Hey MoneyRemix by Norikiyo: A Raw Slice of Japanese Hip-Hop Gold
Yo, let’s talk about Hey MoneyRemix by Norikiyo. This 2014 gem from Japan is one of those albums that sneaks up on you like a stray cat in an alley—scrappy, unapologetic, and kinda unforgettable. Released under Yukichi Records, it's got this gritty vibe that feels way more real than some overproduced mainstream stuff out there. If you’re into underground hip-hop with bite, this one’s for you.
First off, the title track, “Hey Money (Remix),” hits hard. Like… really hard. It’s not just the beat that grabs your attention—it’s how Norikiyo spits his bars with this raw intensity, like he’s got something to prove but doesn’t care if you believe him or not. The remix version adds layers; it’s smoother yet punchier at the same time, which sounds weird when I say it, but trust me, it works. You can hear the influence of classic boom-bap mixed with a touch of modern flair. Honestly, every time I listen to it, I feel like I’m walking through Tokyo streets late at night, headphones on, pretending I’m in my own movie. That’s how immersive it feels.
Then there’s another track—I won’t spoil all the surprises—but let’s just say it slaps so hard it might knock your socks off. What sticks with me isn’t just the flow or the hook—it’s the energy. Norikiyo has this way of making you feel like he’s talking directly to YOU, like he knows what’s up in your life even though he doesn’t know you exist. And yeah, maybe that’s cheesy to admit, but hey, good music does that sometimes.
What makes this album stand out is its authenticity. There’s no trying-too-hard-to-be-cool nonsense here. It’s straight-up honest, stripped-down hip-hop that reminds you why you fell in love with rap in the first place. Plus, coming from Japan, it brings a unique flavor that blends cultural vibes without being gimmicky. Like, dude didn’t need to throw in taiko drums or anime samples to make it "Japanese hip-hop." He just did his thing, and it WORKED.
Reflecting on Hey MoneyRemix, I think about how rare it is to find projects these days that hit you right in the gut instead of aiming for the charts. Listening to this feels like finding a hidden bodega in a big city—you weren’t looking for it, but damn, are you glad you stumbled across it. Oh, and fun fact? Every time I try to describe this album to someone, they ask if it’s “that one song where he says money a lot.” Nope. Not even close. But now you’ll get why it’s stuck in my head.
So go ahead, give it a spin. Just don’t blame me if you start hearing echoes of Norikiyo’s voice while counting your loose change later.
