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[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
Hip-hop hadn’t been very popular in Japan for a long time, but it’s recently started getting attention, thanks in part to the spread of MC battles.
That said, even if people know recent tracks, many might not be familiar with the older ones.
So this time, we’ve picked out some classic hip-hop tracks recommended for those listeners.
We’ve mainly chosen songs from the 1980s to the 2000s, so you can also get a sense of hip-hop’s history.
Please take your time and enjoy.
[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP: Timeless Masterpieces (1–10)
Shimmy Shimmy YaOl’ Dirty Bastard
The rapper known by multiple names—ODB, Big Baby Jesus, and Dirt McGirt—Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
He passed away in 2004 from an overdose, but the music he left behind is still loved today.
One of his iconic tracks is Shimmy Shimmy Ya.
It’s a quintessential hardcore hip-hop piece with outstanding impact and replay value.
Lose YourselfEminem
When it comes to the greatest hip-hop tracks of the 2000s, Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” is undoubtedly one that comes to mind.
Released in 2002, the song was used as the theme for the film 8 Mile, which portrays a semi-autobiographical slice of Eminem’s life.
The lyrics, themed around the Pied Piper of Hamelin, are striking, and both the flow and the production are exceptionally refined—arguably perfect as a hip-hop work.
Be sure to check it out.
Hit ‘Em Up2Pac
When talking about hip-hop, the West Coast vs.
East Coast rivalry is indispensable.
2Pac is a legendary rapper representing the West Coast, and he left behind numerous classics.
Among them, the one I especially recommend is “Hit ’Em Up.” It’s a track that fiercely criticizes The Notorious B.
I.
G.
, who represents the East Coast, and it became a global hit.
If you want to understand the beef between the West and East Coasts, this is an essential work—be sure to check it out.
Straight Outta ComptonN.W.A
N.
W.
A, the legendary hip-hop group representing the West Coast.
Though they’ve since disbanded, each member has gone on to succeed in various fields, including as rappers, music producers, actors, and film directors.
N.
W.
A left behind many classic tracks, but the one I especially recommend is Straight Outta Compton.
It’s one of their signature works, and a film of the same title was also produced.
It’s an essential work for understanding the history of hip-hop, so be sure to check it out.
Still Not a Player ft. JoeBig Pun
Big Pun, the legendary rapper who commanded immense popularity in New York’s underground scene.
His rise was meteoric: as his career progressed, he drew even more attention and achieved major success, including a Grammy nomination for his debut album.
Sadly, he passed away in 2000 due to complications from obesity.
One of his iconic tracks is “Still Not a Player” featuring Joe.
With the classic R&B singer Joe on the track, it’s crafted to be very accessible and easy to listen to.
JuicyThe Notorious B.I.G.
The rapper representing the East Coast, The Notorious B.
I.
G.
His life-or-death beef with 2Pac, the rapper representing the West Coast, is indispensable when talking about hip-hop history.
Even though it ended up leaving lingering bad blood between the East and West Coasts to this day, his music itself is highly acclaimed.
Among his works, the particularly popular track is Juicy.
Wrapped in an overall pop vibe, it’s put together in a very catchy way.
Break Ya NeckBusta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes, a rapper who debuted in 1996 and is still active today.
With roots in Jamaica, you can feel the fiery vibes of dancehall reggae in his flow.
One of his classic tracks is Break Ya Neck.
While the hot energy and distinctive production tend to grab attention, the real charm of this song is, above all, his high level of skill.
If you listen closely, you’ll notice the rap lines are extremely complex.