Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026]
Hip-hop is a music genre that has developed alongside its own culture, including dance, rap, and sampling.
Although it originated in the United States, there are many artists in Japan who have been influenced by hip-hop.
This time, we’ll introduce a ranking of popular Japanese artists who perform hip-hop.
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- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
Popular Hip-Hop: Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (31–40)
WAVEBODY (Remix)JP THE WAVY36rank/position
Featuring a stellar lineup including JP THE WAVY, this track is a guaranteed mood-lifter for the summer.
In the music video, child actors evoking the rappers’ younger selves appear, and the 2000s-inspired visuals add a nostalgic touch that brings back warm memories.
It’s a song you can’t look away from, with powerful bonds among friends and a performance full of confidence.
The MV was released in October 2021, and the track is included on the album “WAVY TAPE 2 (Deluxe)” from the same year.
It drew attention at the time, topping LINE MUSIC’s real-time video chart, among other achievements.
It also saw heavy play in the club scene, including appearances on Red Bull RASEN.
Put it on for summer drives or when you’re hanging out with friends and want to hype things up—you’re guaranteed an even bigger boost.
Let the powerful, deep bass beat take over and enjoy it as the perfect summer BGM!
Money Baby ft. AwichKEIJU37rank/position
This is a profound love song that contrasts money and affection.
Released in October 2024 by KEIJU and Awich, the track centers on the emptiness that material wealth cannot fill and the redemption found in true love.
Premiered before an audience of 8,000 at the finale of KEIJU’s first nationwide tour, it sparked major buzz as the pair’s first eagerly awaited collaboration in seven years.
The lyrics candidly express the mindset of modern people grappling with loneliness, questioning the true value of love that money can’t buy.
It’s a recommended listen for anyone struggling in a romantic relationship or reflecting on the essential richness of life.
In My LifeSALU38rank/position
SALU, who hails from Sapporo, debuted in 2012.
Some of you may have discovered him through his collaborations with SKY-HI or his participation in Shota Shimizu’s tracks.
“In My Life” feels like it carries the wish to acknowledge each other just as we are, saying, “This is my life.” You only live once! It’s easy to listen to even if you’re not familiar with hip-hop, and I highly recommend it.
SALU’s smooth flow has a warmth to it, and it gently casts a soft light on the state of the world—where there are excessive reactions and invisible enemies that are very much a sign of our times.
The Last One feat. J-REXXXJAPANĪZUMAGENĪZU39rank/position
This track captivates with a unique atmosphere born from the fusion of hip-hop and reggae.
Centered on themes of farewell and new beginnings, it uses cigarettes symbolically to depict the end of a party and the resolve to take the next step.
It carries a positive message about forging one’s own path even within society’s constraints, making it an empowering song that resonates with listeners.
Released in August 2022, it was included on Japanese Mageneeze’s album TRIP MASTER2.
Blending a laid-back vibe with strong determination, this piece is recommended for those facing new challenges or looking to reset their daily routine.
Made my dayDakkii × Sweet William40rank/position
Rapper Tsubaki, who is gaining fans rapidly and is based in Okinawa.
Together with track maker Sweet William, this hit song shines with lyrics that reveal a decadent background, in contrast to its comfortable track.
Judging by the sound alone, it seems likely to win support from female listeners too, but content-wise, most of the fans appear to be men—at least from what I see around me.
That said, I often spot women swaying their shoulders while watching the live performance at festivals.
A new-generation hip-hop artist whose future activities are highly anticipated.
Popular Hip-Hop. Japanese Artist Rankings [2026] (41–50)
MakuharBonbero, LANA, MFS, Watson41rank/position
This ambitious work brings together artists who represent the new generation of Japanese rap.
Centered on urban life and the pursuit of success, it powerfully traces the journey from past struggles to present achievements.
With contributions from fresh young creators, it has an energetic finish.
Released in April 2023, it also drew attention as a promotional track for the POP YOURS festival held at Makuhari Messe in Chiba in May of the same year.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to try Japanese rap at karaoke or are interested in today’s hip-hop scene.
Yukichi FukuzawaNinja We Made It.42rank/position
Ninja We Made It is a music unit that set its sights on becoming “Japan’s coolest creative collective” and began its YouTube activities in 2020.
Their track Fukuzawa Yukichi, which became a huge topic primarily on TikTok, hooks you with its addictive, comical lyrics.
The flow, carried in an overall low tone, is fun to perform, but be careful—the intricately rising and falling melody can be hard to memorize.
Since the song is under two minutes long, it’s an easy number for anyone who wants to try rapping at karaoke.
