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 (41–50)
SummertimeRIRI, KEIJU, Kobukuro Nariaki
From the very first crash of waves, this song instantly puts you in a sophisticated summer mood.
Created in 2019 as the CM song for Shiseido’s ANESSA, it was produced by singer-songwriter Nariaki Obukuro and features a collaboration with R&B singer RIRI and rapper KEIJU.
While it has an ethereal atmosphere, the lyrics gently resonate as they sing about the sparkle of everyday life and the flutter of romance.
The simple beat is also cool, with KEIJU’s lyrical, slick rap answered by RIRI’s vocals.
A roundup of Japanese rap to listen to in summer: Classic tracks of Japanese hip-hop (51–60)
Summer Film’s feat. Kubo Takai, Sora-neRin Oto
A track where three next-generation rappers collaborated in 2019.
With its laid-back beat and relaxed vibe, this slow-tempo song lets each of their charms shine through.
The flow of the rap is fire—Kai Kubota takes the opening, Rinon handles the middle, and Sorane closes it out.
It’s also interesting how the lyrics quote lines from various songs, like Sorane’s “Room 103” and KREVA’s “Neiro.” The lyrics, which could fit all kinds of love, perfectly match the open, summery atmosphere.
jamSuzuki Mamiko feat. iri
Rapper Mamiko Suzuki, who is also active as a member of the female rap duo chelmico, puts her cute looks to good use across various media.
Her 2021 release “Jam” is a track that brings comfort to a leisurely summer.
The lo-fi-tinged sound paired with her rhythmic flow is cool, and many listeners will relate to the lyrics that depict precious moments spent with friends and lovers.
It’s a soothing summer song, further enriched by the soft choral work sung together with singer-songwriter iri.
Summer Symphony Ver.2Sogabe Keiichi ft. PSG
Keiichi Sokabe’s classic “Summer Symphony Ver.2,” featuring PSG, stands out for its chill rap vibe.
As the title suggests, it’s a song about the joys of summer.
Tracks with this kind of rhyme scheme are often high-energy, but this one intentionally leans into a mellow atmosphere.
My recommended verse is, of course, 5lack’s part.
The other verses are great too, but his flow is a clear cut above the rest.
Definitely give it a listen!
12cm Shoulders feat. Baby Dee Beatst-Ace
Rapper t-Ace, who calls himself a “scumbag” and runs a YouTube channel called “Channel Kuzu,” released a summer tune in 2019 titled “12cm no Kata,” whose lyrics—based on real experiences—became a hot topic.
There’s something a little timid and cute about how he feels at ease resting on his girlfriend’s 12-centimeter-wide shoulder.
The music video, which is set mainly at the beach, is also a must-see.
My Summer Vacation feat. Bobby BellwoodZEN-LA-ROCK
If you’re looking for a summer tune that’ll get you hyped, I recommend “My Summer Vacation,” a collaboration between ZEN-LA-ROCK and Bobby Bellwood.
As the title suggests, the lyrics all revolve around summer vacation, so just listening to it will definitely make you feel the summer vibes.
Even if you’ve already graduated from school, it’ll probably bring back memories of your own summer breaks.
Twilight Summer feat. Scha Dara Parr & PUSHIMHASE-T
Music producer HASE-T, who has led the Japanese reggae scene as a DJ and track maker.
As part of his 20th anniversary production project, the single “Yugure Summer feat.
Scha Dara Parr & PUSHIM” likely stirred the hearts of many fans with its very title, signaling a collaboration with Scha Dara Parr and PUSHIM.
A lyrical melody riding on a buoyant off-beat and catchy rap will liven up the atmosphere in your car while driving.
It’s an emotional number with a summery ensemble that feels wonderfully comfortable.
