is a track by ZEEBRA, a leading figure in Japan’s hip-hop scene.
Inspired by the film “BROTHER,” the song is characterized by its heavy beat and powerful rap.
It conveys a determination to accept extreme choices in life, along with messages of freedom and defiance.
Released in January 2001, it reached No.
10 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, stayed on the charts for 13 weeks, and was certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
The track has been used in many iconic rap battle moments over the years.
It’s a must-listen not only for hip-hop fans but also for fans of the film “BROTHER.”
BillikenCreepy Nuts
The new track from hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts features a distinctive Jersey drill beat.
R-Shitei’s high-level rapping and DJ Matsunaga’s masterful turntable skills fuse together to create an addictive song.
Released in October 2023, the track was chosen for a tie-in with ZIMA, accompanied by a new movie and key visual.
The lyrics liken the rapper’s presence to Billiken, the god that brings happiness, delivering a positive message.
This piece is a song you can enjoy across various “play” scenes—live shows, festivals, and clubs.
Of course, it’s also used as a battle beat, where your skills are tested by whether you can ride this beat.