Rapper Ryugo Ishida, best known as one half of the hip-hop duo Yurufuwa Gang, has released a new track titled ‘Blood tear’, his response to a recent assault in Fukuoka that left him hospitalised with an orbital fracture.
The incident occurred earlier this month after Ishida’s performance at GALA RESORT NAKASU in Fukuoka. According to his social media statements, the altercation took place at a local club, where a confrontation with Fukuoka-based rapper and MMA fighter DAGRAS escalated into violence. Ishida described being physically restrained and beaten by multiple individuals. On January 24th—the day of the track’s release—he shared CCTV footage supporting his account, showing key moments leading up to and during the attack.
— Ryugo Ishida (@DudeFunkaholics) January 24, 2025
The artwork for ‘Blood tear’ features an image of Ishida’s bloodied and swollen face, originally posted on his Instagram stories shortly after the incident.
In the track, Ishida reaffirms his stance against violence with lyrics such as, “I am a musician who fights with the weapon of rap” and “I told them I don’t need violence, I’ll take them down with words”.
Following the assault, Ishida took to X to express his determination to pursue legal action while emphasising his commitment to responding through music rather than retaliation. He also expressed gratitude to fans and friends who supported him, highlighting his desire to “repay love with love” rather than engage in further conflict.
The release of ‘Blood tear’ has also brought attention to conflicting narratives surrounding the incident. Ashura MIC, another local rapper present during the altercation, claimed the dispute stemmed from Ishida’s perceived attitude towards DAGRAS. While Ishida accused Ashura MIC of involvement in the attack, the latter denied any responsibility, stating he had attempted to mediate the situation. Despite their disagreements, Ashura MIC has publicly acknowledged and praised the track, though he maintains that misunderstandings persist. Meanwhile, DAGRAS has yet to comment on the situation.
At Yurufuwa Gang’s SUPER YURUFUWA HADAKA NEKO event in Osaka on January 25th, fans were caught off guard when Ishida appeared on stage despite his injuries. Rolled out in a wheelchair by NENE, his unexpected return drew a strong reaction from the crowd, with one attendee commenting, “I don’t know the full story, but after seeing a live show like this, I can’t help but support them”.
‘Blood tear’ follows the release of Ishida’s second solo album, ‘4NEVER’, which dropped in December.
Listen ‘Blood tear’ by Ryugo Ishida now via his official YouTube channel.
Ryugo Ishida
4NEVER
Release Date: 21/12/2024
Label: ABDUCTIONS
Stream: Spotify | Apple Music
