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RIP Quincy Jones: Celebrating His Hip-Hop Bond Through Iconic Samples

November 4, 2024 by newhiphopnews

“I fell in love with hip-hop in the late 1970s because it reminded me so much of bebop,” the late great Quincy Jones said of the art form and culture we know and love during a 2021 REVOLT interview. “Young people are seekers, man! They always have been. When we’re young, we all want to break the mold and find our truth, and that is a central tenet of both jazz and classical music! Besides, it all comes from the same stuff.” The music legend sadly passed away at 91 on Sunday night (November 3) surrounded by his family in his Bel Air home. He loved hip-hop, and hip-hop returned that passion. The Chicago native enlisted rappers Ice-T and Big Daddy Kane on 1989’s Back On The Block album, plus many MCs like Talib Kweli, T.I., Q-Tip, Three 6 Mafia, and more on his final album, Q: Soul Bossa Nostra.

With this and his indelible legacy and impact in mind, we decided to list six amazing hip-hop tracks that sample Quincy Jones’ work. We obviously couldn’t fit all of them on here, and there’s so much more to discover regarding these connections. LL COOL J’s “Hey Lover,” Ludacris’ “Number One Spot,” and De La Soul’s “Breakadawn,” along with many others, are too iconic to escape mention. But the musicality and creativity behind each of the following cuts leave no room for hyperbole: Quincy was, and forever will be, one of modern music’s indisputable legends for his craft, contributions, career achievements, and celebrations of the sonic language. Here’s how hip-hop chose to reimagine and pay tribute to his greatness.

Mobb Deep – “Shook Ones, Pt. II”

How could we not kick things off with arguably the best hip-hop beat of all time? Produced by Havoc, Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones Pt. II” features a wailing siren from Quincy Jones’ “Kitty With The Bent Frame.” It’s off the score from the 1971 film Dollars, which Quincy produced in full. What’s more, this isn’t even the start of his iconic movie collaborators, such as with Roots, The Wiz, The Color Purple, In Cold Blood, The Italian Job, and many more. Back to “Kitty With The Bent Frame,” though, this is an often haunting ambient cut whose urgent atmosphere, jazzy bass licks, and ominous keys provide the perfect backdrop for Prodigy’s legendarily gritty narratives. Ain’t no such thing as halfway efforts in much of Jones’ catalog.

2Pac – “How Do U Want It”

Another iconic hip-hop cut, producer Johnny J used Quincy Jones and Leon Ware’s titular track from the former’s 1974 album Body Heat for 2Pac’s easy-riding All Eyez On Me cut from 1996, “How Do U Want It” featuring K-Ci & JoJo. ‘Pac adds his own sense of swagger to the original’s already funky and soulful melodies and instrumentation. Quincy’s track starts off soft, though, and eventually builds from muted guitars and sobbing synths into a brighter and more energetic jam with some gorgeous vocal melodies and grand drums. The notion that the West Coast legend was able to transform its tenderness into bravado is even more impressive, but that’s how resonant and universal the decades-long producer’s sensibilities are.

The Pharcyde – “Passin’ Me By”

Now with a more straightforward example, we have The Pharcyde’s “Passin’ Me By” off their 1992 classic, Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde. The opening keys on that track are some of the most recognizable in hip-hop history, and they come from Quincy Jones’ 1973 album You’ve Got It Bad Girl. Together, with producer Ray Brown, he uses those opening moments on the track “Summer In The City” with Valerie Simpson to evoke that exact same vibe. There are some killer solos on here propelled by steady drums and heavenly string additions plus vocal soars further on. As for the South Central L.A. group, producer J-Swift adds more lively drums, scratches, and a seemingly altered bassline to keep that same soul alive under a different context. It still sounds like summer in the city, even 20 years removed from its original and over 30 years since they released it.

MC Lyte – “Keep On, Keepin’ On”

There are so many iconic Michael Jackson records that Quincy Jones produced that created monumental hip-hop tracks. “P.Y.T.” became Kanye West and T-Pain’s “Good Life,” and “It Ain’t Hard To Tell” by Nas flipped “Human Nature” perfectly. But we want to highlight MC Lyte’s smooth Xscape collab “Keep On, Keepin’ On” off her 1996 LP, Bad As I Wanna B. A lingering and ethereal synth hangs in the background, and some tuneful steel drums and trills add a lot of flavor and woozy moodiness to the song. Those sounds are from the Quincy and MJ-produced “Liberian Girl” off the blockbuster 1987 album Bad. It’s one of the most unique sonic pallets of that classic, and it resulted in one of the New York femcee’s most idiosyncratic cuts, as well.

Big Sean & Metro Boomin – “No Hearts, No Love”

Onto one of the most recent Quincy-sampling cuts, which comes from Big Sean and Metro Boomin’s 2017 collab project Double Or Nothing. Their track “No Hearts, No Love” opens with some playful keys and guitar licks, with the keys eventually down-tuned just a bit by producer Metro with some additional dark chords. Despite the solid trap beat, those glistening notes don’t lose their luster and, frankly, they make the track what it is thanks to its support of the Sean Don’s confident bars. Their origin stems from The Brothers Johnson’s 1977 album Right On Time produced by Quincy Jones, specifically the pop and funk-fusing “Strawberry Letter 23.” The original is a much more fun and happy cut overall, but again, those melodies are hard to deny in any context.

MF DOOM – “Rhymes Like Dimes”

Finally, we want to celebrate two late legends with this pick. Out of the wealth of iconic sample flips in MF DOOM’s catalog, the self-produced “Rhymes Like Dimes” off 1999’s Operation: Doomsday is among the most memorable and colorful. Those wondrous keys silky synth leads, and light drums are so joyful and warm that not even DOOM’s husk can take away from their sheen. In fact, it complements it perfectly. Quincy Jones brought this gem of a loop into the world on the 1981 album The Dude on the song “One Hundred Ways” featuring James Ingram. It’s actually the solo that appears after a healing and dream-like vocal performance and is one of many instances where Quincy created larger-than-life moments out of just a few elements and songwriting decisions. To put it bluntly, it’s a magical example of a timeless musical mind and hand.

Rest In Peace Quincy Jones.

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Ice Spice’s Best Sample Flips

May 28, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Everyone knows Ice Spice broke out onto the mainstream hip-hop scene with her 2022 viral track “Munch (Feelin’ U).” It was the popularity of “Munch (Feelin’ U)” on TikTok in particular that helped propel her career to a level she never imagined. Hailing from the Bronx, New York, the 24-year-old drill rapper earned a reputation for her lyrics, but she’s had some help on her quirky beats. Part of the motivation to begin creating music in 2021 came from her chance meeting with the producer RiotUSA at college. RiotUSA’s quirky beats and interesting sampling have played an ongoing role in Ice Spice’s commercial success. Spice hasn’t been withholding about this at all, often bringing her producer into the limelight along with her Here we’ll dive into five Ice Spice samples that showcase the fun and unexpected approach the duo has capitalized on.

“Gangsta Boo”: Chopping Diddy With Lil TJay

“Gangsta Boo” is a collab track Ice Spice created with Lil Tjay for the deluxe edition of her debut extended play Like..? in 2023. RiotUSA and Mario Winans also worked together on the production side. The track features one of the most interestingly chopped Ice Spice samples to date. The track takes its slick melodic riff from P. Diddy and Ginuwine’s “I Need a Girl (Part Two),” released on a 2002 compilation album. RiotUSA ingeniously transforms the riff from its original laid-back and sultry R&B feel. Now, by removing notes here and there, the riff is both poppier and punchier, giving “Gangsta Boo” both a familiar and edgy sound.

“Actin A Smoochie”: Ice Spice Meets Tierra Whack

Tierra Whack, the rapper-singer who’s been performing since she was a teenager, dropped her R&B? EP in 2021. Ice Spice and RiotUSA apparently took a liking to the track “Cuttin Onions,” since they sampled it with little alteration for Spice’s “Actin A Smoochie.” The primary modification made was a tempo increase which also forced an upward pitch change.

“No Clarity”: Most Famous Flip

2021’s “No Clarty” contains probably the most famous Ice Spice samples we’ve covered thus far. This was the rapper’s second single, and it made great use of Zedd and Foxes’ “Clarity.” Back in 2012, you could hear this song everywhere. Glee, The Voice, and The X Factor also included renditions of the song. Even Korean popstars BLACKPINK covered the track back in 2019. RiotUSA and Spice utilized the track’s chorus, having it play pretty much through the entirety of “No Clarity.” But they switched things up by modulating the track and changing its speed fluidly. Warping a song called “Clarity” worked as a clever play on the title “No Clarity.” It worked even better as the perfect melodic accompaniment to Spice’s delivery.

“Gimme A Light”: A Nod To Sean Paul

Ice Spice’s newest track, “Gimme a Light,” is appropriately named. That’s because Sean Paul’s 2002 hit record “Gimme The Light” is its inspiration and basis. It uses the hook in Paul’s classic track to great effect, slowing it down and looping for Ice Spice’s own hook. The syllable stresses in the slowed Paul hook form a map that the entire song’s beat follows. “Gimme A Light” is set to be the first single off of the Bronx rapper’s debut studio LP, Y2K, slated for release next month by Capitol Records. This interesting installment in the growing catalog of Ice Spice samples foreshadows what she and RiotUSA have in store for us on the full-length album.

“Barbie World”: Bringing Back Aqua

This Ice Spice sample throws things way back to 1997, using Aqua’s famous track “Barbie Girl.” This was the Danish-Norwegian dance group’s biggest song, reaching number one in 10 countries and selling over 8 million copies worldwide. Throughout most of “Barbie World,” Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj exchange raps over Aqua’s chorus. There are a few momentary pauses, and the beginning of the song samples the iconic “you can say, ‘I’m always yours,’” line before Spice says “Stop playin’ with ’em Riot.”

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Best Luther Vandross Samples In Hip Hop

February 28, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Soul & R&B royalty Luther Vandross has long been revered for his unparalleled timeless compositions. Considering the excellence of his music, it was only a matter of time before Hip Hop artists recognized the goldmine of inspiration embedded within his catalog. For decades now, the singer’s music has been sampled in Hip Hop tracks, contributing to many unforgettable gems.

While it’s been almost two decades since he sadly passed away, Luther Vandross remains in the hearts of fans. His name recently made its way into tabloids following an incident at a Madonna show. The “Like a Prayer” singer included Luther’s photo in an AIDS/HIV tribute when, in fact, he died of a stroke and didn’t have either disease. Nevertheless, since we’re all thinking of Luther Vandross and honoring his legacy, let’s take a look at some of his best samples in Hip Hop.

“Excuse Me Miss” — Jay-Z Ft. Pharrell Williams

After releasing The Blueprint 2 in November 2002, Jay-Z dropped “Excuse Me Miss” as its third single on February 4, 2003. The track is a mesmerizing blend of smooth R&B vibes and hard-hitting rap verses. Produced by The Neptunes, it boasts an infectious groove driven by crisp percussion, lush synths, and a hypnotic bassline. In addition, it features lyrics and melodies from “Take You Out” (2001) by Luther Vandross. The sampled material appears within the first minute of “Excuse Me Miss” and is sung by Pharrell Williams.

“Things I’ve Been Through” — Jadakiss

“Things I’ve Been Through” was released as a part of Jadakiss’ third album, The Last KisI (2009). Although it didn’t get the single treatment, this is undoubtedly one of the standout tracks on the album. An introspective masterpiece, it offers a poignant glimpse into the rapper’s trials, tribulations, and triumphs. Additionally, it features one of the most memorable Luther Vandross samples in Hip Hop. The iconic hook of Jadakiss’s track was lifted from “Promise Me,” a song from Luther’s 1982 sophomore album. The sample comes on at the beginning of “Things I’ve Been Through” and is present throughout the song.

“Got Me Waiting” — Heavy D & The Boyz

When Heavy D & The Boyz dropped this song in 1994, it quickly rose to the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100. “Got Me Waiting” is arguably the most successful single from the group’s Nuttin’ But Love album, and for good reason. The track seamlessly blends velvety R&B melodies with infectious rap verses in a way that only Heavy D could master. However, this song would not be what it is without the Luther Vandross sample that quite literally gives it life. It samples the instrumental from the 1981 Luther Vandross song “Don’t You Know That?”

“The Way Life Used To Be” — Snoop Dogg

An underrated gem in Snoop’s discography, “The Way Life Used to Be” was released in 2011. It appears on the rapper’s eleventh album, Doggumentary, and is one of its best tracks. Set against a backdrop of lush production characterized by silky melodies, the song captures the essence of West Coast Hip Hop at its finest. Another standout feature of “The Way Life Used to Be” is its excellent use of a Luther Vandross sample. The song it borrows from is “Bad Boy / Having a Party,” off of Luther’s sophomore album.

“Mind Of A Souljah” — Bone Thugs-N-Harmony

Bone Thugs-N-Harmony is one of the most revered rap groups in the history of Hip Hop. With a discography like theirs, it’s easy to see why they have the reputation they do. “Mind of a Souljah” was released as a part of their third album, The Art of War. Like “Things I’ve Been Through” by Jadakiss, this song samples “Promise Me” by Luther Vandross. The haunting melody the sample sets the stage for Bone Thugs-N-Harmony to deliver their powerful message with unflinching intensity.

“No Better Love” — Young Gunz Ft. Rell

“No Better Love” by Young Gunz is a timeless anthem of youthful exuberance and the pursuit of success. Released as the lead single from the duo’s debut album, Tough Luv, it showcases their musical strengths. The song’s hook and upbeat tempo create a vibe that is both nostalgic and irresistibly catchy. Additionally, it features a smooth sample of the instrumentals of Luther Vandross’s “Better Love.”

“Slow Jamz” — Twista Ft. Kanye West & Jamie Foxx

On December 2, 2003, Twista released “Slow Jamz” as the lead single of his fourth album, Kamikaze. All three artists on this track bring their A-game and deliver a masterclass in storytelling. Without a doubt, Jamie Foxx and Kanye West’s contributions elevate the song to iconic status. Equally iconic is the sample of “A House Is Not a Home” by Luther Vandross featured on “Slow Jamz.” The sped-up vocals of the singer appear throughout the song and add an undeniable flavor to it.

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Best Al Green Samples In Hip Hop

February 19, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Al Green’s soul is ingrained in hip hop’s DNA. From samples and interpolations of his songs, he’s not only helped define the genre but played a role in hip-hop that can not be understated. Some of the biggest names in music have sampled his vocals, making them a staple in the sounds of today. Many legendary hip-hop classics have reimagined Green’s illustrious discography, injecting the emotion of his unique vocals into their music. Last year, Rolling Stone ranked the music icon as the tenth greatest singer of all time — a testament to his legacy. Today, we are looking at the best Al Green samples in hip hop. Take a look at the list below.

“Eye For A Eye (Your Beef Is Mines)” – Mobb Deep Feat. Nas & Raekwon (1995)

One of Mobb Deep’s most iconic tracks creatively flips Al Green’s “I Wish You Were Here.” The New York rap duo completely transformed its sample. The song builds on top of its melancholic string section to make one of hip-hop’s filthiest beats. The strings become the spooky backing for the thumping drum break on “Eye For A Eye.” The verses from Havoc, Prodigy, Nas, and Raekwon are so tough that one might not even think of Al Green when they hear the beat for the first time. Mobb Deep later sampled his music once again on their final studio album. Additionally, Raekwon, his fellow Wu-Tang Clan members, and Nas sampled Al Green on numerous tracks.

“Shootouts” – Nas (1996)

Nas sampled Al Green’s music for multiple tracks on Street’s Disciple as well as “U Wanna Be Me” from the 8 Mile soundtrack. Out of the many times he has repurposed Green’s music, his first is easily the best. His 1996 song “Shootouts” samples the exact part of “I Wish You Were Here” that “Eye For A Eye” did a year prior. Unlike “Eye For A Eye,” Nas’s track turns its Al Green sample into a clean loop that is not as menacing. Producers Poke and Tone slowed and chopped “I Wish You Were Here” into a polished boom-bap instrumental, embodying the mafioso theme of It Was Written.

“What’s Beef?” – The Notorious B.I.G. (1997)

Biggie sampled Al Green’s “I’m Glad You’re Mine” on three separate occasions. Two of these songs, “What’s Beef?” and “I Got a Story to Tell,” ended up on Life After Death. The posthumously released “Dead Wrong” also sampled the track as well. While all three tracks made a classic rap songs out of the famous drum break, “What’s Beef” is easily the most creative.

Producers Nashiem Myrick and Carlos Broady did not alter the loop, but added the ominous strings on top to create a hip-hop classic. Biggie’s commanding delivery fits comfortably within the pockets of the drums, making perfect sense as to why he rapped over them so much. In comparison to the other uses of “I’m Glad You’re Mine,” the additional production on “What’s Beef?” fits the sample better. Life After Death features multiple Al Green samples, including this track, the aforementioned “I Got a Story to Tell,” and “My Downfall.”

“Blueprint (Momma Loves Me)” – JAY-Z(2001)

JAY-Z’s The Blueprint album closes with “Blueprint (Momma Loves Me),” sampling Al Green’s “Free At Last.” Producer Bink! flipped his vocals into a motivational outro layered with slow drums and an organ melody. He sampled such a small portion of the song but it lends itself nicely to the rest of the track. The additional instrumentation combined with the tasteful Al Green sample makes for a soulful beat on an album known for its brilliant sample flips. The beat on “Blueprint (Momma Loves Me)” was later repurposed for “Mamma Knew Love,” the opening track from Anthony Hamilton’s debut album, 2003’s Comin’ From Where I’m From.

“Living This Life” – UGK (2007)

UGK’s “Living This Life” stands out as one of the best uses of Al Green samples in hip hop. It samples not one, but two different songs from Green. “Living This Life” incorporates the aforementioned drum break from “I’m Glad You’re Mine” and the vocals from “Free At Last.” These prominently sampled Al Green songs, along with Goodie Mob’s “Free,” display how various elements of preexisting songs can create a brand new sound. While both of these Al Green samples have been reworked for several hip-hop songs, UGK and the track’s producers, N.O. Joe and Joe Scorsese, managed to make them fit together seamlessly.

“Are We Still Friends?” – Tyler, The Creator (2019)

On IGOR, Tyler, The Creator beautifully modified Al Green’s “Dream” into a compelling album closer. Throughout its instrumental, “Are We Still Friends?” notably features a slightly sped-up loop “Dream,” incorporating multiple elements of the track. Tyler does not modify it too much. Instead, he created a completely new song out of it, exhibiting that a good loop is sometimes all one needs. “Are We Still Friends?” experiences multiple embellishments in its production throughout the song, adding Tyler’s own style of instrumentation to Al Green’s original version. It remains one of Tyler’s most soulful songs to date.

“Crowns For Kings” – Benny The Butcher Feat. Black Thought (2019)

In hip hop, many producers heavily chop Al Green samples, while others simply loop a portion of the song. Benny The Butcher’s “Crowns For Kings” opts for the latter. Green’s “Look What You Done To Me” is featured as the basis for the track. Produced by the late DJ Shay, the sample is met with a traditional drum pattern, over which Benny and Black Thought deliver bars with conviction. Adding to the sample and the rest of the track is the triumphant brass between the verses. The way “Crowns For Kings” transformed “Look What You Done To Me” shows the power of a good loop.

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The Best Amy Winehouse Samples In Hip-Hop

February 2, 2024 by newhiphopnews

With every generation, there are a handful of artists whose talent, reach, and story mark themselves as timeless achievements and souls. Without question, Amy Winehouse is one of the 21st century’s most important exponents in this regard. Her influence ushered in revitalizations of vocal flair, vintage aesthetics, and raw, emotive storytelling and character portraits in popular music. The London singer encompassed so much: powerful songwriting, carefully crafted and intent-driven releases, production that is deeply appreciative of the wide-ranging musical canon, and a truly resonant voice in every way. So it’s no surprise that her love of hip-hop, and so many other genres, drove much of her artistry.

Furthermore, the culture certainly returned the favor, and continues to do so to this day. As recently as October 2023, U.K. rapper Skepta sampled Amy Winehouse’s vocals from her 2006 song “Tears Dry On Their Own” on his aptly titled house cut, “Can’t Play Myself (A Tribute To Amy).” So many rap subgenres and communities appreciated her work: classic boom-bap exponents, Atlanta trap pioneers, Long Beach genre-benders, and some of the biggest artists in the game in general. Across these six picks (in no particular order), the late legend’s legacy lives on through artists and art forms that she championed like few others.

“Tears Dry On Their Own” Dungeon Family Remix – Organized Noize (Released 2011)

Speaking of Skepta’s treatment of this Back To Black cut from 2006, frequent Outkast collaborators -– and some of the best producers out of the South -– also gave it a spin. Amy Winehouse’s vocals, instead of pairing with retro instrumentation with a peppier step, ride over heavy kicks, chopped-up piano melodies and background vocals, and sharp snares, crafting a DJ Screw-esque effect. Of course, this is exactly the type of beat that the Dungeon Family perfected back in the 1990s and 2000s. Despite the aesthetic change, the contralto vocalist’s croons and swells sound even more spotlit and passionate here.

Sure, the mixing quality of this version is a little off, probably because of how its distribution methods have aged. Big Boi originally posted this remix on a website after she passed, and YouTube re-releases of it hit your ears with a lot of fuzz. Bizarrely, though, it adds to the atmosphere of this Amy Winehouse reimagining in a contemporary context. Much like the soul and R&B that inspired so much of her greatness (and that she and frequent production collaborators Mark Ronson and Salaam Remi sampled), it sounds like an unearthed vinyl that becomes a gem for a crate-digger years later, crackling through the speakers with all the passion its performer holds.

“Kush Is My Cologne” – Gucci Mane ft. Bun B, E-40 & Devin The Dude (2009)

Moving over to one of the six-time Grammy Award winner’s most popular songs, Back To Black‘s opener, “Rehab,” is one of her most iconic hooks and instrumentals. Even Gucci Mane took a liking to it, and on his 2009 album The State vs. Radric Davis, he interpolated the chorus for one of his verse lines. “Kush, purp, strong dro, What I need cologne for? They tried to send me to rehab but I said ‘No, no I won’t go,’” he raps on the record. It’s certainly one of the most tonally conflictive but curious examples on this list.

However, we’d be remiss not to mention Jay-Z and Pharoahe Monch’s remixes of “Rehab,” each of which came out around 2008 and warrants a listen. Unfortunately, none of these tracks knew how Amy Winehouse’s career would tragically end. As such, it’s strong whiplash to listen to any version of this song today, yet it doesn’t take away from its potency, its resonance, and its quality as a composition and performance. Also, it’s a reminder that music can affect lives for many different reasons than why lives affected its creation, and few artists can ever transcend their context like this.

“vpn” – Lil Ugly Mane (2021)

Here we have one of the most subtle instances of sampling on the list: a simple drum beat that’s distorted, echoed, and manipulated to make it a hazy, lo-fi driving force. Lil Ugly Mane doesn’t rap on “vpn,” as this is an album (2021’s volcanic bird enemy and the voiced concern) where he goes into more singing, trip-hop inspirations, and a lot of genre and timbre experimentation. So what’s the drum beat that he takes from? It’s from Amy Winehouse’s “You Know I’m No Good” (also off Back To Black), on which Homer Steinweiss is on the kit.

Perhaps the most important thing to remark about “vpn” as it relates to “You Know I’m No Good” is how it’s able to communicate the slightly despondent, melancholy, yet hopeful tone of the original. Lyrically, both artists play a lot with how their inner demons inform their relationships, and they make you feel that push-and-pull with their deliveries. Amy Winehouse’s contributions are as musical as they are personal, as many saw their own troubles reflected in her confidence and honesty. There’s also a great remix of the original featuring Ghostface Killah, which should be another gem for you to add to your queue.

“Half-Time” – Flatbush Zombies Ft. A$AP Twelvyy (2015)

Coming off the New York trio’s non-streaming 2015 EP expansion, Day Of The Dead, this track samples Amy Winehouse’s “Half Time” (with drums courtesy of none other than Questlove) released posthumously on the 2011 project Lioness: Hidden Treasures. With glistening keys, an easy-going but crisp drum beat, and dense staccato bass, this is a classic East Coast boom-bap treatment. Each MC on here flows incredibly well, and the dreamy instrumental evokes the original’s themes of a passion for music. We’re repeating ourselves here, but it’s the truth: few artists could represent this fervor more than the Frank superstar.

Not only that, but this is also one of the most musically complex examples on this list, albeit a simple technique in the grand scheme of things. “Half-Time” switches between loops of two different parts of “Half-Time” to build its progression. A slowdown towards the end makes the dream feel even woozier, and it makes us wonder what amazing collaborations could’ve come from Amy Winehouse and the contemporary lane of sample-based and genre-fusing hip-hop artists. Like everything that was ever great, it leaves us wanting a little more.

“Alyssa Interlude” – Vince Staples (2017)

Now, for what might be the most unique sample choice here, we have Vince Staples’ excellent and experimental 2017 album, Big Fish Theory. On the frantically percussive but atmospherically calming cut “Alyssa Interlude,” the Long Beach MC -– rather, the track’s producer “Zack Sekoff” -– samples an Amy Winehouse interview with Tim Chipping from 2006. “That’s like a real drug, isn’t it?” she says of love. “So when it -– when it didn’t come together, I was just like… you know? It really hurt. But I needed enough distance from it so that it wasn’t, like, raw emotion anymore. But not enough -– enough distance that I’d forget. I’m quite a self-destructive person, so I guess… I guess I keep giving myself material.”

Emotionally, this is a powerful moment considering the English icon’s personal struggles with addiction and mental health. It also means a lot to Vince Staples, as she inspired his 2016 EP Prima Donna and uses this interview to complement his romantic feelings for someone who is no longer there. “A true artist can make you feel both their sorrow and their happiness,” he said of Amy Winehouse’s Back To Black, one of his favorite albums, during a TIDAL Magazine interview. “You feel all of these emotions back to back and transform them into these stories without noticing the shift. Definitely someone who was gone too soon. R.I.P.”

“Cherry Wine” – Nas Ft. Amy Winehouse (2012)

Yeah, we know this isn’t a sample, but we can’t talk about Amy Winehouse and hip-hop without bringing up her strong bond with Nas. He was her crush, as portrayed in her track “Me and Mr. Jones,” and they met up thanks to the producer of “Cherry Wine” and collaborator-in-common, Salaam Remi. This cut, released on Esco’s 2012 album Life Is Good, resulted from a lot of back-and-forth work together, of which they had a lot before she tragically passed. Eventually, the “Valerie” hitmaker’s demo vocals for the song surfaced (which technically makes it a sample), and the Queens legend could pay fitting tribute to his birthday twin. They were born on September 14 exactly a decade apart.

What’s more is that she had previously sampled his 2002 song “Made You Look” on her 2003 release “In My Bed,” both produced by Salaam Remi. Back to “Cherry Wine,” though, Amy Winehouse longs for her soulmate (whom many interpret to be the Illmatic lyricist), as he goes over what he wants in a woman. It’s tender, soulful, well-paced, sonically pristine, and an evocative display of chemistry and appreciation. “We’re just so thankful that her people were so understanding that, you know, this was our homie,” Nas told Power 106 in 2012. “They let us rock out with her music on the album. So, we got love for Amy forever. That’s our sister. Love her.” We’re forever thankful for what these artists did to honor Amy Jade, and even more thankful for what she saw in hip-hop.

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Unforgettable Frankie Beverly Samples In Hip Hop

January 29, 2024 by newhiphopnews

Over the years, many Frankie Beverly samples have made their way into Hip Hop. For decades now, the music the frontman of Maze made with the band has gotten a lot of love in the rap landscape. With his songs, producers and artists have repeatedly created timeless and nostalgic tracks through the art of sampling. Although he hasn’t released new material since the ‘90s, Frankie Beverly has significantly contributed to R&B, and by proxy, Hip Hop gems. Prominent rappers, including the likes of 50 Cent and 2Pac, have sampled the icon’s music at some point. Evidently, there’s a deep appreciation for the music of Frankie Beverly in Hip Hop. Here are some of his most unforgettable samples in the genre.

“Hustler’s Ambition” – 50 Cent

On October 11, 2005, “Hustler’s Ambition” was released as the lead single from the Get Rich Or Die Tryin’ movie soundtrack. Upon its release, it didn’t take long for the song to gain traction and become a moderate hit. While it wasn’t a chart-topper, it became wildly popular and appeared on charts worldwide. At its core, “Hustler’s Ambition” provides a glimpse into 50 Cent’s life. Emphatically, it chronicles his struggles, ambitions, and relentless pursuit of success. The compelling and introspective track resonated with fans for its raw lyrics, evocative storytelling, and melodic production. Additionally, it contains one of the most popular Frankie Beverly samples in Hip Hop. It features vocal and instrumental elements from “I Need You” by Maze ft. Frankie Beverly. These sampled elements appear in several parts throughout the song.

“The Real One” – 2 Live Crew & Ice-T

As far as unforgettable Frankie Beverly Hip Hop samples go, “The Real One” is certainly one of those. The song was released on April 7, 1998, and is the title track of 2 Live Crew’s eighth album. While it was not a massive commercial success, it was a standout track from the album. “The Real One” was especially enjoyed for its sample of the iconic Maze & Frankie Beverly song, “Before I Let Go.” Besides the many times it has been sampled across genres, “Before I Let Go” has been famously covered by Beyonce and Mary J. Blige. For the sample on “The Real One,” 2 Live Crew used Frankie Beverly’s vocals. In addition, many elements of the original beat were retained as well, and can be heard throughout “The Real One.” 2 Live Crew and Ice-T ate their respective verses up, putting the sample to good use.

“Can U Get Away” – 2Pac

One of the greatest Hip Hop samples of a Frankie Beverly song was created on Tupac’s “Can U Get Away.” This soulful offering from the late icon is a track on his critically acclaimed third album, Me Against The World. While it was not released as one of the album’s singles, it is certainly one of its standout tracks. With evocative lyrics, the song delves into the concept of escaping from a toxic environment for the sake of love. 2Pac was also a full-blown romantic on the track, and he wore the hat proudly. Showcasing his storytelling ability, he vividly painted the picture of a woman trapped in a toxic relationship, and urged her to break free. “Can U Get Away” contains a sample of Frankie Beverly’s “Happy Feelin’s.” The sample, in combination with the beat, creates a soulful and melodic backdrop for 2Pac’s heartfelt lyrics.

“These Days” – Nate Dogg Ft. Daz Dillinger

While it’s been over a decade since Nate Dogg sadly passed away, his legacy powerfully lives on through songs like “These Days.” It was released as a part of the King of Hook’s debut album, G-Funk Classic, Vol. 1 & 2 (1998). Both Nate Dogg and Daz Dillinger deliver on their verses, and the iconic hook brings it all together. Of the many Frankie Beverly samples present in Hip Hop, the one on “These Days” is arguably the easiest to miss. However, this is precisely why it is so fun to point out and sticks with listeners afterward. Like 2 Live Crew’s “The Real One,” the sampled track on “These Days” is Beverly’s “Before I Let Go.” The sample comes in at the 2:41 mark on “These Days,” and only then. Go give it a listen now to hear what exactly Nate Dogg borrowed from Frankie Beverly’s song.

“Go Ahead In The Rain” – A Tribe Called Quest

A Tribe Called Quest released their critically acclaimed debut album on April 10, 1990. One of the tracks that make up the alternative Hip Hop masterpiece is “Go Ahead In The Rain.” Although it is not among the group’s most popular tracks, the song has been appreciated by listeners since 1990. It samples a special rendition of “Joy And Pain” by Frankie Beverly. The version that is sampled is from the Live In Los Angeles album Maze and Frankie Beverly released in 1986. About 30 seconds into “Go Ahead In The Rain,” the sample kicks in. The interesting vocal sample is taken from the 0:21 mark of “Joy and Pain (Live in Los Angeles).” Although no additional elements are borrowed from the song, that one vocal sample significantly contributes to “Go Ahead in the Rain.” It can be heard throughout the song.

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Chaka Khan’s 7 Hottest Samples In Hip Hop: Kanye, Eminem, & More

January 9, 2024 by newhiphopnews

It’s certainly not news that Hip Hop has a long history and lasting relationship with sampling. While many samples exist in Hip Hop, not many artists have been sampled as much as Chaka Khan. The musical legacy of the iconic singer is further preserved through samples from many songs in Hip Hop. All things considered, her indirect contributions to Hip Hop make her something of a star within the genre as well.

Over the years, a plethora of Hip Hop tracks have seamlessly integrated the soulful sounds of Chaka Khan’s discography. Brilliant acts like Eminem and Kanye West have borrowed from Khan to create fire tracks of their own. Interestingly, the singer was not very pleased with how West sampled a song of hers, and she has said so several times over the years. However, she finally seems to have had a change of heart and recently shared that she’s letting go of her “silly grudge” with Ye over the sample. Here’s a list of some of the hottest Hip Hop songs that contain samples from Chaka Khan.

7. “Strawberry Peels” – Lil Uzi Vert ft. Young Thug & Gunna

Eternal Atake (Deluxe) was released on March 13, 2020, and contains 32 songs, one of which is “Strawberry Peels.” While the track is less than two minutes long, it’s a favorite among some Lil Uzi Vert fans. It contains a sample from “Never Miss the Water” (1996) by Chaka Khan ft. Meshell Ndegeocello. The iconic high note that opens “Never Miss the Water” also appears within the first few seconds of “Strawberry Peels.” While this sample only shows up at the very beginning, it is unmistakable.

6. “F**k Em All” – 2Pac ft. Outlawz

Better Dayz, the fourth posthumous album by late Hip Hop icon 2Pac, was released on November 26, 2002. Several songs on the album contain samples, including the title track and “Late Night,” among others. The sample on “F**k Em All” is from Chaka Khan’s song “The Message in the Middle of the Bottom” off her 1978 debut album. However, it’s the instrumental, rather than her voice, that is sampled on “F**k Em All.”

5. “High Expectations” – Common

Before the documentary film Soul in the Hole was released in August 1997, its eponymous soundtrack album dropped on July 29, 1997. “High Expectations” is one of the 15 tracks contained in the album and one of its standouts. Additionally, the Hip Hop song samples the 1980 Chaka Khan gem “Move Me No Mountain.” It is one of a handful of rap songs that sample the groovy ‘80s track. With sampling only growing in popularity, “Move Me No Mountain” will very likely be sampled again in the future.

4. “Gerald” – G-Eazy ft. Anthony Hamilton

This track was released on September 24, 2021, as a part of G-Eazy’s sixth studio album, These Things Happen Too. “Gerald” offers a compelling glimpse into the artist’s introspective side, as well as his personal journey. It also masterfully samples the hook of Chaka Khan’s 1988 track “Baby Me.” The slowed-down iteration of “Baby Me” that plays in the background throughout “Gerald” sits on the track just right and completes the song.

3. “Bagpipes From Baghdad” – Eminem

Known for its controversial lyrics and catchy production, “Bagpipes From Baghdad” was released as a part of Eminem’s sixth album, Relapse. It is one of those Hip Hop samples of a Chaka Khan song barely noticeable in the track. However, fans of the Queen of Funk would definitely be able to pick it up, regardless. In this case, the sampled track is “I Feel for You,” and the sampled material shows up at the 2:32 mark.

2. “Therapy” – Cormega

While Cormega’s second album, The True Meaning, did not achieve widespread commercial success, it was critically praised. With songs like “Therapy” on the album, it makes sense that it would receive critical acclaim. The Hip Hop track samples a song from the iconic Chaka Khan album I Feel For You (1984). The shimmery notes that open Khan’s “Stronger Than Before” are slightly sped up and looped throughout Cormega’s “Therapy.” It serves as the perfect sonic backdrop for the emcee to lay his cold bars, and he does exactly that.

1. “Through The Wire” – Kanye West

“Through the Wire” is inarguably one of the most iconic Hip Hop songs that samples Chaka Khan. Over the years, the veteran songstress has expressed her displeasure with the sample. Contrarily, however, many listeners of Kanye West’s music are diehard fans of the track. Similar to the 2004 Ye track, the sampled Chaka Khan song is titled “Through the Fire.” The soulful and melodic sample complements West’s introspective lyrics. Additionally, the use of the sped-up sample became a signature element in the rapper’s early production style, helping to define his sound. Without a doubt, “Through the Wire” remains a standout track in West’s extensive catalog, and its impact can partly be credited to the iconic Chaka Khan sample.

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The 7 Best Sample Flips Of “12 Days Of Christmas”

December 11, 2023 by newhiphopnews

Sample flipping transcends genres by breathing new life into countless classics. Weaving the old and new, the mesh of sounds ties together both nostalgia and modernity. One such classic that has been interpolated, reused, and revamped is “12 Days Of Christmas.” Undoubtedly, the song, popularized by Frederic Austin, is among the most sampled Christmas tunes of all time across genres.

The original song is anything but Hip Hop or R&B. However, over the years, many artists have flipped the tune, creating excellent Hip Hop and R&B renditions. While there are many great examples, we have curated a short list of some of the best ones to check out. Here are seven of the best sample flips of “The 12 Days Of Christmas.”

7. “Baddie On My Wish List” – Fivio Foreign

On November 30, 2020, Fivio Foreign flipped “12 Days Of Christmas” for his holiday record, “Baddie On My Wish List.” The song is a Christmas-themed Apple Music exclusive, and one of the more interesting sample flips of “12 Days of Christmas.” Besides the obvious difference in genres, the lyrical content in Fivio’s rendition is also quite different from the original. In detail, on the first day of Christmas, Fivio Foreign did not receive a partridge in a pear tree. Instead, he says he put a baddie on his wish list. The rapper has many different things on his mind than turtle doves and gold rings. Its modern twist on “The 12 Days Of Christmas,” is something we are here for.

6. “12 Days Of Christmas” – Gucci Mane

Gucci Mane released “12 Days Of Christmas” as a part of his commercial mixtape East Atlanta Santa 3 on December 20, 2019. This track contains a sample flip of the OG version of the song. However, the beat also contains a sample flip of “Carol Of The Bells,” another Christmas staple. Gucci Mane’s trap offering of the classic song is a bop, to say the least. He may veer off the path of the original song a lot, but that’s part of what makes his version so good.

5. “Angels Are Singing” – Jordin Sparks

A charming and festive tune, “Angels Are Singing” is a Pop and R&B record by the talented Jordin Sparks. The song was released for digital download on November 27, 2011 on iTunes and Amazon. Moreover, it is the theme song for the ABC television movie 12 Dates Of Christmas subsequently released on December 11, 2011. On “Angels Are Singing,” Sparks takes the lyrics and melodies of “12 Days Of Christmas” and infuses it with R&B flair. The end product is a record that evokes nostalgia while appealing to their modern musical palate.

4. “12 Days Of Christmas” – Jamie Foxx

Veteran actor and musician Jamie Foxx has also taken a spin with the popular holiday tune. His R&B rendition was featured in the movie Hip Hop Family Christmas Wedding (2022). While he mostly follows the melody and progression of the OG version, the lyrics of Foxx’s version are very different. For example, his true love gave him “four Birkin bags,” “11 Lamborghinis,” and “10 tennis braces,” among other things. Besides the expensive gifts at the core of his rendition, this version of the song is sure to get listeners moving.

3. “12 Days Of Christmas” – Pentatonix

Pentatonix is known for their intricate musical arrangements and harmonies. Over the years, the group has covered several holiday classics, interpreting them in interesting ways each time. Likewise, on their rendition of “12 Days Of Christmas,” they deliver another interesting vocal performance. Pentatonix is one of the most popular acapella groups in the world, and considering their catalog, they have earned their fame. “12 Days Of Christmas” is completely driven by the voices of the group’s five members. Regardless, the absence of an instrumental is barely felt, which is honestly quite iconic.

2. “12 Days” – Ginuwine

“12 Days” is the fifth track on Ginuwine’s eighth studio album, A Ginuwine Christmas. Released on October 11, 2011, the 10-track album contains covers of Christmas classics, including “Joy to the World,” and “Silent Night.” While “12 Days” was not released as a single like the aforementioned tracks, it remains one of the album’s standouts. Ginuwine’s R&B interpretation of “12 Days Of Christmas” is smooth, yet striking. Certainly, it deserves its spot on this list, and is one of the most iconic sample flips of the iconic holiday song.

1. “8 Days Of Christmas” – Destiny’s Child

Containing arguably the most iconic sample flip of “12 Days of Christmas,” this song is one of Destiny’s Child’s most recognizable holiday offerings. “8 Days Of Christmas” is the title track and lead single of the group’s fourth studio album. The production blends Hip Hop and R&B elements, creating a modern and upbeat holiday track. In addition, the arrangement includes catchy melodies and intricate harmonies that elevate the track.

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7 Times Hip-Hop Referenced “The Exorcist”

October 4, 2023 by newhiphopnews

The Exorcist continues to haunt viewers to this day. Fifty years after its initial theatrical release, it still stands as a seminal piece of work in the horror genre. However, beyond horror, its long-lasting impact on pop culture remains prominent. By extension, hip-hop has similarly immortalized the film’s legacy over the years, whether referencing Linda Blair’s portrayal of Regan or samples of “Tubular Bells Pt. 1″ by Mike Oldman.” So, with Exorcist: The Believer hitting theatres on Friday, Oct. 6th, we decided to round up 7 times hip-hop has referenced the iconic horror film.

Jay- Z – “D’Evils”

My flesh no n***a could test, my soul is possessed
By D’evils in the form of diamonds and Lexuses
The Exorcist got me doin’ sticks
Like, “Homie, you don’t know me
But the whole world owe me, strip!”

On the highlight from Reasonable Doubt, Jay-Z references the iconic horror film but not in a way that discusses exercising demons. Instead, he speaks on the lust for material possessions and the lengths people will reach to obtain luxury goods.

Kanye West – “Mercy” Ft. Pusha T, 2 Chainz & Big Sean

Check the neck, check the wrist
Them heads turnin’: that’s exorcist
My Audemars like Mardi Gras
That’s Swiss time, and that’s excellence

Although a brief mention of The Exorcist, the reference to the infamous scene involving Linda Blair helps Pusha T portray his lavish lifestyle. Not one to hold back on his fashion sensibilities, Pusha T issues a firm reminder that he’s making a massive statement with his jewels every time he steps out.

Freddie Gibbs – “Forever & A Day”

Taken from his classic 2015 album, Shadow Of A Doubt, producers J Reid and Speakerbomb craft a haunting beat for one of Freddie Gibbs’ most vulnerable cuts in his catalog. The producers chop up Mike Oldman’s “Tubular Bells,” slowing down the sample and transforming it into an even more chilling soundscape.

Cypress Hill – Stoned Raiders

While the theme song for The Exorcist has been sampled on numerous occasions – beyond Freddie Gibbs’ “Forever & A Day” – there are a number of artists who’ve sampled the film itself. For example, Cypress Hill’s “Stoned Raiders” from 1995’ III: Temples of Boom. Produced By DJ Muggs, the California weed-smoking group samples Father Lankester Merrin’s dialogue in the middle of the exorcism of Regan.

$uicideboy$ – “Memoirs Of A Gorilla”

Perhaps the most subtle reference included in this list comes from the $uicideboy$. On their 2016 project, Radical $uicide, they dished out “Memoirs Of A Gorilla,” which actually samples Regan’s laugh. It’s a subtle sound effect that creeps into the song’s intro, adding eerie textures to the grim soundscape.

Nicki Minaj’s 2012 Grammy Performance

What was intended to be a glorious win in Nicki Minaj’s rap career turned into a controversial performance. In 2012, the rapper debuted her single, “Roman’s Holiday,” on the Grammy stage, equipped with a theatrical backdrop that boasted plenty of religious references, including a man dressed as a bishop and a fake priest. But, the performance ultimately centered around her alter-ego, Roman Zolanski, who was in need of an exorcism. Dubbed “The Exorcism Of Roman Zolanski,” Nicki delivered a contentious yet memorable performance that paid homage to the classic horror film.

Three 6 Mafia – “Threesixafix”

It wouldn’t be right to exclude Three 6 Mafia from this list, especially when you consider their contribution to the horrorcore genre. DJ Paul’s affinity for horror movies has been well-documented throughout the years. “Threesixafix” stands as a notable deep cut in Three 6 Mafia’s vast catalog and appeared on E-40 and B-Legit’s Southwest Riders compilation. On “Threesixafix,” they transform Mike Oldman’s “Tubular Bells Pt. 1” into a gritty Memphis banger filled with ostentatious, murderous bars that are only fitting for Halloween.

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Havoc Debunks Myth About Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones, Part II”

July 7, 2023 by newhiphopnews

We’ve all heard the opening seconds of Mobb Deep’s “Shook Ones, Part II”: A gas stove getting lit, clicking over and over until it turns into the cymbal beat of the song. It’s iconic and classic at this point. This became Mobb’s most popular song back in 1994. And while the stove sample is legendary, New York rapper Havoc is here to set the record straight. Via the SiriusXM radio show WkndWork, Havoc talked about how they got that sound and that the real story isn’t as cool as the myth that it came from an actual burner stove.

“You know when a myth [takes] a life of its own? You just be like, f*ck it, you don’t wanna hurt nobody’s feelings,” Havoc said in the interview. “So you just agree with the myth. I [will] be like, ‘Alright, f*ck it. Yeah, it’s from the stove.’” However, while people believe it’s a stovetop providing the sound behind the song, it’s actually a hi-hat. According to Havoc, “The truth of the matter is that the hi-hat that I used on the actual track of ‘Shook Ones’ sounds similar to a project stove.”

How Havoc Helped Make “Shook Ones, Part II”

Mobb Deep was a hip-hop duo that rose to prominence in the 90s, right when hip-hop was taking off into mainstream consumption. It consisted of Havoc and Prodigy, two rappers working off each other and creating inventive sounds, like the hi-hat “stove” on “Shook Ones, Part II.” Sadly, Prodigy passed away in 2017 due to sickle cell anemia complications. The musical artist was 42 when he died.

As for Havoc, he conducted the SiriusXM interview while celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. “Shook Ones, Part II” was Mobb Deep’s most well-known track, showcased in Eminem’s movie 8 Mile. Havoc was known for creating new sounds with Mobb Deep’s music, including using a Herbie Hancock piano sample from the song “Jessica.” He slowed down the piano and altered it so that it gave an eerie vibe. He was so creative that people thought he used a real stove for the beat!

Read more: Remembering Prodigy Of Mobb Deep

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