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 (91–100)
Sōsōkyokutamada rooy
Hanaregumi? Actually: Artist from Dame-Rec and one of the best when it comes to freestyle, Enmado Kanroi? Wait—correct name is En’non? If unsure: Keep name as Kanroi.
Revised: An artist from Dame-Rec and one of the best at freestyle, Kanroi (En-Roi).
Watching a live performance filmed in nature could be a great way to enjoy the summer.
The scenery is beautiful and the live atmosphere is fantastic.
The way his rap fits perfectly even in a place like this is exactly what makes him so good.
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.
Sweet Wine (feat. Youth of Roots)BIM
Sweet Wine is a love story set against the theme of summer coastlines and sandy beaches.
It’s a track released by rapper BIM, featuring the reggae band Youth of Roots.
Kon Ryu’s powerful yet beautiful vocals intertwine with BIM’s free-flowing rap.
The band’s performance—driven by breezy rhythms and lyrics that evoke a variety of summer scenes—conveys a laid-back holiday mood.
Experience this chill sound that achieves a seamless crossover between hip-hop and reggae.
Runaway“E”qual
“E”qual has a style with a distinct rock vibe.
The look is cool, and the rap is powerful and fiery! The intense music video might just blow away that summer lethargy.
He’s one of the rappers representing Nagoya.
Fantastic 4DIORI a.k.a D-Originu
Shinpeita, the King of Freestylers best known for serving as a judge on Freestyle Dungeon, is dropping a rap with a rare flavor! It’s a track that seems cool without trying too hard.
This kind of effortless vibe is exactly what makes J-hip hop so good, isn’t it?
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.