Recommended hip-hop/rap

[Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies

Former vocal coach specializing in Western musicRyo
Under the theme of “vocal skills that stand up on the world stage,” I have experience teaching as an online vocal coach specializing in Western music, and I usually listen to genres like nuevo flamenco, bolero, canzone, and R&B. In my teens, I questioned the idea that “foreign music equals English,” and started exploring songs from around the world. My commentary is characterized by a unique perspective shaped by listening to music of every genre, in every language, from every country. I mainly cover world music, so be sure to check it out!

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 (121–130)

Never Surrender2Pac

2PAC – Never Surrender [MOTIVATION]

Never Surrender2Pac

Meaning “never surrender,” Never Surrender is a hip-hop tune that’s perfect for a sports day where everyone strives toward their goals.

With its strong impact, this track is recommended for those who find ordinary selections unsatisfying.

The orchestral performance is also highly energetic—just listening might raise your heart rate.

Since today’s junior high school students are familiar with hip-hop, I think a track by 2Pac, a West Coast legend, will go over well.

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No Problem feat. 2 Chainz & Lil WayneChance The Rapper

Chance the Rapper ft. 2 Chainz & Lil Wayne – No Problem (Official Video)

No Problem feat. 2 Chainz & Lil WayneChance The Rapper

One rapper who has been rapidly rising to prominence in recent years is Chance the Rapper.

He originally released his self-made mixtapes on the internet, where they caught fire and earned him widespread attention, making him a true symbol of the internet generation.

Musically, he flexibly incorporates sounds from genres far from traditional hip-hop—such as indie rock and electronic—which may well be a product of a generation that listens freely to whatever music they like.

There’s no doubt he’ll continue to grow into an even bigger star.

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BothGucci Mane feat. Drake

Gucci Mane – Both (feat. Drake) [Official Audio]

BothGucci Mane feat. Drake

A collaboration between American rapper Gucci Mane and Canadian rapper Drake.

Released as a single in 2017 from the 10th album, The Return of East Atlanta Santa.

The track was produced by Southside and Metro Boomin.

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T-ShirtMigos

Migos – T-Shirt [Official Video]

T-ShirtMigos

A song by the American hip-hop group Migos that samples D4L’s 2005 track “I’m Da Man.” It might be interesting to think about what “T-Shirt” means.

It’s a hidden gem with deep ties to street culture.

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[Hip-Hop Classics] Standard HIPHOP / Timeless Masterpieces (131–140)

Worth ItYK Osiris

YK Osiris – Worth It (Official Video)

Worth ItYK Osiris

Released on February 28, 2019, this track became a huge hit! It’s a distinctive song whose music video opens with a paparazzi-like camera angle.

YK Osiris is being bombarded with questions from reporters.

The song centers on relationships with women.

Its biggest appeal lies in the straightforward lyrics and flow.

While it doesn’t employ many new techniques, it seems to convey its message honestly.

Very favorable impression.

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Relationship feat. FutureYoung Thug

Young Thug – Relationship (feat. Future) [Official Music Video]

Relationship feat. FutureYoung Thug

In recent years, a genre called trap has become popular in the hip-hop scene.

Characterized by hard-hitting beats and synth sounds, trap is often described as club-oriented hip-hop, and one of its leading figures is Young Thug.

In “Relationship,” he collaborated with fellow trap star Future, resulting in a major hit.

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BasketballKurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow – Basketball (Official Music Video)

BasketballKurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow, one of the defining rappers of the ’80s, hails from New York.

His tightly rhymed style and disco-funk tracks embody the very early days of hip-hop, and listening now actually feels fresh again.

Apparently, the drum sound on this track even includes the sound of a basketball being dribbled in the studio, mixed right in!

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