Zeebra ( "", born April 2, 1971 in Tokyo, Japan) is a famous Japanese hip hop artist, who is known as the first rapper in Japan. He was born and raised in Tokyo. He made his first appearance in 1995. Zeebra was a member of the hip-hop group King Giddra, which also included DJ Oasis and K Dub Shine. He became a solo artist in 1997. Because he has been in many TV commercials, started hip-hop television programs, and produced songs for upcoming rappers, Zeebra could be called the father of the Japanese rap scene.