The Sabukaru Guide To Japan’s Wave Of Emerging Rap
Hip-hop has been around in Japan since the 1980s.
It is said that the designer and musician Hiroshi Fujiwara started the J-hip-hop wave by bringing back American rap records from his visits overseas. Back then, the Western genre had a heavy influence on its Japanese counterpart, and Nippon native artists would heavily imitate American rap icons. Nowadays, this genre has found more fluidity and authenticity, finding a spot in the world as a Japanese metropolitan subculture.
Although it may not be as heard as K-rap, which could be considered its Eastern competitor on a global level, J-rap is very much influential in today’s youth culture. Nujabes, SEEDA, and KOHH can now be considered legends of Japan’s hip-hop scene, expanding their impact overseas.
However, the recent scene has welcomed new emerging names, and today’s artists deliver a punch of talent. Sabukaru has curated a non-extensive list of our favorite Japanese rappers.
kZm [pronounced ka-zu-ma] is a rapper and part of the YENTOWN Japanese hip-hop label, along with MonyHorse and PETZ. He’s best known for his song “Dream Chaser” featuring BIM and produced by Chaki Zulu.
A rapper of Japanese and Colombian descent, Hideyoshi reached a global audience with his drill hit “Majinahanashi”, with a near-instant 7M views on YouTube. Along with his crew Tokyo Young Vision, he has reached some recognition within Tokyo’s youth and hip-hop community.
Along with previously mentioned Hideyoshi, Young Dalu is part of the Tokyo Young Vision label. A rapper with Filipino background, Young “D” is known for his mix of upbeat rhythm and his penchant for pop-punk.
A rising star from the jungle of SoundCloud, Who28 is known for his mix of punk rock and emo rap in Tokyo’s hip-hop scene. Recognizable by his grungy look and melancholic lyrics, he has previously collaborated with tokyovitamin as well.
A powerhouse when it comes to talent and innovation, Tohji quickly gained popularity thanks to his unique style and vision. With a mix of Y2K cyberspace and lyrical darkness, his music videos are as entrancing as his music. He’s also part of the Mall Boyz crew.
BIM is part of CREATIVE DRUG STORE. He produces laid-back, feel-good songs exuding authenticity. Recognized for his flow, this rapper has been defining the Nippon rap scene for the last few years.
Jubee is a multifaceted artist. Along with BIM, he’s in the CREATIVE DRUG STORE crew, and he has worked on multiple projects with Tokyo’s underground giants like Jun Inagawa and GUCCIMAZE. He’s best known for his song “Joyride” featuring SARA-J.
He is probably the most popular and fast-rising rapper in today’s Japanese rap scene. Known for his flamboyant fashion and catchy songs, LEX has been active in the community since the age of 14. He also won the GQ Japan “Men of the Year Breakthrough Artist Award” of 2021.
Female rappers in Japan are less seen than their Western counterparts. However, Awich has been shaping the game as one of the most popular hip-hop artists in Japan. She’s also part of YENTOWN, and is known for her powerhouse hit “NEBUTA” featuring kZm.
A rap group of 16 members, KANDYTOWN has been making waves since 2012. Known for their jazzy beats with an old-school hip-hop sound, the members of the group are multi-faceted, being DJs, actors, models, and designers.
Chill would best describe this duo. Composed of Nene and Ryugo Ishida, their 70s-freedom-meets-outer-space music and aesthetic have made them gain a lot of popularity in the Nippon rap scene. Their breakthrough hit was “Dippin’ Shake” in 2017.
About the Author:
Mizuki Khoury
Born in Montreal, based in Tokyo. Sabukaru’s senior writer and works as an artist under Exit Number Five.
