When looking at the broad landscape of Japanese Hip-Hop, distinct styles have organically developed, each shaped by the regional culture and history of its respective city. Lying far to the southwest, the island of Okinawa—with its unique historical background and cultural environment distinct from the mainland—has cultivated a compelling hip-hop scene all its own, carving out a truly unique space within the Japanese rap world.

This vibrant scene has produced artists who now stand firmly in the mainstream of Japanese Hip-Hop, including Awich, Tsubaki, and OZworld, among others. In this Japanese Rap Special Feature, we dive deep into this unique territory, introducing ten hand-picked rappers from Okinawa. Get ready to explore the distinct sonic tapestry woven on this southern island.

1. Syuto (柊人)

The Okinawan lyrical rap poet Syuto has captured the attention of the Japanese music scene. He is highly skilled at using honest, straightforward lyrics and a sincere vocal delivery to depict the unvarnished reality of everyday life and the deepest, most genuine emotions of the human heart.

2Following the release of his breakthrough track "Sukinakoto" (好きなこと, Doing What I Love) in 2021, Syuto resonated deeply with listeners through lyrics that closely mirrored the emotional landscape of the younger generation. He actively collaborates with numerous Okinawan-based musicians, including prominent Japanese rappers like Awich and CHICO CARLITO, seamlessly blending island culture, soul, and genuine emotion into his music. This has cemented his place as one of the most representative voices in the contemporary Japanese music scene.

Subsequently, he has participated in high-profile projects such as Red Bull RASEN and THE FIRST TAKE, demonstrating an undeniable presence defined by powerful live energy and a distinct flow. (On a side note, we highly recommend checking out his recent appearance on Red Bull 64 Bars; it not only highlights his already notable singing ability but also reveals a surprisingly strong rap foundation.)

Furthermore, Syuto recently released his brand new EP, Arinomama (ありのまま, As Is/The Way It Is), a collection of genuinely warm and heartfelt tracks. The EP shares its name with his highly acclaimed solo live performance series, which has toured various locations across Japan. This time, as part of the 098 OKINAWA DAY series of events, he will bring his full band setup to make his debut on the Billboard Live TAIPEI stage on December 5th, recreating this deeply soulful live experience.

柊人 - 好きなこと Remix feat. Awich & CHOUJI

柊人 prod. by Leofeel｜Red Bull 64 Bars

2. Awich

The "Queen of Japanese Rap," Awich, previously introduced in the Japanese Rap Special Feature: Introduction segment, stands as one of Okinawa's most iconic representative rappers. For her foundational background, readers are encouraged to refer to the preceding article in this series. For this entry, we will focus more deeply on the specific connection between Awich and her Okinawan roots.

Given her background of studying in the U.S., the culture of Hip-Hop—an African American art form—takes on a potentially more complex meaning when viewed through the Okinawan context. After decades of U.S. military occupation, Okinawa was similarly rife with racial discrimination common in the American mainland. Okinawans living in this environment could potentially share a sense of empathy with African American service members, who also faced discrimination. Awich understands this dynamic; in fact, she grew up within a Black community that comprehended the deeper structure of discrimination inherent in the concept of "Okinawa within Japan."

Therefore, the hip-hop Awich delivers is an authentic voice, naturally nurtured on the unique soil of Okinawa, born from a complex history and a profound sense of shared experience (kyōkan).

What she embodies is that inherent Okinawan "resilience"—the determination to confront the memories of war and occupation, striving not to become the problem itself, but actively seeking the solution. This complex sentiment is palpable in singles like "Revenge" and "Queendom." The vengeance she speaks of, and the interwoven love and hate she expresses, are all actions taken in pursuit of "Love and Freedom"—for Okinawa, against the structure of discrimination, and for all women.

Awich, 唾奇, OZworld, CHICO CARLITO - RASEN in OKINAWA (Prod. Diego Ave)

Awich - Revenge

3. Tsubaki (唾奇)

"Writing rap is like writing poetry"—this sentiment is a common appraisal among many fans of Tsubaki. As the critique suggests, Tsubaki's music is constantly brimming with spirituality, poetic depth, and a profound understanding of life and existence. His lyrics are arguably his most celebrated weapon. Paired with his voice, which is simultaneously gentle yet unflinchingly candid, he possesses the rare ability to sing his way straight into the deepest reaches of the listener's heart.

Tsubaki first gained widespread recognition through his collaborative album Jasmine with renowned music producer Sweet William. Following this, he released his first substantial solo album, -Tao- (道), and most recently, his new album Camellia this year. Over the years, he has firmly established himself as one of the most representative "Mellow-style Rappers" (Mellow-kei Rapper) not only in Okinawa but across Japan.

Tsubaki's musical style frequently integrates elements of Lo-fi, Jazz, Soul, and R&B. His lyrics explore themes of daily life, love, loneliness, his hometown of Okinawa, and the struggles of humanity. His work possesses immense power beneath its gentleness, making it perfect for providing warmth and companionship during late nights, moments of solitude, or when feeling weary. (The editor often quietly listens to Tsubaki's music late at night, too!)

In addition to his numerous collaborations with local Okinawan artists, Tsubaki has continually aimed for greater heights in recent years. Coinciding with the release of his new album this year, he also announced that he will be performing at the prestigious Nippon Budokan stage by the end of the year.

As a notable anecdote, his new album's single, "Ghost," was specifically filmed in Taiwan. We encourage everyone to check out the music video to further familiarize yourselves with Tsubaki's music!

DJ RYOW『all green feat. 唾奇』

唾奇 - Ghost Prod.hokuto

4. OZworld

With his signature cane, nose ring, braided hairstyle, and flamboyant makeup—OZworld is an artist whose very presence makes a profound and lasting impression on the audience.

In contrast to the Okinawan rappers previously introduced, OZworld often incorporates elements unique to the new generation into his music: a distinct worldview, science fiction, and spirituality, thereby constructing his own personal "OZworld" universe. Furthermore, he is an artist constantly seeking innovation, boldly experimenting with the fusion of traditional Okinawan musical elements and diverse genres such as Trap, Drill, Rage, Electronic Music, and EDM.

Paired with his clean, clear, and intensely penetrating vocal delivery and technical ability, his music consistently presents a flavor that is exclusively his own, exemplified by tracks like "Gear 5" and "NINOKUNI." Visually, he also possesses a unique aesthetic and, shall we say, some delightfully chūnibyō (dramatic/eccentric) ideas (XD), frequently adding psychedelic and futuristic elements to his music videos, even creating his own virtual character, allowing his personal distinctiveness to shine through even more fully.

Naturally, OZworld consistently maintains a strong connection with Okinawa in his creative work. In his latest series, "369 (Miroku)," he dedicated the initial chapter, "369 no 3," to collaborations with three fellow Okinawan artists: Awich, CHICO CARLITO, and Tsubaki. Together, they composed three hip-hop tracks that truly represent the sound of Okinawa. Notably, the music video for "Iyasaki LIT" (弥栄LIT), a collaboration with CHICO CARLITO, uses the simple, joyous act of drinking and toasting as its central theme, giving listeners a look at the happy, pure, and simple-living side of the people and the land of Okinawa.

OZworld / Gear 5 feat. ACE COOL & Ralph（Prod. FOUX）

OZworld / 弥栄LIT feat. CHICO CARLITO（Prod. Foux）

5. CHICO CARLITO

CHICO CARLITO is arguably one of the most hardcore and high-caliber rappers featured in this article. The spirit we most often feel in his music is one of pure "ambition" and fierce "competitiveness."

CHICO CARLITO's music is, for the most part, pure and sincere. Utilizing refined rap techniques, he delivers his personal philosophy of life struggle, social realism, or themes of love, gratitude, and his homeland. We can often sense his resolve and determination in every line.

When discussing CHICO's philosophy of struggle, I believe the core lies in the fusion of "Okinawan Spirit" and "Tokyo Ambition" (Jōkyō Yashin). CHICO CARLITO has always held fast to the fierce ambition of coming from his Okinawan home to make it in Tokyo, and the intense desire to "win" on the national stage. (He has, of course, also become an exceptionally outstanding Freestyle Battle MC in Tokyo.)

The "victory" he pursues is never a solitary endeavor. In his single "Ryukyu Style," the core message he constantly seeks to convey in the lyrics is that spirit of "winning together." I believe this embodies the "Heart of Ryukyu" that CHICO CARLITO upholds: if he climbs up, he pulls his peers up; if he falls, he lets his peers pull him up.

Even when he is in Tokyo, walking amidst the hustle of Shibuya, his heart remains on Okinawa's Kokusai Street. His ambition is to uplift his Okinawan peers and share in collective success—the shift from "I" to "We." This collective spirit is incredibly uplifting and moving. Other representative works by CHICO CARLITO include "Ichiyō Raifuku" (一陽来復) and "memory trigger."

CHICO CARLITO/一陽来復 ft.CHOUJI,唾奇 Beats by Sweet William

CHICO CARLITO / Ryukyu Style

6. RITTO

The rap poet RITTO, born on Ishigaki Island and currently based in Naha, Okinawa, is the leading figure of the legendary Okinawan hip-hop group Akazuchi (赤土). His music does not simply represent Okinawa or get reduced to a singular genre like "Hip-Hop"; rather, it represents the very existence and posture of a "human being" (Ningen). His masterpiece, "NINGEN State of Mind / pt-II," which addresses human nature and social contradictions, is regarded as one of the most symbolically significant classics among Okinawan music fans.

RITTO's music paints a picture of authentic life, where bewilderment, tenderness, and fortitude coexist. BOSS of the legendary Japanese hip-hop group THA BLUE HERB once praised him, declaring he was "the first rapper who made me hear the ‘song heart’ (utagokoro) in rap."

He has also collaborated with numerous fellow Okinawan musicians. In fact, Okinawan rap queen Awich, when collaborating on "NINGEN State of Mind II Remix," famously referred to his crew and their former regular Okinawan performance venue, "Love Ball," as the "Womb of Hip-Hop." This description powerfully conveys the depth of RITTO's influence and the weight of his presence on the Okinawan music landscape.

In recent years, he has also engaged in multiple collaborations with Taiwanese and other Asian musicians, including Miss Ko, The Crane, Gummy B, and PinkChain. This December 5th, as part of the 098 OKINAWA DAY event series, RITTO will bring his special chapter performance, "NINGEN State of Mind," to the Billboard Live Taipei stage. With a performance brimming with soul and authenticity, he will transmit the warmth and sincerity of the southern island to the audience.

RITTO【MV】NINGEN State of Mind pt-II ／ pro.OLIVEOIL

RITTO & PiNkChAiN & Sogare - HUELUI (Official Music Video)

7.TORAUMA

Although born in Aomori Prefecture, TORAUMA currently resides in Okinawa and has steadily developed his career there, establishing himself as one of the island's most representative rappers. He is a member of the highly influential Okinawan crew "604" and also part of the hip-hop label "Final Weapon Company," founded by HANG. Both entities have fostered many exceptional Okinawan rappers and producers, such as TOCCHI, HANG, MuKuRo, and hokuto; notably, Tsubaki, whom we introduced earlier, also originated from this collective.

Returning to TORAUMA's music, perhaps fitting his name (which can mean "Trauma"), he often writes about the inner struggles and realizations faced in life and existence. His singing voice and melody—powerful despite their instability—along with his deeply moving lyrics, are perfectly paired with the beats crafted by his long-time collaborator, producer Shisou SEESAW (詩奏SEESAW). This combination consistently strikes a chord with listeners, deeply resonating with them. For the editor, TORAUMA's voice and music possess a soul capable of offering a sense of "salvation." His representative works include "TSUBAKI" (椿) and "Sol."

Additionally, TORAUMA is highly praised for his intensely infectious and emotionally explosive live performances. His already moving tracks, combined with his raw, screaming, and utterly unrestrained performance style, consistently deliver a deeply profound emotional experience. He also maintains a strong relationship with Taiwan, having performed here multiple times in recent years. The editor has personally experienced his live shows a few times and can attest that they are truly overwhelming and highly recommended—beyond just listening to his music, seize the opportunity to experience the live energy!

TORAUMA / TSUBAKI（椿）[ beat. SEESAW ]

TORAUMA / Sol [Prod. CraftBeatz]

8. CHOUJI

Born on Ishigaki Island, CHOUJI is a rapper who began cultivating the Okinawan hip-hop scene in its very early stages. He has nurtured many subsequent musicians and continues to tirelessly strive on this land. When discussing contributions to the Okinawan hip-hop environment, or representation of Okinawan hip-hop, CHOUJI is arguably one of the most deserving rappers of that title.

CHOUJI's music is vast in both style and subject matter, encompassing lighthearted vignettes, Okinawan local culture, and songs about "flying" (weed-related themes), alongside many motivational and uplifting tracks.

His musical style is likely influenced by Okinawa's historical background, as he particularly favors integrating West Coast and G-Funk styles into his music. Naturally, this always includes rich Okinawan elements and a touch of exotic flavor. Despite his seemingly intimidating appearance, listening to CHOUJI's music consistently allows listeners to effortlessly sway to his light melodies and rap, feeling as relaxed as if chilling on an Okinawan beach. His representative works include "Funtōchū" (奮闘中, Struggling/Doing My Best) and "Budsman" (バッズマン).

CHOUJI is also a deeply respected senior figure in the local scene. Beyond collaborating with various well-known Okinawan rappers, he is incredibly generous in mentoring and providing resources to younger artists, hoping to use his influence to help those around him grow and prosper collectively. He also leads by example, consistently maintaining an astonishing volume of creative output—interested listeners will quickly discover his prolificacy. From the past to the present, CHOUJI has always maintained a deep love for Okinawa, continually contributing to the island's hip-hop scene in his own unique way.

CHOUJI - 奮闘中 beat by mosaic404

CHOUJI - 生きてゆく

9. Rude-α

Some listeners may have encountered Rude- $\alpha$'s work unintentionally in non-hip-hop settings. Among the Okinawan rappers introduced in this feature, he is the creator who has crossed over into Japanese Pop music the most, and whose musical style is less strictly confined to the hip-hop genre.

Rude- $\alpha$ is an excellent example of a rapper who crossed over into the mainstream music scene and achieved fame at a young age. He started in the battle scene, first entering the High School Rap Championship (高校生ラップ選手権) in 2014 and taking the runner-up position. In 2018, his debut EP, 20, immediately hit No. 1 on the iTunes Hip-Hop Album charts. That same year, he was invited to perform at the prestigious SXSW music festival in the U.S.

Subsequently, his career expanded to include producing theme songs, such as "LIFE" for the anime Dr. Stone, and performing his hit single "It's only love" early on the THE FIRST TAKE stage. These achievements transitioned him from being strictly a rapper to a well-rounded musician entrenched in the mainstream.

Rude- $\alpha$'s compelling characteristic lies in his strong and powerful voice, which, combined with his outstanding vocal ability, allows him to convey abundant emotion through his singing. His solid rap foundation also lets him showcase a cool, skillful side when rapping. Additional representative works include "Paradise" and "Wonder."

Although he relocated to various places early in his career, Rude- $\alpha$ still maintains many ties with Okinawa. Besides frequently mentioning his Okinawan origins, he often incorporates local elements into his tracks. The faint Southern atmosphere permeating his music is surely influenced by the island. For instance, his single "Umui" (うむい) addresses the past wars in Okinawa, aiming to transmit a message of peace. More recently, he participated in the production of the theme song "Goal Tape" (ゴールテープ) for the "Okinawa Integrated Medical College," continuously engaging with his hometown.

Furthermore, we recommend seeking out Rude- $\alpha$'s work from ten years ago, the music video for "CoCo Okinawa." Not only will you experience an abundance of Okinawan flavor, but you will also see a very young and nascent OZworld, who was active at the time under the name "R’kuma."

Rude-α 『LIFE』

Rude-α 『It's only love』

10. Yo-Sea

The final artist featured in this Okinawa special is Yo-Sea, who stands as one of the strongest voices currently crossing over between the Japanese Hip-Hop and R&B scenes.

The moment he opens his mouth, Yo-Sea conquers the listener’s ears. His most formidable assets are undoubtedly his ethereal yet aesthetic vocal tone and technique. His voice flows like water, effortlessly entering everyone's ears—his high notes are never burdensome. This calm, gentle aura is mirrored in his personal image, always appearing composed and soft-spoken alongside his music.

Skilled in R&B, he can seamlessly adapt his style to different genres and moods, transitioning freely between rapping and singing. This versatility makes him a highly sought-after collaborator among various rappers, serving as a powerful weapon to elevate any track. Beyond just rappers, Yo-Sea's voice has earned him opportunities to collaborate with renowned musicians like Hikaru Utada and Fujii Kaze. His representative works include "Flower," "Kakeashizoku" (かけ足族), and "Moonlight."

Although Yo-Sea relocated to Tokyo at a young age to pursue his career, he has always maintained a connection with his hometown of Okinawa. His 2023 album, Sea Of Love, which uses the ocean as its primary motif, partly addresses his deep longing for Okinawa. Through his life experiences, the songs also express a greater sense of love and inclusivity. The theme of the "sea" has since become an essential element linking back to Yo-Sea's music.

Even during this successful phase of his career, Yo-Sea never forgets to schedule Okinawa as the final stop on his tours, consistently showcasing the importance and love he holds for his birthplace.

Yo-Sea - Moonlight

Yo-Sea - かけ足族

After reading these introductions, we hope you now have a deeper understanding of Okinawan Hip-Hop. In the process of writing this article, the editor also spent significant time studying the island's cultural context, the history of its hip-hop growth, and considering the mindset necessary to approach the voices and lyrics emerging from this land.

For me, Okinawan Hip-Hop is truly one of the most beautiful parts of the Japanese Hip-Hop landscape. I have been deeply influenced by many of the artists from this region over the years. Therefore, we sincerely hope that if your interest has been piqued, you will take the time to explore more sounds from this vibrant place and more deeply feel the beauty of Okinawan Hip-Hop.