A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: classic tracks of Japanese hip-hop
When you think of Japanese rap summer songs, does any track come to mind?
Even listeners who don’t usually listen to hip-hop probably know signature songs by popular groups and tracks by legendary artists who’ve led the scene—there are so many to choose from.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of hip-hop tracks you’ll want to play as summer approaches.
Alongside timeless classics, there are plenty of great picks from artists who’ve been getting attention recently.
We hope you discover some amazing songs here.
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A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: Classic J-Hip Hop tracks (71–80)
Shake Dat Ass feat. AISHAAnarchy
If you’re looking for a summer-style hype track, I recommend “Shake Dat Ass,” a collaboration between ANARCHY and AISHA.
It’s a pure summer tune you can enjoy with your mind switched off—just lyrics all about men and women! Lately, complex, artsy lyrics and sounds are trending, but it’s nice to come back to a track like this once in a while.
Honey Bunnychelmico
“It’s so hot I don’t feel like doing anything…” This track is perfect for that mood.
It’s by chelmico, a female rap duo known for hits like “Easy Breezy,” and it’s included on their second mini-album, EP, released in 2017.
The song was made around the feeling of “not wanting to do anything,” and you can feel that lazy vibe in both the track and the flow.
Strangely enough, it’s comforting.
Hit play while you lounge around in an air-conditioned room.
We GOKetsumeishi
Inspired by the work of seasoned veterans, a new employee takes a hard look at themselves and takes a step forward.
This is a rousing anthem that portrays a fresh coming-of-age story.
It’s filled with a warmth that lifts your spirits and gives you a strong push whenever you’re tempted to compare yourself to others and feel discouraged, or when you’re about to stand still.
Released digitally in advance in January 2024, this song is included on the album “Ketsuno-Polis 13.” Isn’t it the perfect track for the starting line of anyone facing a new challenge and feeling just a little hesitant?
LAST SUMMER SONGhyakuzoku
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at the end of summer, with a bittersweet yet beautiful melody that lingers in your heart.
The words spun by Mukade gently portray sentimental feelings for a season that has passed and important emotions that remained unspoken, resonating softly with the listener’s heart.
Released in September 2024, this song distills the charm of Mukade as a solo artist, created after he won the 15th BAZOOKA!!! High School RAP Championship in April 2019 and continued his energetic activities with works like the mini-album “Orange.” Give it a listen at a sunset beach or in those moments when memories suddenly come flooding back.
Taking a NapSALU
For those moments on a summer evening when you want to sink into a slightly sentimental mood, I recommend a track by SALU.
Released in December 2011, it features a grand, dramatic beat crafted by producer BACHLOGIC that truly resonates.
SALU’s melodic, emotional rap conveys a sincere gaze toward everyday life and society, and the more you listen, the more you’ll be drawn into his world.
The song is also included on his debut album, “In My Shoes,” and you can feel the heat of his solo show at Shibuya WWW in November 2012 through the video work “IN MY SHOW –2012–.” Give it a listen on a quiet summer night alone or during time spent reflecting on yourself.
It’s sure to create a special moment.
Come DownYo-Sea · MuKuRo
Like a breeze from Okinawa, this track by Yo-Sea and MuKuRo feels perfect for your summer playlist.
Yo-Sea’s sweet, wistful vocals and MuKuRo’s rhythmic flow layer over HOLLY’s wave-evoking production, wrapping you in a sense of calm the moment you press play.
Originally included on the compilation album “098RADIO vol.1 Hosted by Awich” in March 2023, the song later received a remix featuring Awich herself, released on “098RADIO vol.2 Hosted by Awich” in August 2024.
Whether you’re chilling by the beach at sunset or heading out for a drive, it’s guaranteed to set the mood just right.
If you want to soak in Okinawa’s vibes, this is a sound we highly recommend.
ROOM VACATION feat. Tsubaki & Emi OkamotoDJ HASEBE
A three-way collaboration by DJ HASEBE, Tsubaki, and Emi Okamoto.
Just like the title “ROOM VACATION,” it sings about a summer day spent at home.
Over a smooth, slightly funky track that evokes a hip-hop-style summer tune, Tsubaki delivers a languid rap, while Emi Okamoto’s cool vocals float on top.
This fresh trio’s new-era summer tune will add a sweet-and-sour, refreshing touch to your everyday life.
