[Karaoke] A roundup of easy-to-sing Japanese rap songs
While the origins of Japanese hip-hop can be traced back to the 1980s, even if we take the 1990s—when hit songs emerged and began ranking on the Oricon charts—as the starting point, it already boasts a history of over 30 years.
Since the 2010s, influenced by TV programs like “Freestyle Dungeon,” rap has come to feel more familiar, especially among younger generations.
With that in mind, this article introduces a selection of classic Japanese rap tracks recommended for those who want to try singing Japanese rap at karaoke!
From the 1990s to the 2020s, you’ll find a wide range of songs—from catchy mega-hits to tracks highly regarded by hip-hop aficionados—so be sure to check them out.
- Rap songs you want to sing at karaoke—tracks everyone can sing together and get hyped
- Cool songs that will go over well at karaoke
- Recommended picks for karaoke! Easy-to-sing songs recommended for Gen Z
- A must-see for Gen Z men! Easy-to-sing songs by male artists for karaoke
- [For Men] Cool, Popular Songs That Impress at Karaoke
- Karaoke songs that are easy to sing and recommended for men of the Yutori generation
- [2025] A roundup of classic and popular tracks hip-hop beginners should listen to
- Cool hip-hop songs that sound great at karaoke | Tips for singing them too!
- Now karaoke isn’t scary! Easy-to-sing songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- A lineup of classics! Easy-to-sing Heisei-era songs, perfect for karaoke picks
- A Guide to Vocaloid Rap: A roundup of popular hip‑hop-style Vocaloid tracks
- A Must-See for Teen Girls! Easy-to-Sing Karaoke Songs
- A collection of cool songs that sound great when sung by women, originally male songs
[Karaoke] A collection of easy-to-sing Japanese rap songs (1–10)
Heart Dancingnobobyknows̟+
nobodyknows+’s signature song is a gem that brilliantly fuses hip-hop and J-pop.
Released as a single in May 2004 and included on that year’s album “Do You Know?”, it also earned them a spot on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The lyrics express the small joys found in everyday life and the positive energy that music brings.
With a chorus where a vivid melody line and rap intersect, it’s guaranteed to fire up any karaoke session.
In 2022, a one-take performance was released on the YouTube channel “THE FIRST TAKE,” racking up 10 million views in a month.
It’s a must-listen for anyone looking to free their heart through music.
Paradise BabyRIP SLYME
It’s a signature track by RIP SLYME that celebrates the freedom and passion of summer.
Centered on themes like beaches, sunshine, and romance, it captures the joy of making the most of the season.
With its upbeat melody and catchy chorus, it gives listeners a dose of positive energy.
Released in June 2002, the music video drew attention for featuring a member’s pet dog.
It’s the perfect song for summer drives, trips to the beach, BBQs, and other outdoor fun—and it’s guaranteed to be a hit at karaoke.
Packed with RIP SLYME’s charm, this track is also a great entry point to Japanese rap.
beautiful womanCHANMINA
Rapper Chanmina, who has drawn attention for her exceptional rap skills that fluidly switch between Japanese, English, and Korean—and is even dubbed the “Beyoncé of Nerima.” Her third single, “Bijin,” is a track whose powerful message has resonated especially with younger listeners.
Because the overall tempo is relaxed, it’s easy to follow the phrases, and the subtly rhymed lyrics feel great to perform.
However, be careful: if you don’t pay attention to dynamics and inflection, it won’t capture the original vibe.
[Karaoke] A Collection of Easy-to-Sing Japanese Rap Songs (11–20)
To Us Who Were Once GeniusesCreepy Nuts
A Creepy Nuts track that addresses life’s uncertainties and possibilities through rap.
Set to a jazzy beat, it looks back on past choices while singing about hope for the future.
Released in August 2020, it was also used as the theme song for a Teikyo Heisei University commercial.
Included on the album “To Us Who Were Once Geniuses,” it reached a peak of No.
5 on the Oricon Weekly Album Chart.
They also held a nationwide tour, including a show at the Nippon Budokan, captivating fans.
It’s a recommended song for those standing at a crossroads in life or anyone who wants to believe in their own potential.
Yukichi FukuzawaNinja We Made It.
Aiming to become “Japan’s coolest creative collective,” the music unit Ninja We Made It began their YouTube activities in 2020.
Their track Fukuzawa Yukichi, which blew up mainly on TikTok, hooks you with its addictive, comical lyrics.
The overall low-tone flow is fun to perform, but be careful—the intricately rising and falling melody can be hard to memorize.
Since the song is under two minutes long, it’s an easy pick for anyone who wants to try rapping at karaoke.
tone colorKREVA
This is one of KREVA’s signature songs, overlaying a deep love for music with feelings for a loved one.
It features a melodious track and simple, heartfelt lyrics that resonate with many listeners.
Released on September 8, 2004—dubbed “Kreva Day”—it became the best-selling work in his catalog.
The song was also used as the at-bat theme for Hanshin Tigers player Takashi Toritani.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves music, it’s easy to sing at karaoke and perfect for those trying rap for the first time.
Say Anything (feat. JP THE WAVY)LEX
LEX’s song, which celebrates limitless possibilities and expressions of love, is guaranteed to light up any karaoke session.
Centered on themes of living freely and material abundance, it portrays the excitement of romance and the sharing of special experiences.
Released in August 2021, the track became a major sensation, especially on TikTok, and went on to top the Billboard Japan Heatseekers Songs chart in September of the same year.
Featured on the album LOGIC, it solidified LEX’s popularity.
It’s a perfect pick for anyone who wants to get the crowd going at karaoke or express their feelings to the fullest.