Zeebra

Zeebra formed in 1993 with DJ Matsunaga, MC Yoshinori Dokuma (who goes by Zeebra), MC Seiichi Sato (Twigy), and MC Yasuo Sato (DJ Muro). Their debut album "The Rhyme Animal" came out in 1996, anchored by the single "After Party," which became a staple in Japan's hip-hop scene. The track's straightforward beat and everyday lyrics connected with listeners at a time when Japanese hip-hop was still finding its footing.

Over the next decade, Zeebra put out albums like "King of Kings" in 1998 and "Foundation" in 2001. The lineup shifted as Twigy and DJ Muro left in the late '90s, and DJ Matsunaga departed in 2005, leaving Zeebra as the only original member. New musicians like DJ Kensei and MC JESSE joined later. In 2006, their song "Tokyo Business" drew criticism for its lyrics, sparking some public discussion about hip-hop's role in Japan.

Songs like "Platinum Date," "Neva Enuff," and "GOLDEN MIC" show Zeebra's consistent output. They kept releasing music through the 2000s, including the 2008 album "The New Beginning." The group's work, especially "After Party," remains a reference point in Japanese hip-hop, known for its direct style and connection to the scene's early days.