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 tracks in Japanese hip-hop (31–40)
One TemperatureMondo Grosso
A one-of-a-kind track produced by Shinichi Osawa of MONDO GROSSO that cools down those tropical nights.
It’s a bit tricky to pin strictly under hip-hop, but it definitely counts as J-rap.
Its standout feature is the powerful flow of Takeshi Osumi, aka Big-O—modern and urban, yet old-school.
A key figure from the early days of Japanese hip-hop, he was active as a member of SHAKKAZOMBIE, then paused his activities, returning to the studio for the first time in ten years with this work.
RHYME, who would later team up as RHYME SO, also joins on vocals, adding color to the track.
eye to eyeNakamura Kaho × Kan Sano
A collaboration track by two next-generation artists: singer-songwriter Kaho Nakamura and trackmaker Kan Sano.
The sound leans more toward R&B than hip-hop, yet it shares a kinship with today’s hip-hop as well.
It’s stylish and pop, yet somehow nostalgic—perfect for summer, isn’t it?
I Think I’m FallingKOHH
“I Think I’m Falling” is a summer tune by KOHH released in 2019.
While based on a trap-style rhythm, it layers Future Bass-like synths for a very stylish finish.
Its laid-back tempo makes it perfect for relaxing, too.
The summer-themed music video, set mainly by the sea, is also a must-see.
A Premonition of BeginningsKetsumeishi
Even people who don’t usually listen to hip-hop probably know Ketsumeishi, and their tracks lean toward J-pop, so they’re easy to listen to.
Their song “Hajimari no Yokan” is a summer tune released in 2017.
Thanks to its catchy chorus melody, it should go down smoothly even for hip-hop beginners who don’t normally listen to rap.
T.U.B.E.chinza DOPENESS
The tropical vibe of this track heightens the anticipation for summer! The creator is the humorous and unique Chinza DOPENESS.
It’s the title track from a mini-album released in 2013.
With lyrics that say, “Forget the busyness of the city and fully enjoy the summer,” just reading them makes you want to head out somewhere.
The chorus lines are catchy, and the interplay of rhythm and flow is a joy.
Its upbeat feel makes it perfect as BGM for summer drives! Be sure to add it to your playlist!
A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: Classic J-hip-hop tracks (41–50)
good boy, bad boy feat SEEDA, KREVAKumai Gorō
A collaboration track between underground representative SEEDA and two artists active on the front line of the overground scene! The lyrics themselves are bittersweet, but it’s a masterpiece that genuinely lifts you up.
The melody line is catchy yet somehow tinged with a sense of melancholy.
HEAT ISLAND feat.FIRE BALLRHYMESTER
It’s a cool hip-hop number that bowls you over with its fiery, insistent energy.
This track is a collaboration between RHYMESTER and FIRE BALL, released in 2006 as RHYMESTER’s ninth single.
The lyrics and flow ignite your Yamato spirit and crank up the summer heat even more! Give it a listen when you need the power to survive the sweltering season.
It really gets the crowd going, so it’s also great for karaoke.