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1️⃣ “Change the Beat” – Fab 5 Freddy / Beside (1982) 🎤
“Change the Beat” by Fab 5 Freddy and Beside is a juggernaut in the world of sampling. The phrase “Ahhh, this stuff is really fresh!” has been embedded in over 3,000 songs, making it the most sampled vocal snippet in history. The track’s reach extends across genres, from hip-hop and pop to electronic music. Eric B. & Rakim’s “Paid in Full” and Missy Elliott’s “Work It” are among the prominent tracks that have used this famous sample. DJs have also embraced it, finding its timeless quality perfect for mixing and scratching. The widespread use of this sample highlights its adaptability, making it an enduring part of music production.
2️⃣ “Amen, Brother” – The Winstons (1969) 🥁
The Winstons’ “Amen, Brother” is legendary for its Amen Break, a six-second drum solo that revolutionized multiple music genres. This drum break is a staple in hip-hop, jungle, and drum & bass, providing a rhythmic foundation that countless producers have built upon. Tracks like N.W.A’s “Straight Outta Compton” and Prodigy’s “Firestarter” have prominently featured this break. Its influence goes beyond genre boundaries, demonstrating its versatility and the creative possibilities it offers. The Amen Break’s legacy is a testament to the power of a simple yet effective musical element.
3️⃣ “Funky Drummer” – James Brown (1970) 🥁🎷
Clyde Stubblefield’s drum break in James Brown’s “Funky Drummer” is one of the most iconic in music history. Artists like Public Enemy with “Fight the Power” and Dr. Dre with “Let Me Ride” have used this break to create powerful, rhythmic tracks. The break’s infectious groove has captivated producers and musicians, making it a beloved sample in hip-hop and beyond. Its role in shaping the sound of modern music underscores the lasting impact of James Brown and his band. The “Funky Drummer” break remains a go-to sample for those seeking to infuse their music with energy and rhythm.
4️⃣ “Think (About It)” – Lyn Collins (1972) 🎤
Lyn Collins’ “Think (About It)” is celebrated for the “Woo! Yeah!” break, a sample that has found its way into countless tracks. Rob Base & DJ E-Z Rock’s “It Takes Two” and Snoop Dogg’s “Ain’t No Fun” are notable examples of its use. The break’s catchy hook and dynamic energy have made it a favorite for artists across various genres. Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, allowing it to enhance any track it touches. The enduring popularity of this sample speaks to the creativity it inspires in producers worldwide.
5️⃣ “La Di Da Di” – Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick (1985) 🎤
“La Di Da Di” by Doug E. Fresh & Slick Rick is a quintessential hip-hop track that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. The song’s memorable lyrics and melody have been sampled by artists such as The Notorious B.I.G. in “Hypnotize” and Beyoncé in “Party.” Its storytelling and playful vibe capture the essence of hip-hop’s golden age, making it a perennial favorite. The track’s influence continues to be felt as new generations of artists draw inspiration from its innovative style. “La Di Da Di” remains a touchstone for creativity and lyrical prowess.
6️⃣ “Impeach the President” – The Honey Drippers (1973) 🥁
The Honey Drippers’ “Impeach the President” is renowned for its crisp drum intro, a sample that has become a cornerstone in hip-hop. Tracks like Nas’s “I Can” and The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Unbelievable” have utilized this iconic beat to great effect. The track’s catchy rhythm and political undertones make it a powerful tool for producers. Its continued relevance is a testament to its ability to resonate with audiences and inspire impactful music. The enduring legacy of this sample highlights the importance of rhythm in shaping the sound of contemporary music.
7️⃣ “Synthetic Substitution” – Melvin Bliss (1973) 🥁
Melvin Bliss’s “Synthetic Substitution” features a drum break that has been a staple in golden-age hip-hop. Notable tracks like Naughty by Nature’s “O.P.P.” and Wu-Tang Clan’s “Bring da Ruckus” have incorporated this break to create dynamic, engaging music. The sample’s infectious rhythm and groove have made it a favorite among producers and DJs. Its enduring popularity underscores the creativity and innovation it inspires in the world of music production. The track’s continued use is a testament to its powerful impact on the hip-hop landscape.
8️⃣ “Ashley’s Roachclip” – The Soul Searchers (1974) 🎷
“Ashley’s Roachclip” by The Soul Searchers offers a drum break that has been widely sampled in hip-hop from the ’80s and ’90s. Tracks like Eric B. & Rakim’s “Paid in Full” and Milli Vanilli’s “Girl You Know It’s True” have utilized this sample to create memorable music. The break’s catchy rhythm and groove make it a sought-after element for producers seeking to craft danceable tracks. Its influence is evident in its shaping of hip-hop and R&B sounds over the decades. The sample’s popularity continues as it remains a key ingredient in the music-making process.
9️⃣ “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” – Bob James (1975) 🎺
Bob James’s “Take Me to the Mardi Gras” is famous for its opening drum break, a sample that has found its way into numerous tracks. Run-D.M.C.’s “Peter Piper” and Missy Elliott’s “Work It” are among the notable songs that have incorporated this break. The track’s infectious rhythm and catchy melody make it a favorite among producers and artists. Its legacy persists as a go-to sample for contemporary musicians looking to infuse their music with energy and flair. The continued use of this sample highlights its significant impact on modern music.
🔟 “UFO” – ESG (1981) 🚀
ESG’s “UFO” features a spacey guitar loop and drums that have been sampled in various tracks, including Public Enemy’s “Fight the Power” and Beastie Boys’ “Egg Man.” The track’s unique sound and groove make it a favorite for producers seeking to create innovative music. Its influence is evident in the way it has shaped hip-hop and electronic music over the years. The sample’s continued popularity underscores its versatility and the creative possibilities it offers. ESG’s “UFO” remains a key inspiration for artists pushing musical boundaries.
1️⃣1️⃣ “Apache” – Incredible Bongo Band (1973) 🥁
The Incredible Bongo Band’s “Apache” is celebrated for its bongo break, a DJ favorite that has found its way into numerous tracks. Sugarhill Gang’s “Apache” and Nas’s “Made You Look” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s infectious rhythm and groove make it a staple in hip-hop and dance music. Its enduring popularity underscores the creativity of the artists who have sampled it over the years. “Apache” continues to be a beloved sample for those seeking to create engaging, rhythmic music.
1️⃣2️⃣ “God Make Me Funky” – The Headhunters (1975) 🎷
The Headhunters’ “God Make Me Funky” features a drum intro that has been widely sampled in tracks like Nas’s “N.Y. State of Mind” and De La Soul’s “Transmitting Live from Mars.” The track’s catchy beat and infectious energy have made it a favorite for producers aiming to create impactful music. Its legacy continues as it remains a go-to sample for contemporary artists. The enduring appeal of this sample highlights its significance in shaping the sound of modern music.
1️⃣3️⃣ “Long Red” – Mountain (1972) 🎸
Mountain’s “Long Red” offers a live audience chant and drums that have been sampled in various tracks. Jay-Z’s “99 Problems” and Kanye West’s “The Glory” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s unique sound and groove make it a favorite for producers seeking to create innovative music. Its influence is evident in its shaping of the sound of hip-hop and rock over the years. The continued popularity of this sample underscores its versatility and creative potential.
1️⃣4️⃣ “More Bounce to the Ounce” – Zapp (1980) 🔊
Zapp’s “More Bounce to the Ounce” features a funky bassline and synth that have been sampled in numerous tracks. 2Pac’s “California Love” and The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Going Back to Cali” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s infectious rhythm and groove make it a staple in hip-hop and R&B. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the creativity of the artists who have sampled it over the years. The sample’s continued use highlights its significant impact on modern music.
1️⃣5️⃣ “Blind Alley” – The Emotions (1972) 🎶
“Blind Alley” by The Emotions features a piano and horns that have been sampled in various tracks. Big Daddy Kane’s “Ain’t No Half-Steppin'” and Salt-N-Pepa’s “Tramp” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s catchy melody and infectious energy make it a favorite for producers aiming to create impactful music. Its legacy continues to thrive as it remains a go-to sample for contemporary artists. The enduring appeal of this sample highlights its significance in shaping the sound of modern music.
1️⃣6️⃣ “I Gotcha” – Joe Tex (1972) 🎤
Joe Tex’s “I Gotcha” features gritty vocal snippets that have been sampled in numerous tracks. Wu-Tang Clan’s “Protect Ya Neck” and Beastie Boys’ “Hold It Now, Hit It” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s unique sound and groove make it a favorite for producers seeking to create innovative music. Its influence is evident in its shaping of the sound of hip-hop and R&B over the years. The continued popularity of this sample underscores its versatility and creative potential.
1️⃣7️⃣ “Sing a Simple Song” – Sly & The Family Stone (1968) 🎸
Sly & The Family Stone’s “Sing a Simple Song” features a drum break that has been widely sampled in tracks like N.W.A’s “Gangsta Gangsta” and Cypress Hill’s “Insane in the Brain.” The track’s infectious rhythm and groove make it a staple in hip-hop and R&B. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the creativity of the artists who have sampled it over the years. The sample’s continued use highlights its significant impact on modern music.
1️⃣8️⃣ “Schoolboy Crush” – Average White Band (1975) 🎺
“Schoolboy Crush” by Average White Band features a drum intro and guitar riff that have been sampled in numerous tracks. Eric B. & Rakim’s “Microphone Fiend” and Nas’s “Halftime” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s catchy beat and infectious energy make it a favorite for producers aiming to create impactful music. Its legacy continues to thrive as it remains a go-to sample for contemporary artists. The enduring appeal of this sample highlights its significance in shaping the sound of modern music.
1️⃣9️⃣ “Between the Sheets” – The Isley Brothers (1983) 💽
The Isley Brothers’ “Between the Sheets” features a smooth R&B groove that has been sampled in various tracks. The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Big Poppa” and Da Brat’s “Funkdafied” are among the notable uses of this sample. The track’s catchy melody and infectious energy make it a favorite for producers aiming to create impactful music. Its legacy continues to thrive as it remains a go-to sample for contemporary artists. The enduring appeal of this sample highlights its significance in shaping the sound of modern music.
2️⃣0️⃣ “Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic” – Isaac Hayes (1969) 🎹
Isaac Hayes’s “Hyperbolicsyllabicsesquedalymistic” features a piano groove and beat that have been widely sampled in tracks like Public Enemy’s “Black Steel in the Hour of Chaos” and DJ Shadow’s “Midnight in a Perfect World.” The track’s unique sound and groove make it a favorite for producers seeking to create innovative music. Its influence is evident in its shaping of the sound of hip-hop and R&B over the years. The continued popularity of this sample underscores its versatility and creative potential.
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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