Japanese Old School Hip Hop

Japanese old school hip hop, emerging in the 1990s, is characterized by its jazzy, laid-back beats, often incorporating traditional Japanese instruments and soulful, atmospheric soundscapes. This genre evolved from the country's early exposure to American hip hop, blended with local flavors and sensibilities. During its peak in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it became a cultural phenomenon, particularly among Tokyo's youth, offering a unique voice for self-expression and social commentary. Drawing from jazz, funk, and soul, Japanese old school hip hop distinguished itself through its relaxed tempo, introspective lyrics, and eclectic sampling. Notably, it also drew inspiration from traditional Japanese music, setting it apart from its Western counterparts. This genre played a significant role in shaping Japan's urban music landscape, influencing subsequent styles and cementing its place in global hip hop history.

Latest Japanese Old School Hip Hop Release
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SKILL TEST - feat. DABO, Charlu
Single - Released August 15, 2024
Top Artists Spotify Logo
Nujabes
SEEDA
SCHA DARA PARR
DJ KRUSH
RHYMESTER
TOKONA-X
Top Playlists
Mellow Beats 2 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artists
Thievery Corporation Top Radio 1 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artist
Jazz Rap 1 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artist
Wax Tailor Top Radio 1 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artist
Chillwork 1 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artist
Jazz Hop 1 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artist

RecentMusic users are tracking 19 Japanese Old School Hip Hop artists for new releases, and have access to the full timeline of 284 releases .

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  1. August 15, 2024
  2. August 14
  3. May 20
  4. May 17
  5. April 24
  6. February 21
  7. November 22, 2023
  8. October 18
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  10. October 6
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  12. September 16
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  14. September 7
  15. August 31
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  17. August 11
  18. July 7
  19. June 21
  20. June 14
  21. June 5
  22. May 26
  23. April 28
  24. April 12
  25. April 5
  26. March 6
  27. February 23
  28. February 10
  29. December 10, 2022
  30. December 2
  31. November 12
  32. October 29
  33. August 31
  34. July 20
  35. July 13
  36. July 6
  37. July 1
  38. May 25
  39. April 23
  40. April 22
  1. February 21, 2024
  2. October 18, 2023
  3. October 12
  4. October 6
  5. August 31
  6. June 21
  7. December 10, 2022
  8. July 20
  9. April 23
  10. August 31, 2021
  11. August 25
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    M%O
    9 tracks
  12. July 28
  13. July 7
  14. June 11
  15. April 28
  16. November 25, 2020
  17. July 3
  18. March 18
  19. February 5
  20. December 11, 2019
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    GEMZ
    16 tracks