Cool hip-hop songs that sound great at karaoke | Tips for singing them too!
Hip-hop is now becoming established as one of the major genres in Japan.
You’re hearing it more often around town and on social media.
This time, we’ve picked out tracks that are especially cool to perform at karaoke.
The focus is on Japanese rap, but we’ve also included overseas tracks, so it’s recommended for fans of US hip-hop too.
We’ve also touched on how to perform the songs, so it’s a must-read for anyone who feels less confident about rapping.
Cool Hip-Hop to Sing at Karaoke | Tips for Singing, Too! (1–10)
doppelgängerCreepy Nuts
This track stands out with a four-on-the-floor, danceable beat.
Centered on themes of the multifaceted nature everyone carries and the struggle with oneself, it deftly captures the emotions of people living in modern society.
Its euphoric sound and interwoven rap layers create a worldview that further amplifies the fun of the piece.
Featured on the album “LEGION,” it was written in January 2025 as the theme song for the film “Under Ninja.” Nail the rapid-fire, rhyme-packed rap parts, and you’re guaranteed to get the crowd going.
Rep feat. MACCHOZORN
ZORN is a rapper whose piercing lyrics have won him nationwide popularity in Japan.
He used to have a more dangerous, edgy vibe, but lately his work has leaned toward fatherhood and more sentimental themes.
Among his tracks, a particularly cool one I recommend is “Rep feat.
MACCHO.” This song lets you experience ZORN’s old, thug-like aura and is crafted into a venom-tinged trap.
It’s not a fast-rap track, but the flow is quite challenging, so you’ll need a fair amount of practice to deliver it well.
In particular, ZORN’s verse demands a strong vocal quality—aim for a low register with plenty of drive and momentum.
Kawasaki DriftBAD HOP
BAD HOP is a crew that ranks among the most popular in today’s Japanese hip-hop scene.
People often say they copy the U.
S.
, but putting that aside, their way of life is undeniably real.
Many of you have probably been captivated by their authenticity as rappers.
Among their tracks, Kawasaki Drift is especially cool to sing at karaoke.
It’s a dark trap song that assumes the use of Auto-Tune, but since many karaoke systems now come with Auto-Tune features, you should be able to sing it without any issues.
BUDS MONTAGENidaram (Namidaruma)
Namatoura, now renowned as one of Japan’s leading hip-hop groups.
Many of you may have gotten hooked on their tracks after seeing them on NEET Tokyo, right? Speaking of Namatoura’s classic songs, it has to be “BUDS MONTAGE.” Lately, its beat has even been used in battle scenes, so I’m sure many of you are familiar with it.
Namatoura’s music has a lyrical side, so in terms of rapping difficulty, it’s relatively easy.
It’s easy to perform, but because the refined lyrics and track are outstanding, it can create a cool vibe when you sing it at karaoke.
Say Anything (feat. JP THE WAVY)LEX
Rapper LEX, known for his bright, standout personality.
The hit songs born from that character are all crafted to be upbeat and powerful, reflecting his humanity.
When it comes to LEX’s signature tracks, many people probably think of “Nandemo Ichatte (feat.
JP THE WAVY).” It’s a piece marked by results-oriented yet optimistic lyrics that feel quintessentially rapper-like, and it carries a laid-back, cool vibe throughout.
There’s a high-pitched rap section in the middle verse, so be mindful when singing that part.
free spaceGadoro
Riding on a fast-paced beat, this signature track by GADORO humorously portrays life and personal values.
It compellingly sings about an authentic way of living, positively contrasting ideals with reality.
Featured on the album TAKANABE, the song teams up with producer CHIVA from BUZZER BEATS, capturing listeners with a pleasant sense of release.
The music video features Machiura Pink, with direction by ISSEI—both are must-see elements of the work’s visual world.
Since its release in April 2024, the song has drawn significant attention and is perfect for anyone who wants to relax and live true to themselves.
Selfishralph
“Selfish (Prod.
Double Clapperz)” is a cool hip-hop track by rapper ralph, crafted with producer Double Clapperz, with whom he shares a close relationship.
From the intro, a chant-like choral phrase repeats and pulls you in deeper the more you listen.
Layered on top, ralph’s bass-heavy rap hits with machine-gun intensity—absolutely irresistible.
The track’s distinctive groove is the key, so if you focus on that while performing, it’ll go great!