A Guide to Vocaloid Rap: A roundup of popular hip‑hop-style Vocaloid tracks

DramaturgyPal♪

[Hatsune Miku × GUMI] Dramaturgy [Original Song]

Perhaps because of its philosophical lyrics, this is a cool Vocaloid rap that inevitably makes you ponder the meaning of the words.

Created by Pal♪—also known for releasing numerous works themed around birds—and published in 2015.

If you’re struggling with questions about your own purpose for existing, this might resonate with you.

YY23.exe

YY – ft.Hatsune Miku

It gives the quintessential impression of a Vocaloid rap.

The EDM-like track, which carries a sense of brightness, pairs perfectly with Hatsune Miku’s sparkling vocals.

It’s a piece by 23.

exe, known for a music style centered on dance music.

Released in 2019.

It’ll make you want to listen to it by the seaside in summer.

Kidoairakutask

Kidouairaku / Task

This track feels great with its funky rhythm and crisp guitar cutting.

It’s a song by the Vocaloid producer Task, also known for works like “Break the Endless Night.” Released in 2016, it features a relatively fast-tempo rap.

Thanks to the intricate arrangement, it never gets old.

The shouts in the rhythm-drop section are awesome, too.

Santa Muertewotaku

Santa Muerte / wotaku feat. Haru

It’s a track that carries a downbeat mood while packing a sharp message.

Composed by wotaku and released in June 2024, it depicts social issues and personal struggles from a unique perspective.

The contrast between the understated sound and the high-speed flow is striking.

Harui’s cool, chilly vocal tone is also captivating.

Since it tackles heavy themes like doubts about modern society and self-loathing, it’s perfect for when you’re in the mood to think deeply.

Revolution MomentSecret Piercing

Revolution Moment / Megurine Luka feat. KAFU, v flower

It’s a Vocaloid rap number that’s dynamic yet exudes a slightly ennui-laden vibe.

Created by Vocaloid producer Naisho no Pierce, also known for works like “Surechigai Kirchhoff,” it was released in 2023.

The way it stacks rhymes in each verse is insanely cool! Listening to it makes you want to rap along yourself.

There’s also a phrase that evokes the melody of “Kagome Kagome.” The whole piece is finished with high-level sophistication!

Viva HappyMitchie M

“Viva Happy,” a song by Mitchie M in which Hatsune Miku talks like a voice actress and raps.

A smash hit by 23.

exe, a sound-production pro known for working on a variety of tracks, including collaborations with Taiko no Tatsujin and Namie Amuro.

It’s a high-energy upper-tune that fires off relentless rhymes over a bright, upbeat sound.

The vocals were crafted by tuning Hatsune Miku to sound like a voice actor, giving the track a super cute vibe.

The album featuring this song has a cover illustration by Yoshiyuki Sadamoto of Neon Genesis Evangelion fame, making it a must-see for anime fans as well.

Perfect for when you need a boost of happiness!

ParryMiyamori Literature

Parry / Miyamori Bungaku feat. Kagamine Len, Kagamine Rin

A pop Vocaloid rap number that unfolds a unique worldview.

It’s a track by Vocaloid producer Miyamori Bungaku, who also worked on “kinghi jack yaku,” released in May 2024.

Kagamine Rin and Len deliver a duet that rides a lively rhythm.

Set to a Charleston-style sound, the lyrics convey a positive message that “life is a game.” Paired with colorful visuals in the music video, a vibrant, energetic world spreads out.

If you listen when you’re feeling down, it’s sure to give you a boost!