January 31 , 2026 | Tokyo, Japan | Team RJHH
The audition program “RAPSTAR 2025“, an essential launchpad for the new generation of Japanese hip-hop, announces the digital release of its finalists’ tracks. In the first wave, Masato Hayashi and the winner Pxrge Trxxxper unveil their creations forged during the competition.
A Record-Breaking Competition and a Stunning Winner
“RAPSTAR” has established itself as the premier audition program for discovering future Japanese hip-hop talent. The 2025 edition shattered all records with 6,780 applications, an unprecedented figure in the show’s history.
Under the watchful eyes of a jury composed of major scene figures, five artists were selected as finalists: sh1t, Sonsi, VERRY SMoL, Masato Hayashi, and Pxrge Trxxxper. The finale, titled “RAPSTAR 2025 FINALS“, took place on December 13, 2025, during the hip-hop event “STARZ 2025” organized by the show. Pxrge Trxxxper claimed the supreme title, winning the grand prize of 3 million yen. His finale track, “REVENGE,” has since generated considerable buzz.
Digital Releases Begin
The tracks that the finalists refined throughout the program, true concentrations of their artistic identity, are now available on major streaming platforms. The first wave launched on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, with Masato Hayashi’s “HIROYUKI“, followed on Friday, January 30, by Pxrge Trxxxper’s “The Claimant” and “REVENGE.” Additional releases from the finalists are scheduled in the coming weeks.
Release Information
Masato Hayashi – “HIROYUKI”
- Lyrics: Masato Hayashi / Composition: ineedmorebux / Release Date: January 28, 2026 (Wednesday) / Format: Digital Single
Pxrge Trxxxper – “The Claimant” / Pxrge Trxxxper – “REVENGE”
- Lyrics: Pxrge Trxxxper / Composition: Homunculu$ / Release Date: January 30, 2026 (Friday) / Format: Digital Album
- Lyrics: Pxrge Trxxxper / Composition: ineedmorebux / Release Date: January 30, 2026 (Friday) / Format: Digital Album
Limited Free Streaming on ABEMA
To celebrate these releases, the ABEMA platform is offering free streaming of all “RAPSTAR 2025” episodes exclusively on Friday, January 30. A unique opportunity to (re)discover the entire season.
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