The Impact of Nujabes’s Music
“The music he left behind went beyond the sea and sowed the seeds for the next generation of culture”
Taking advantage of his extensive knowledge of music He began to work for magazines as a music writer. In 1995, while still a 21-year-old student, he opened a record store, Guinness Records, in Shibuya.
While collecting records, he finally started trackmaking in 1998 and began his career as Nujabes.
The stage name “Nujabes” is a reverse spelling of his real name, Jun Seba. It is said to reflect his private and introverted nature, as he preferred to let his music speak for itself.
Nujabes led him to launch his label, Hydeout Productions, in 1999.
Nujabes was a highly influential Japanese music producer and DJ. He is best known for his unique blend of jazz, hip-hop, and atmospheric sounds, which he masterfully combined to create a distinct and captivating nostalgic musical style.
During his formative years, Nujabes discovered hip-hop culture, which was gaining popularity in Japan during the 1980s and 1990s. He was drawn to the art of DJing and breakdancing, two fundamental elements of hip-hop culture.
Nujabes sound is characterized by its fusion of hip-hop, jazz, and traditional Japanese music. He was known for his ability to create a laid-back and atmospheric sound that was both relaxing and engaging.
There’s a whole vibe to them; an aesthetic that set down the blueprint for the genre of Lofi hip-hop.
His influence on the Lofi hip-hop genre cannot be overstated. The term "Lofi hip-hop" was coined in part to describe the type of music that Nujabes was creating in the early 2000s.
Lofi hip-hop is a subgenre of hip-hop that is characterized by its use of Lofi (low fidelity) production techniques. It often features mellow and nostalgic samples, laid-back drum patterns, and a sense of relaxation and chillness.
His music often featured samples of jazz and soul records, which he would manipulate and layer to create intricate and textured compositions. A consummate sample spotter, his chosen melodic jazz riffs and boom-bap-inspired beats were like nothing else around.
Relaxed and spiritual but always emotional, his songs have a unique flavor that sets them apart from others.
His ability to craft captivating melodies, blend genres, and evoke deep emotions through his music solidifies his status as one of the most influential and revered producers in instrumental hip-hop and beyond.
His philosophy of using music as a means of healing and uplifting the soul profoundly impacted the genre, inspiring producers to create soothing and calming music.
Seba’s music played a vital role in setting the show’s distinctive tone, fusing traditional Japanese elements with contemporary hip-hop beats.
During his musical career, he brought a lot of what was happening in Tokyo to the US and UK underground hip-hop worlds through collaborations with American artists like Fat Jon, CL Smooth, and of course, Shing02.
Tragically, Nujabes passed away in 2010 in a car accident. He was just 36 years old at the time of his death. Despite his short career, Nujabes left an indelible mark on the music world, particularly in the hip-hop and Lofi hip-hop genres.
Seba has since achieved posthumous acclaim and has been referred to as the "godfather" of Lofi hip hop. Seba's production techniques and career have also been compared favorably with J Dilla, who was born on the same day.
Lofi hip hop has become increasingly popular in recent years, with millions of listeners tuning in to online radio stations and YouTube channels that feature 24/7 Lofi hip hop streams.
The dichotomy of Ruido.
A moment in the present.
Indulge in the music of culture.
A moment in the present.
Indulge in the music of culture.