The Art of Sampling Music: Corny Copying or Creative Modernization

Music sampling is an art form that has been an integral part of the music industry for decades. It is a technique that allows artists to take pre-recorded sounds and incorporate them into a new piece of music, creating something entirely new and unique. From the early days of hip-hop to the modern-day experimentation of electronic producers, music sampling has played a vital role in shaping the soundscapes of our favorite songs. 

One of the most iconic examples of music sampling is the use of Chic's "Good Times" in The Sugarhill Gang's "Rapper's Delight." This song not only helped launch the career of the Sugarhill Gang, but it also cemented the place of hip-hop in the music industry. The catchy bassline and infectious rhythm of "Good Times" provided the perfect foundation for the pioneering rap lyrics of "Rapper's Delight" to soar on. It's a perfect example of how a sample can be used to create something new and exciting while still paying homage to the original source. Another example of music sampling that has stood the test of time is the Amen break. This drum sample, taken from The Winstons' "Amen, Brother," (The drum break at 1:26) has been used in thousands of songs (WhoSampled says 6023) across various genres, including "Straight Outta Compton" by N.W.A. It's a testament to the timeless nature of the sample that it continues to be used in new and exciting ways. This sample has become a staple in the hip-hop genre, and it's hard to imagine the genre without it.

While music sampling has undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping the sound of popular music, it has also been a source of controversy. Many artists and copyright holders believe that using samples without permission is a form of copyright infringement. This has led to numerous legal battles over the use of samples in music. However, as technology has advanced and it's become easier to create and manipulate samples, the trend of music sampling has shifted. Nowadays, we're seeing more and more experimentation with samples in genres like hip-hop and electronic music. With the advancement of technology, it's easier to create new and unique sounds, leading to an increase in the use of samples in genres like hip-hop and electronic music.

I think a more recent conversation is about whether sampling is actually creative or not. Because yes we can find numerous examples of artistic geniuses chopping, pitching, looping, and patching different sounds together to make a hell of a beat. But other times not as much. 2022 saw a trend in bringing back late 90’s early 2000 pop samples into tracks, most famously on Jack Harlow’s “First Class” which sampled Fergie’s “Glamorous.” Other examples are Kay Flock’s “Shake It,” Tjay’s “In My Head,” Tiktok used Paramore’s “Still Into You” and gave it the drill treatment, Central Cee’s “Doja”  and “Let Go” (Central Cee LOVES old bangers). I could keep going but you get the point. Some samples can be a little uninspired. They’re just using a chorus, either straight up or just the melody, and putting it in the track. I feel like I’m being tricked into liking the song because I know better. I know that this is strictly to go viral on Tiktok and to capitalize off the success and likeness of another track but I still like it. Regardless I think there’s a discussion to be had on the creative merit of this sampling but to be completely honest, who the fuck cares? I feel like music elitists on Twitter love putting music into this box that they can critique and objectively compare whilst completely missing the point that music is for everyone and is subjective. Similar to the Tyler tweet about cyberbullying (we do not condone cyberbullying btw) just turn off the music if you don’t like it. Jack Harlow’s mainstreamification does not ruin music. You can listen to whatever you like, and samples, as long as they are used legally of course, embrace culture and connect eras. It’s always fun to hear popular songs you heard when you were younger pop up again, especially in a dichotomous way. 

As music bloggers and enthusiasts, it's important to recognize the impact that music sampling has had on the industry. From the early days of hip-hop to the modern-day experimentation of electronic producers, sampling has allowed artists to push boundaries and create new sounds. It has also played a vital role in preserving the music and making it accessible for future generations. Sampling is a bridge that connects two eras together, with a rich history, and is essential to the progress of music and creativity. It's important to acknowledge the contributions of the past and how they have shaped the present and will shape the future. Music sampling is a vital part of music history, and it's essential to embrace and understand it in order to fully appreciate the evolution of music.

Furthermore, sampling is not only an art but also a form of expression, it's a way for an artist to showcase their influences and pay homage to the artists who have come before them. To dismiss music sampling is to dismiss entire genres of music and the experiences that have shaped our culture as we know it. We can't deny the impact that artists like DJ Shadow, Kanye West, J Dilla, Madlib, Q-Tip, RZA, and Alchemist have had on the music industry, and their contributions would not be possible without the art of sampling. It's not just about taking a sound and using it, but it's about using that sound in a new and creative way, adding a new dimension and meaning to it. Music sampling is an art that has played a crucial role in shaping the soundscapes of our favorite songs, and it will continue to do so in the future.