I love a great original song. One where the lyrics and melody feel like they were written just for you. The songs that hit you in the depths of your soul and make you reminisce on cherished memories. There’s nothing like it. While many of us love original songs, song samples have proven to be just as effective. Some of our favorite 90’s tracks wouldn’t have existed without samples from the incredible songs that came before them. I must admit, I am a bit biased when it comes to song samples especially in today’s music where everyone seems to be sampling 90’s R&B. I’m sure that’s the same feeling my parents had when their favorite songs were sampled by up and coming artists as well. Le sigh…We are going to kick this list off with some of my favorite sampled tracks that are considered staples in 90’s music. Are you ready? Let’s go!!
The Notorious B.I.G – Juicy
I cannot start this list off without mentioning one of the biggest samples in Hip-Hop history. This song ushered in a new wave of mixing timeless tracks from the past and fusing them into songs we love. This classic Notorious B.I.G song samples the 1983 song Juicy Fruit by Mtumes. While both songs are great, the Biggie sample just hits different.
LL Cool J- Hey Lover
This smooth melodic tune from LL Cool J had all the ladies wanting to be the one he had a crush on. Add in Boyz II Men and you have a recipe that is sure to be a win for everyone. This song samples Michael Jackson’s “The Lady in My Life” from his 1982 masterpiece Thriller. Produced by none other than Quincy Jones, the original song is pure seduction, and the sampled version stayed true to that aura.
Missy Elliott – Da Rain (Supa Dupa Fly)
Whew Chillay where do I begin? I love, love, love this song from Missy! She and Timbaland really created a timeless masterpiece. The verses are animated and fun, the 1973 Ann Peebles sample of “I Can’t Stand the Rain” fits the theme effortlessly. Using the sample as the chorus with a crazy beat is a match made in heaven. This is one of those songs that as soon as the beat drops you immediately start bobbing your head. I’m Vicky Vicky Vicky Vicky Vicky!!!!
I hope you all have enjoyed this list. Let me know below what are some of your favorite sampled tracks? You might put me on to something new…
Disregard my previous comment, confused it with another song. You can delete my comment