[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.
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[MC Battles] Frequently Used Classic Beats and Popular Tracks (31–40)
thunderous applauseDABO
The final battle between NAIKA MC and Hannya, aired in 2017 and still celebrated as one of the greatest battles in Freestyle Dungeon history.
The beat used in Round 2 was “Hakushu Kassai,” the major debut track by DABO—known as a member of NITRO MICROPHONE UNDERGROUND and the first artist to debut on Def Jam Japan.
It’s a no-questions-asked Japanese rap classic: hardcore yet stylish, with razor-sharp, masterful flows.
If you know your Japanese hip-hop history, this might also remind you of the famous beef between Kan a.k.a.
GAMI and DABO…
god; deity; kamiPSG
PSG is a hip-hop unit representing Itabashi, formed by PUNPEE, 5lack, and GAPPER, active in the late 2000s hip-hop scene.
One of their classic tracks is “Kamisama.” It’s a staple beat in MC battles—more recently, the clash between JAKE and Authority comes to mind.
Despite the pop-sounding title, the track itself is sharply crafted and cool, making it a song that often produces the best bouts.
BUSTDOWNAbara!
The track produced by the digital rock unit Abara! has gained overwhelming support in the world of MC battles.
Its distinctive sound—melding a heavy beat with a growling guitar riff—provides the perfect foundation to elevate MCs’ fiery flows.
The blend of electronica and rock elements also excels at amplifying the tension and excitement of battles.
Featured on the mini-album “GLITTER PRIDE,” released in January 2015, this piece was performed at their solo show at Roppongi morph-tokyo, sending the venue into a frenzy.
It’s a highly recommended track for anyone looking to get into MC battles or who’s interested in hip-hop culture.
One listen and you’ll instantly understand why the crowd erupts at the very first scratch.
BrainwashingAwich
Known as one of Awich’s signature tracks, this socially conscious hip-hop piece depicts characters operating behind the scenes of power.
Featuring DOGMA and Chinza DOPENESS, the song delivers sharp critiques of politics, capitalism, and the information society, and has also drawn attention as a beat for MC battles.
Included on Awich’s album “Kujaku” (Peacock) and released in January 2020, it also gained buzz for its music video, which evokes the atmosphere of Showa-era noir films.
With a heavy beat and strongly message-driven lyrics, it’s recommended not only for those practicing for MC battles, but also for listeners interested in social issues or in the expressive power of Japanese rap.
Ante UpM.O.P.
This track, known as a staple beat for MC battles, combines intensity with a distinctive atmosphere.
Released in August 2000, it was included on the album ‘Warriorz.’ Showcasing M.O.P.’s aggressive rap style, the song fully captures a gritty street vibe.
Elements sampled from ‘Soul Sister, Brown Sugar’ give it a unique flavor.
It has been featured in many works, including the films ‘The Last Castle’ and ‘Brown Sugar,’ and its appeal is widely recognized.
Highly recommended for those seeking an energetic mood.