A friendship song spun with rap: a roundup of classic hip-hop tracks
Singer-songwriters, rock bands, Vocaloid producers—you name it—artists across all kinds of genres release friendship-themed songs, and of course the hip-hop scene has plenty of them too!
Along with tracks by popular hip-hop groups, there are also many songs crafted with featured guest artists.
In this article, we’ll introduce standout tracks that weave rap lyrics celebrating the bonds of friendship.
Each song has its own vibe and message embedded in the lyrics, so take your time listening while reading along, and find your new favorite.
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A friendship song spun with rap. A roundup of hip-hop classics (1–10)
Our Song feat. MACCHONORIKIYO
A friendship anthem spun through rap.
This track, included on “Heisei Express,” is by NORIKIYO and MACCHO.
Riding a heavy beat, their commanding flows fuse together.
Opening with the lyric “There’s no meaning in simply being born,” it calls on listeners to become the protagonists of their own lives.
Released in March 2019 on their ninth album, the song’s music video—directed by filmmaker Katsuya Tomita—was shot in the slums of the Philippines.
It’s a recommended listen for those in the midst of self-discovery or anyone who wants to cherish bonds with friends.
Team friendsChiba Yūki
Yuki Chiba’s song celebrating friendship and bonds was released in February 2024.
Set to a hip-hop rhythm, it repeats the phrase “Team Friends,” expressing a strong connection with his crew.
It’s striking how the lyrics weave in friendships that span regions like Kansai and Kanto.
Through everyday scenes—eating okonomiyaki together, reaching out right away when feeling lonely—the song portrays the depth of friendship.
Despite its simple structure, it’s a warm track that conveys the importance of human connection.
A live performance video on social media has generated buzz, drawing attention from hip-hop fans.
Dear My FrendSALU
There are plenty of friendship-themed songs in the hip-hop scene, too.
This track by SALU is one of them.
It expresses gratitude, regret, and a touch of melancholy toward a friend.
Set against an urban backdrop, it portrays the complexities of friendship and life.
It’s included on the album “INDIGO,” released in May 2017, and its blend of hip-hop and R&B elements is striking.
SALU infuses his lyrics with his own experiences and emotions, so you can catch a glimpse of his inner world through this song as well.
It’s recommended for when you want to feel the bond of friendship or reflect on relationships.
Friendship Songs Spun Through Rap: A Collection of Hip-Hop Classics (11–20)
Good FellowsWILYWNKA
One standout example of a song that deeply explores the bonds of friendship is this work by WILYWNKA.
Featured on the album “Sacula,” it’s a track that captures the essence of hip-hop.
The lyrics convey strong ties among friends and the importance of supporting one another, delivering messages that resonate with listeners.
Released in September 2018, the song showcases WILYWNKA’s musical style and has been highly praised by fans.
It’s perfect for young people struggling with friendship or anyone who wants to reaffirm their bonds with close companions.
Why not listen to it together with your best friend?
TEAMLEX, Only U, Yung sticky wom
A collaborative track by three up-and-coming rappers leading the new generation of hip-hop.
It’s a friendship anthem crafted by LEX, Only U, and Yung sticky wom, who are based in Yokohama.
The lyrics reflect their bonds with friends and their zest for everyday life, conveying a sense of connection through social media and love for their hometown.
Released in July 2021, the song is also included on their album COSMO WORLD.
The music video—shot against the backdrop of Yokohama’s cityscape—is a must-see.
Its catchy, youth-driven flair makes it perfect for turning up with friends, and it’s a great pick for a driving soundtrack too.
Friendshipkingu gidora
King Giddra, the group that revolutionized Japan’s hip-hop scene.
This track, included on their album “The Final Weapon,” released in October 2002, sharply portrays the essence of friendship.
Riding over a hardcore beat, each member delivers storytelling-style verses about friendship, betrayal, and trust.
It also carries elements of social critique, resulting in a characteristically deep work that only King Giddra could produce.
It’s a song that conveys both the complexity of human relationships and the power of friendship that truly reveals its value in tough situations.
Highly recommended for those who want to reflect deeply on friendship or savor the feel of Japan’s 1990s underground hip-hop.
FRIEND (feat. Tomodachi)Shigemori Satomi
A hip-hop song that weaves the bonds of friendship over a breezy beat.
Released by Satomi Shigemori in July 2022, this track stands out for its lyrics that recount memories with a best friend of 13 years.
Playfully humorous word choices and references to contemporary topics make the song highly relatable.
Its inclusion of social media and trends also makes it approachable for younger listeners.
It’s a recommended track for anyone who values long-standing friendships or wants to reaffirm their bond with a best friend.
Each listen is sure to bring back memories with cherished friends.