[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.
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[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / All-Time Great Tracks (91–100)
Around My WayLupe Fiasco
Speaking of this intro, it has to be this song, right? It’s such a classic that I doubt anyone doesn’t know it.
No explanation needed—the more you listen, the more you want to keep listening.
It’s a timeless track in the hip-hop world.
The glowing eyes in the music video are intriguing, too.
Mixed PersonalitiesYNW Melly ft. Kanye West
A rising artist who, at just 19 years old at the time of release, achieved a collaboration with hip-hop heavyweight Kanye West.
In the past, he shot and killed YNW Juvy and YNW Sakchaser, members of his crew and longtime friends.
In interviews, he has confessed that he has multiple personalities within himself.
Suge (Yea Yea)Dababy
First off, it’s pronounced “Da-Baby.” I think anyone who watches his music videos will instantly feel it—he’s got the entertainer quality you’d expect from a comedian.
At first, people called him a one-hit wonder, but with each release and live performance, his talent gradually gained recognition.
There aren’t many rappers with a humorous, whimsical worldview who keep delivering hits.
I’m excited to hear more fun tracks from him in the future.
03′ Bonnie & Clyde (feat. Beyoncé Knowles)JAY-Z, Beyoncé
In today’s popular music scene, Jay-Z and Beyoncé could be called the ultimate power couple.
Released in 2002 as the lead single from Jay-Z’s album “The Blueprint 2: The Gift & The Curse,” ’03 Bonnie & Clyde is a duet the two recorded before they were married.
As the title suggests, the song is themed around Bonnie and Clyde, drawing inspiration from 2Pac’s “Me and My Girlfriend.” Jay-Z’s cool rap and Beyoncé’s languid, sultry vocals intertwine perfectly, making it an undisputed classic that even lets you feel their chemistry.
Be sure to check out the music video as well, which depicts the pair on the run in keeping with the song’s theme!
Empire State of MindJay Z
The king of the hip-hop world—calling him that wouldn’t be an exaggeration—is Jay-Z.
Since stepping into the spotlight in the ’90s, he has reigned at the top of the music industry.
His achievements are widely recognized; at the UK’s storied rock festival Glastonbury, he became the first hip-hop artist ever to headline.
By the way, his wife is none other than Beyoncé.
HIGHEST IN THE ROOMTravis Scott
The track starts off with a dark feel, but as it progresses, the piano and synthesizers come in dramatically, making you feel like you’re watching a film.
It’s a dope, slow-tempo song by American rapper Travis Scott with a heavy, weighty beat.
The low, powerful vocals and bass-driven production build the atmosphere, resulting in a punchy number.
YesterdayThe Black Eyed Peas
It lavishly samples classic hip-hop tracks.
I’ll never forget how shocked I was when this song first came out.
In the music video, they appear on each record’s jacket—a stylish touch.
Together with the MV, it’s a must for hip-hop fans.