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)
YOKAZEHentai Shinshi Kurabu
A modern and emotional track from Hentai Shinshi Club that lets youthful worries and anxieties dissolve in the night breeze.
Over a mellow beat crafted by GeG, the lyrics by VIGORMAN and WILYWNKA blend beautifully.
Resonating with young listeners—gentle at times, powerful at others—this message-driven song was released in April 2020 from their second EP, “HERO.” In July 2021, their performance on the YouTube channel THE FIRST TAKE drew major attention and sparked further buzz.
It’s a deeply moving song that many listeners reach for on summer nights, during drives, or in solitary moments—an exquisite track that strikes the heart.
Yoppa Rattadongurizu
Dongurizu’s playful track “Yoppa Ratta.” With humor-filled lyrics perfectly matched to a groovy beat, this song is sure to put listeners in a good mood.
Included on their June 2024 album “DONGRHYTHM,” it’s a great showcase of their musical style.
It’s the perfect tune for kicking back and relaxing, or for having a fun time with friends.
Why not make your summer even more enjoyable with Dongurizu’s music?
You Know What?benizakura
Rapper Benizakura from Okayama Prefecture explores themes of overcoming past hardships and the determination to start over.
This track features a powerful beat and deep emotional expression that fuses hip-hop, kayōkyoku, and blues.
Released on April 17, 2024, the song was used as an insert track in the film “Dame na Yatsu: Rapper Benizakura—A Comeback from Prison,” screened at the TBS Documentary Film Festival 2024.
His achievements since returning to life on the outside have been remarkable.
Be sure to check it out.
A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: classic J-hip hop tracks (81–90)
Summer Sweetz ～CIGAR ＆ LIQUOR～DS455
With its smooth, mellow sound, it might suit a summer twilight.
It’s a track by DS455, the hip-hop duo of Kayzabro and DJ PMX, and the title track of their third album released in 2004.
The laid-back rhythm pairs perfectly with an effortless, unforced flow.
It’s ideal for those moments when you want to take it easy while feeling the summer heat.
Seasons come and go, but this summer happens only once in your life.
“I’m going to make it the best summer ever”—this comfortable number stirs that feeling in your heart.
broad daylightZeebra
It’s a hip-hop track that feels like it seals in the temperature and atmosphere of summer as is.
It’s a song by MC Zeebra, also known as a member of the legendary hip-hop crew King Giddra, released in 1997 as his solo debut single.
The relaxed, effortless sound is striking.
Combined with the lyrics, you’ll find yourself slipping into a summer mood as you listen.
Somehow you end up wanting to do the same things as in the lyrics—take a shower, head out into the city… it just puts you in that vibe.
Fade OutS.l.a.c.k.&Ces2
When you want to spend a quiet summer, 5lack is the way to go! His laid-back vibe paired with tight, on-beat raps and a smooth vocal tone will impress any hip-hop fan.
At first it might sound simple, but his skills are actually top-tier!
one thousand percentKICK THE CAN CREW
KICK THE CAN CREW, a long-established hip-hop group that continues to showcase timeless talent, released “Sen Percent” in 2017—a refreshing hip-hop tune built around a sampled loop.
Its light and breezy vibe makes it the perfect track to listen to on a hot summer day.
