Tokyo Drift

Master the drift or lose control.

Tokyo Drift (Fast & Furious) is a single by Japanese hip hop group Teriyaki Boyz. Released as the main theme for the 2006 film The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, the track also plays during the end credits of the movie. Beyond its cinematic role, the song found a permanent home on the band's second album, Serious Japanese. Produced by the Neptunes, consisting of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, the track was written by Teriyaki Boyz members Verbal, Wise, and Ilmari. It stands as a defining musical moment for the franchise, blending hip hop with unique instrumental textures to capture the spirit of the film's racing culture.

Quick Facts

Artist: Teriyaki Boyz
Album: The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift (soundtrack) and Serious Japanese
Released: June 27, 2006
Recorded: 2005
Language: English, Japanese
Genre: Hip hop
Length: 4:15
Label: Star Trak

Lore & Background

The song's creation involved specific contributions from the band members Verbal, Wise, and Ilmari, who penned the lyrics under the production guidance of the Neptunes. The instrumental composition is notable for its use of a gamelan, giving the track a distinct sound that mirrors the Japanese setting of the film. Within the movie, the song accompanies scenes where cars are racing, anchoring the high-octane action with its rhythm. The track also exists in an official remix on the album Serious Japanese, which features American rappers Pusha T and Fam-Lay alongside new verses from Teriyaki Boyz.

Reader's Guide

For listeners seeking the definitive version, the original track appears on Teriyaki Boyz's second album, Serious Japanese. Fans can also explore the official remix found on the same album, which includes verses from Pusha T and Fam-Lay. The song holds a significant place in the group's discography as their only certified single to date, having been certified Gold by the RIAJ.