A Guide to Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics
Hip-hop has been one of the defining genres of the scene since the 1980s, loved all around the world.
When it comes to hip-hop’s most distinctive feature, it’s got to be rap.
This time, I’d like to break down the raps from classic tracks that became massive hits in the hip-hop scene.
We’ve selected from a wide range of styles, from old school to trap, the modern trend.
There are also a few lesser-known gems in the mix, so heads should definitely check it out!
- [Hip-Hop Classics] Timeless HIPHOP / Golden Oldies
- [US] Great Hip-Hop Classic
- Western Hip-Hop Popularity Rankings [2025]
- A 90s rapper. An artist who was active during the golden age of US hip-hop.
- Popular overseas rappers. Recommended Western/English-language rappers.
- [Western Music] A landmark masterpiece in hip-hop history! A fundamental album you should know
- Stylish hip-hop! A roundup of classic albums in Western jazzy hip-hop
- [Latest] Trends in Western Hip-Hop Music [2025]
- Popular Hip-Hop: Western Music Artist Rankings [2025]
- Stylish Western music: Chic hidden gems that only the in-the-know recognize make an appearance!
- [Western music] Classic upbeat hip-hop tracks
- [2025] A roundup of classic and popular tracks hip-hop beginners should listen to
- A classic of Mexican hip hop and Chicano rap
Recommendation of Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Classics (11–20)
Ni**as In ParisJAY Z, Kanye West
For those who aren’t very familiar with hip-hop, when you think of a Western rapper, you might picture Jay-Z, who performs “Ni**as In Paris.” He’s the highest-earning rapper in the world and has also succeeded as an entrepreneur.
His raps let you feel that overwhelming sense of success and composure.
Another part of his appeal is his choice of beats.
Since he’s active as a producer as well, it’s no surprise his sensibilities there are outstanding.
Ms. JacksonOutKast
OutKast is a hip-hop duo that enjoyed massive success from the 1990s to the early 2000s.
Unlike typical hip-hop, they blended genres like rock and electronica with classic Black music such as funk and soul, earning them a strong following among heads.
One of their signature tracks is Ms.
Jackson—a song notable for its funky, melodic flow.
It’s a classic that even newcomers to hip-hop can enjoy with ease!
X Gon’ Give It To YaDMX
DMX, a rapper who earned respect from many heads for his powerful voice and skillful style.
Compared to Japanese rap, overseas rap often rhymes only part of the consonants, but DMX is an exception—his rhyming approach is closer to Japanese rap.
If you like the rhyme schemes common in Japanese rap, his music might be irresistible.
“X Gon’ Give It To Ya” is one of his signature tracks, showcasing his trademark, hard-hitting, forceful flow.
Face Off (feat. Joey Cool, King Iso & Dwayne Johnson)Tech N9ne
Tech N9ne is a rapper known for his overwhelming skills.
While he’s a famous rapper, I think he’s still relatively minor in Japan.
His appeal, above all, lies in his skill.
His rapid-fire fastest rap is among the best in the world, and there are no gaps in his rhymes or flow.
In “Face Off (feat.
Joey Cool, King Iso & Dwayne Johnson),” which features many rappers, his skills stand out even more.
WoahLil Baby
If we’re talking about the most prominent rapper of 2020, Lil Baby is surely the first name that comes to mind.
His track Woah is one of his signature works, released in 2019.
This song was the catalyst for his rise to fame, which makes perfect sense given how polished it is.
Trap music can often lack variation, but this track adds crisp accents to the flow.
Definitely give it a listen.
MONTEROLil Nas X
Lil Nas X stands out in the contemporary hip-hop scene.
He’s a rapper who has come out as gay, and he brings that identity boldly to the forefront in his music and live performances.
MONTERO is one of his signature works, delivering hard-hitting lyrics about the importance of living true to yourself.
With its melodic rap style, it’s enjoyable even for those who aren’t familiar with hip-hop.
Recommendation of Western Rap: Introducing Legendary Masterpieces (21–30)
It’s TrickyRun-D.M.C.
Run-D.
M.
C.
are known as pioneers of mixture rock—a blend of rock music and hip-hop.
Although they went on hiatus in 2002, their popularity remains immense, and they’re still loved by many heads in Japan.
One of their classic tracks is It’s Tricky, which, true to its title, experiments with a then-tricky musical style and flow.
Be sure to check it out.