Jin Dogg never set out to be a rapper.

The Japanese act grew up surrounded by hip-hop and watching his friends freestyle in high school, but never intended on pursuing music until he set foot in a studio on one fateful day. A couple of years later, he’s now one of the most respected rappers in Asian music. 

Powerful and intense, Jin Dogg isn’t an artist you forget easily. Whether it’s his lyrical honesty and aggression or his high-energy live performances, the ‘Psycho’ hitmaker leaves an imprint on your heart and soul. 

Channelling his anger and dismays with the world into his songs and performances, music has always been a safe space and outlet for the artist. Hoping to “express energy”, he hopes to motivate his listeners with all aspects of his music, whether it’s on the soundboard or on stage.

Jin Dogg released his first EP in 2012, titled Welcome to Bang Bang I.K.N and made his rounds as part of Osaka’s emerging hip-hop scene. Since then, he’s released an array of singles, collaboration EPs, and albums – each amplifying his artistry and solidifying his place in Asian hip-hop. 

“Since then, my environment has improved such as the studio, plus my skills also got better and since then my recognition has improved too,” he reminisced.

Taking influences from an array of genres and acts – be it 90s beats or hardcore drums, ‘the Rubberband Man’ act weaves an intricate web of sounds that transcends traditional rap, 

One of his most popular songs, ‘Psycho’, is a testament to just that. Threading between elements of hip-hop and rock, the 2018 single shows Jin Dogg’s artistic aggression and musical versatility. 

But, the beauty of Jin Dogg’s music best reveals itself on a live stage. Inspired by the likes of Bones and $uicide Boy$, Jin Dogg is well-known for his live performances. Wild, intense, and just outright crazy, the rapper’s shows are a mosh pit of fun, excitement, and pure adrenaline – and of course, also has some great mosh pits.

“It's just great to move from city to city, do shows packed with people, and visit a new town,” he shares. 

 

 

 

 

 

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When asked about his most memorable performance yet, he shared, “There was a big hip hop party called ‘NAMIMONOGATARI’ and I performed in front of 10,000 people and made them go crazy. It was such a moment for me.”

 

 

 

 

 

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Most recently, Jin Dogg dropped his latest EP You Don’t Know which comes as his highly anticipated follow up to last year’s HELL GATE which was made in collaboration with OVER KILL. 

Produced by HOMUNCULU$, the EP spans eight tracks that relay varied stories from the artist’s life and experiences. The record includes his previously released singles ‘the Rubberband Man’ and ‘22’ featuring Lil Foggy and Foggyatthebottom. 

In almost a decade of doing music, Jin Dogg has reached immense heights. From performing on some of the greatest stages across Japan to being recognised as one of the top Asian rappers, the hitmaker has had quite the adventure through music. 

While he still doesn’t have his heart set out on being the world’s biggest rapper, Jin Dogg hopes he can leave a lasting impression with his voice, message, and music. 

“I'm not trying to be the king or number one [right now], however, I want to be one of the greatest in history.”

Listen to Jin Dogg's You Don't Know here.