August 29, 2024 | Tokyo, Japan | Team RJHH
On August 29, NORIKIYO, an iconic figure in Japanese rap, released his latest single titled “Machiawase feat. Hiiragito” under the Kusari GROUP label. This song tells a poignant and personal story rooted in a crucial moment in the artist’s life.
A Chance Encounter That Gave Birth to “Machiawase”
“Machiawase” is not an ordinary song. It draws inspiration from a significant NORIKIYO experience while filming a music video. Before his incarceration, NORIKIYO heard Hiiragito’s music playing in the car driven by the video crew. This unexpected musical encounter planted the seeds for the collaboration between the two artists. At that time, he did not know Hiiragito, but fate brought them together. A few exchanges later, while NORIKIYO was still out on bail, he seized the opportunity to create this piece before the prison doors closed behind him.
“Machiawase”: A Work Born Out of Urgency
NORIKIYO is currently serving a sentence of three years and six months at Oita Prison, following his conviction for the cultivation, acquisition, and sale of cannabis. Despite the prison walls, the artist retains his creativity and voice. Since the beginning of his incarceration, he has already released two other works this year: “CRIMINAL STATEMENT“ and a compilation in collaboration with DJ DEFLO, titled “STACKIN’ BREAD FROM THE PRISON mixed by DJ DEFLO“. These productions reveal an artist profoundly reflecting on his situation, who continues to express himself through music despite the hardships. Alongside the release of “Machiawase,” handwritten comments by NORIKIYO will also be published under the title “Representative Inspector of Oita Prison.” In these writings, he shares intimate stories about life in detention and solitary confinement and behind-the-scenes tales of his collaboration with Hiiragito. These texts offer a unique perspective on the reality of prison life and allow fans to dive deeper into the artist’s world.
Artist: Norikiyo
Single: “Machiawase”
Release date: August 29, 2024
Label: YUKICHI RECORDS
Stream Link
Chiba’s Hip-Hop Collective Shines: TOME & DJ KANJI Drop ‘BREAK OUT’
