[Reggae] Japan’s Leading Ragamuffin | A Must-See for Japa-Reggae Fans!
These days, reggae deejays have been making waves in MC battles, and reggae is becoming known to a broader audience.
Still, even if many people are familiar with the term “ragamuffin,” they may not really understand what it means.
The definition of ragamuffin is fuzzy, but to put it simply, it means “dancehall performed by reggae deejays.”
In other words, when a deejay sings over upbeat, electronic-leaning reggae, that’s ragamuffin.
Here, we’ve compiled some classic ragamuffin tracks!
We’ve also included the latest tunes, so this is a must-read if you’re just starting to get into reggae!
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[Reggae] Japan’s Leading Ragamuffin | A Must-See for Japareggae Fans! (11–20)
WINE YEAHMicky Rich
Not limited to reggae and dancehall, DJ MICKY RICH excels across all tropical genres like soca, reggaeton, and island pop.
He’s an artist who consistently energizes the scene with his high-level musicality.
His ragamuffin track here is “WINE YEAH.” Set over a simple riddim with catchy vocals, it carries hot vibes while also giving off a subtly cool atmosphere.
The Time Has ComeJUMBO MAATCH
DJ JUMBO MAATCH, whose distinctive voice and fiery vibes earn him respect from many fans.
He’s a member of MIGHTY JAM ROCK—known to anyone who loves reggae—and lately he’s been appearing in hip-hop MC battles, so he’s popular beyond the reggae scene as well.
One of his signature tracks is the ragga tune “The Time Has Come.” Among JUMBO MAATCH’s songs, this ragga is especially polished and stylish, delivering a consistently cool impression throughout.
I AM RAGGAMUFFINRagarabo MUSIQ
Ragalabo Musiq is a reggae group from Osaka made up of three members: Boogie Man, Vader, and Arm Strong.
If you’re into reggae, you’ve definitely heard of them.
Among their works, the ragga track I especially recommend is I AM RAGGAMUFFIN.
The title literally says, “I’m a raggamuffin.” It’s crafted as a hard-hitting dancehall tune and is packed with incredible vibes from start to finish.
GANGALEERUEED & Tonzilla
The classic track “GANGALEE,” a collaboration between RUEED and Tonzilla.
RUEED is also well-known as the younger brother of actor Yosuke Kubozuka.
Unlike his earlier style, this song features consistently aggressive lyrics throughout.
If you liked the vibe RUEED had when he clashed with CHEHON in their COMBAT, this track will be irresistible.
The riddim is simple yet incredibly dope, too.
Pay attention to both the riddim and the lyrics.
BASARAVADER
VADER is a popular deejay with a gritty, gravelly voice, yet—like NG-HEAD—he also has an outstandingly easy-to-listen-to delivery.
If you’re into reggae, you’ll know he’s the face of Raggaholic MUSIQ.
Among his works, the ragamuffin track I especially recommend is BASARA.
Every lyric comes through clearly, giving each verse the impact of a punchline.
Definitely check it out.
ACTION!MIGHTY CROWN FAMILY
Mighty Crown Family is a reggae sound system formed in 1991.
They’re a collective of selectors—put simply, it’s like a group of DJs.
They’ve performed worldwide, and even won the reggae clash “WORLD CLASH in New York.” Their ragamuffin track here is “ACTION!” It’s a fantastic piece featuring a dynamic back-and-forth between PAPA B and CHOZEN LEE.
[Reggae] Japan’s Leading Ragamuffin | A Must-See for Japa-Reggae Fans! (21–30)
water lily blossomShonan no Kaze
Beloved as a classic summer anthem and a go-to karaoke crowd-pleaser with friends, this song was released in June 2007 as their sixth single and went on to win Best Reggae Music Video at the MTV Japan Music Video Awards the following year.
More than just a cheerful summer tune, it carries a deeper message: like a water lily blooming into a grand flower from the mud, it mirrors the strength to live on by overcoming pain and tears.
Let its passionate sound and ode to life fill you with the courage to face any adversity.
It’s the perfect track to lift your spirits when you’re feeling down or to fuel you for tomorrow.
In conclusion
This time, we introduced Ragga Muffin artists who represent Japan.
The tracks built around their distinctive raspy voices were all powerful, weren’t they? Did you find a favorite song? In addition to this article, Rag Music features many pieces covering reggae from both Japan and abroad.
If you want to quickly deepen your knowledge of reggae, be sure to check those out too!