Classic Hip Hop Samples That Have Been Used in Pop Songs

Hip hop music has had a major impact on music worldwide and has influenced many genres. One of the main ways that hip hop has influenced other genres is through the use of samples. Sampling involves taking an existing recording and reusing it in a new composition. The use of samples in hip hop music has been prevalent since the genre's early days, and many of these samples have become classics in their own right.

In this article, we will explore classic hip hop samples that have been used in pop songs. These samples have been used in many popular mainstream songs, often creating a bridge between rap and pop music. Let's dive in and take a look at some of these iconic samples.

1. James Brown's "Funky Drummer"

James Brown is one of the most sampled artists in hip hop, and his song "Funky Drummer" has been sampled countless times. The song features a drum solo that has been used in many hip hop classics, including "Fight the Power" by Public Enemy and "Breakadawn" by De La Soul. However, the sample has also been used in pop songs, including "U Can't Touch This" by MC Hammer. The sample was used to create the iconic drum beat for the chorus, helping to make the song a hit.

2. The Honeydrippers' "Impeach the President"

The Honeydrippers' song "Impeach the President" features a powerful drum break that has been used in many hip hop classics. The song has been sampled in "Eric B. Is President" by Eric B. & Rakim and "Nobody Beats the Biz" by Biz Markie. However, the sample has also been used in pop songs, including "Bring Em Out" by T.I. The drum break was used to create the beat for the song's chorus, adding a hip hop element to the pop tune.

3. Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean"

Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" is one of the most iconic pop songs of all time, and it has been sampled in many hip hop songs. The song's bassline has been used in "Don't Stop the Music" by Rihanna and "Shoutout to My Ex" by Little Mix. The bassline creates a danceable groove, adding an infectious energy to the pop songs.

4. The Jackson 5's "I Want You Back"

The Jackson 5's "I Want You Back" is a classic pop song that has been sampled in many hip hop tracks. The song's opening guitar riff has been used in "Izzo (H.O.V.A.)" by Jay-Z and "ABC" by The Jackson 5. The riff creates a catchy melody that has become synonymous with the song, making it a classic in its own right.

5. Funkadelic's "Get Off Your Ass and Jam"

Funkadelic's "Get Off Your Ass and Jam" is a classic funk song that has been sampled in many hip hop tracks. The song's heavy bassline has been used in "The Humpty Dance" by Digital Underground and "Warm It Up Kane" by Big Daddy Kane. The bassline adds a funk element to the hip hop songs, creating a groovy and danceable vibe.

6. The Isley Brothers' "Footsteps in the Dark"

The Isley Brothers' "Footsteps in the Dark" is a soulful ballad that has been sampled in many hip hop songs. The song's smooth guitar riff has been used in "Between the Sheets" by The Isley Brothers and "Big Poppa" by The Notorious B.I.G. The riff creates a relaxed and chilled-out mood, adding a soulful element to the hip hop tunes.

7. Lyn Collins' "Think (About It)"

Lyn Collins' "Think (About It)" is a funk classic that has been sampled in many hip hop songs. The song's drum break has been used in "It Takes Two" by Rob Base and D.J. E-Z Rock and "Atomic Dog" by George Clinton. The drum break has become a staple in hip hop music, creating a funky and danceable beat.

Conclusion

Hip hop music has had a major impact on music worldwide, and the use of samples has been a major part of the genre's success. Many classic hip hop samples have been used in pop songs, creating a bridge between two genres and adding a unique element to mainstream music. These samples have become classics in their own right and have helped to push music forward. As hip hop continues to evolve, we can expect to see more classic samples being used in pop songs, creating new and exciting sounds.