Beloved beatmaker Nujabes melded jazzy elements with soulful hip-hop that didn't need MCs to grab your attention. Starting in the '90s, the Tokyo-based creator used hazy samples, drum machines, and turntables to create peaceful beats that conjure mellow atmospheres. At times, his music evoked a melancholy, nostalgic feel, such as on the piano-anchored “Color of Autumn.” Nujabes frequently collaborated with other Japanese producers, like Shing02 and Uyama Hiroto, to create soothing soundscapes with a bounce. His work still looms large on the Japanese scene as a major influence.