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“Amen Brother” by The Winstons

One of the most sampled tracks in history, “Amen Brother” features the famous “Amen Break,” a six-second drum solo that has been used in countless songs across genres, particularly in hip-hop and electronic music. Released in 1969, this track has influenced a myriad of artists, from N.W.A to The Prodigy. Its infectious rhythm and energy continue to resonate, making it a staple in music sampling. The drum break’s versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various musical styles, demonstrating its timeless appeal. Over the decades, the “Amen Break” has evolved from a simple rhythm to a cultural phenomenon, symbolizing the spirit of innovation in music. Artists continue to find new ways to incorporate it, ensuring its legacy endures.
“Think (About It)” by Lyn Collins

Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It)” is another powerhouse in the sampling world. The song’s catchy hook, “Yeah!,” has been sampled by numerous hip-hop artists, including the likes of Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock. Released in 1972, the track showcases Collins’ powerful vocals and has become synonymous with the funk genre, leaving a lasting impact on music. The song’s upbeat tempo and energetic vibe make it a favorite for artists looking to add a punch to their tracks. Its influence extends beyond music, permeating pop culture in various forms. The resonance of “Think (About It)” lies in its ability to evoke emotion and nostalgia, making it a timeless classic.
“Funky Drummer” by James Brown

James Brown’s “Funky Drummer” is a quintessential track in the realm of sampling. The song features one of the most famous drum breaks in music history, played by drummer Clyde Stubblefield. Since its release in 1970, it has been sampled over 1,000 times, making it a favorite among hip-hop producers. The raw energy and rhythm of this track continue to inspire new generations of musicians. Its influence is pervasive, shaping the sound of entire genres and inspiring countless artists. “Funky Drummer” serves as a testament to the power of rhythm and groove, showcasing the profound impact a simple drum pattern can have on music. The track’s enduring popularity underscores its status as a cornerstone in music history.
“La Di Da Di” by Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick

“La Di Da Di,” released in 1985, is a classic hip-hop track that has been sampled extensively in various genres. Its playful lyrics and catchy beat have made it a favorite among artists, with notable samples in songs by Miley Cyrus and The Notorious B.I.G. The track’s influence on hip-hop culture is undeniable, showcasing the art of storytelling through music. Its simplicity and creativity have resonated with artists and audiences alike, making it a timeless piece. The song’s playful nature and infectious energy continue to capture the imagination of new generations. “La Di Da Di” exemplifies the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines hip-hop, cementing its place in music history.
“I Want You Back” by The Jackson 5

The Jackson 5’s “I Want You Back” is a timeless classic that has been sampled in numerous tracks, including those by artists like 2Pac and The Notorious B.I.G. Released in 1969, the song’s infectious melody and upbeat rhythm have made it a favorite for sampling, bridging the gap between generations and genres. Its universal appeal lies in its catchy hooks and joyful energy, making it a favorite across various musical styles. The song’s enduring popularity highlights its status as a cultural touchstone, representing the power of music to bring people together. “I Want You Back” continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring its place in music history.
“Apache” by The Incredible Bongo Band

“Apache” is a track that has transcended its original release in 1973 to become a hip-hop staple. The song’s iconic breakbeat has been sampled in countless tracks, making it a go-to for DJs and producers alike. Its influence can be seen in the works of artists such as Nas and The Sugarhill Gang, solidifying its place in music history. The enduring appeal of “Apache” lies in its versatility and infectious rhythm, which continue to captivate artists and audiences. The track’s iconic status underscores its role as a foundational element in the evolution of hip-hop and breakbeat music. Its legacy is a testament to the power of innovation and creativity in music.
“Good Times” by Chic

Chic’s “Good Times,” released in 1979, is a disco anthem that has been sampled extensively in hip-hop and dance music. The song’s bassline has been the foundation for numerous hits, including “Rapper’s Delight” by The Sugarhill Gang. Its catchy groove and infectious rhythm continue to inspire artists across genres, making it a timeless classic. The song’s influence extends beyond music, permeating pop culture and becoming a symbol of celebration and joy. “Good Times” serves as a reminder of the power of music to uplift and unite, showcasing the enduring appeal of disco and funk. Its legacy is a testament to the creativity and innovation that define music.
“The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five

“The Message,” released in 1982, is a groundbreaking hip-hop track that has been sampled by many artists over the years. Its powerful lyrics and social commentary have made it a significant piece of music history. The song’s influence can be seen in the works of contemporary artists, showcasing the lasting impact of its message. The track’s raw honesty and powerful storytelling have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “The Message” represents the power of music as a tool for social change and self-expression, highlighting the importance of authenticity and creativity in hip-hop. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Super Freak” by Rick James

Rick James’ “Super Freak” is a funk classic that has been sampled in numerous hip-hop tracks, most notably by MC Hammer in “U Can’t Touch This.” Released in 1981, the song’s catchy hook and infectious beat have made it a favorite for sampling, bridging the gap between funk and hip-hop. The track’s infectious energy and playful lyrics have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless hit. “Super Freak” serves as a testament to the power of funk and its influence on modern music, showcasing the enduring appeal of groove and rhythm. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring its place in music history.
“Nautilus” by Bob James

Bob James’ “Nautilus,” released in 1974, is a jazz fusion track that has been sampled by countless hip-hop artists. Its smooth melodies and intricate arrangements have made it a favorite among producers, with notable samples in tracks by Eric B. & Rakim and Jay-Z. The song’s influence on the hip-hop genre is undeniable, showcasing the versatility of sampling. The track’s fusion of jazz and hip-hop elements has resonated with artists, making it a timeless piece. “Nautilus” represents the power of innovation and creativity in music, highlighting the importance of collaboration and experimentation. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“C.R.E.A.M.” by Wu-Tang Clan

Wu-Tang Clan’s “C.R.E.A.M.” is a seminal hip-hop track that has been sampled and referenced in numerous songs. Its powerful lyrics and iconic beat have made it a cornerstone of hip-hop culture. The song’s impact on the genre is profound, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of modern hip-hop. The track’s raw honesty and powerful storytelling have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “C.R.E.A.M.” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and social change, highlighting the importance of authenticity and creativity in hip-hop. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Ain’t No Sunshine” by Bill Withers

Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine,” released in 1971, is a soulful classic that has been sampled in various hip-hop and R&B tracks. Its emotional depth and haunting melody have resonated with artists, making it a favorite for sampling. The song’s influence can be seen in the works of contemporary artists, showcasing its timeless appeal. The track’s raw honesty and powerful storytelling have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “Ain’t No Sunshine” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and emotional connection, highlighting the importance of authenticity and creativity in music. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown

Another entry from James Brown, “I Got You (I Feel Good)” is a funk anthem that has been sampled in numerous tracks. Its infectious energy and catchy hook have made it a favorite among hip-hop producers, bridging the gap between funk and rap. The song’s impact on music history is significant, showcasing the power of sampling. The track’s infectious energy and playful lyrics have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless hit. “I Got You (I Feel Good)” serves as a testament to the power of funk and its influence on modern music, showcasing the enduring appeal of groove and rhythm. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring its place in music history.
“Take Me to the Mardi Gras” by Bob James

Bob James’ “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” is another jazz fusion track that has been extensively sampled in hip-hop. Its smooth melodies and intricate arrangements have made it a favorite among producers, with notable samples in tracks by Run-D.M.C. and A Tribe Called Quest. The song’s influence on the hip-hop genre is undeniable, showcasing the versatility of sampling. The track’s fusion of jazz and hip-hop elements has resonated with artists, making it a timeless piece. “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” represents the power of innovation and creativity in music, highlighting the importance of collaboration and experimentation. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Walk on By” by Dionne Warwick

Dionne Warwick’s “Walk on By,” released in 1964, is a classic soul track that has been sampled in various hip-hop and R&B songs. Its emotional depth and haunting melody have resonated with artists, making it a favorite for sampling. The song’s influence can be seen in the works of contemporary artists, showcasing its timeless appeal. The track’s raw honesty and powerful storytelling have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “Walk on By” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and emotional connection, highlighting the importance of authenticity and creativity in music. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Kashmir” by Led Zeppelin

Led Zeppelin’s “Kashmir” is a rock classic that has been sampled in numerous hip-hop tracks. Its epic sound and powerful instrumentation have made it a favorite among producers, with notable samples in tracks by Puff Daddy and Jay-Z. The song’s impact on music history is significant, showcasing the power of sampling across genres. The track’s epic sound and powerful instrumentation have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “Kashmir” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and artistic exploration, highlighting the importance of creativity and innovation in music. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Soul Makossa” by Manu Dibango

Manu Dibango’s “Soul Makossa,” released in 1972, is a funk classic that has been sampled in various hip-hop and dance tracks. Its infectious groove and catchy hook have made it a favorite for sampling, bridging the gap between funk and hip-hop. The song’s influence can be seen in the works of contemporary artists, showcasing its timeless appeal. The track’s infectious groove and catchy hook have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless hit. “Soul Makossa” serves as a testament to the power of funk and its influence on modern music, showcasing the enduring appeal of groove and rhythm. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring its place in music history.
“The Breaks” by Kurtis Blow

Kurtis Blow’s “The Breaks,” released in 1980, is a pioneering hip-hop track that has been sampled in numerous songs. Its catchy beat and playful lyrics have made it a favorite among artists, showcasing the art of storytelling through music. The song’s impact on hip-hop culture is undeniable, influencing countless artists and shaping the sound of modern hip-hop. The track’s raw honesty and powerful storytelling have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “The Breaks” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and social change, highlighting the importance of authenticity and creativity in hip-hop. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.
“Express Yourself” by Charles Wright & the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band

“Express Yourself” is a funk anthem that has been sampled in numerous hip-hop tracks. Its powerful message and infectious groove have made it a favorite among producers, bridging the gap between funk and rap. The song’s influence on music history is significant, showcasing the power of sampling. The track’s infectious groove and powerful message have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “Express Yourself” serves as a testament to the power of funk and its influence on modern music, showcasing the enduring appeal of groove and rhythm. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain, ensuring its place in music history.
“Bizarre Love Triangle” by New Order

New Order’s “Bizarre Love Triangle,” released in 1986, is a synth-pop classic that has been sampled in various dance and electronic tracks. Its catchy melody and infectious beat have made it a favorite for sampling, bridging the gap between genres. The song’s impact on music history is significant, showcasing the power of sampling across generations. The track’s infectious melody and catchy beat have resonated with audiences, making it a timeless classic. “Bizarre Love Triangle” represents the power of music as a tool for self-expression and artistic exploration, highlighting the importance of creativity and innovation in music. Its legacy continues to inspire and challenge artists, ensuring its place in music history.


Christian Wiedeck, all the way from Germany, loves music festivals, especially in the USA. His articles bring the excitement of these events to readers worldwide.
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