There is a lot of criticism when technological advances are first introduced, but to be honest, the emergence of ‘sampling’ in the hip-hop music genre was a game changer in a positive way. In the right hands, it combines the essence of ‘two turntables and one mic’ with limitless creativity that sparks within the confines of a recording studio. In the process, hip-hop has indirectly collaborated with artists from multiple genres, exhibiting its diverse styles and sensibilities. Here are some of the diamonds that have blossomed from using jazz music as hip-hop’s muse.
Breaking Bells – Crash Crew / “Take Me To Mardi Gras” Bob James
In the early days of rap music, musicians recreated what was being talked about on the radio so that rappers could get their point across. “Take Me to Mardi Gras” deviated from the formula and put it back in the box. It took him a minute or so to recognize the band playing, but it was a harbinger of what was to come. This song by Bob James (a jazz remake of a Simon and Garfunkel song) has been sampled at least 500 times, most notably Gina Thompson’s remix of “The Things You Do” (an evil Missy Elliott poem). ) and “Peter Piper”. by Run DMC.
Follow the Leader — Eric B. and Rakim Allah / “I Change Nothing” Cork Escobedo. “Nautilus” Bob James
Accomplished multi-genre percussionist Cork Escovedo’s track combined with Bob James’s oft-used “Nautilus,” Rakim Allah, one of the top five hosts of all time, lyrically takes the earth. An explosive track that left was born, and his voice blended in seamlessly. tracking. As an aside, the album Follow the Leader was reimagined for a jazz project under the same name in 2019 with Platinum Credit producer Jonathan Hay at the helm. This album climbed to the top of the album charts. signboard jazz chart.in an interview with signboard Rakim told the magazine: “I have always thought of my voice as an instrument. I also pay attention to how words fill the space on the melody, how to push the boundaries a little bit…it all comes from studying jazz.”
New York State of Mind—Nas/”Mind Rain” Joe Chamber
For about 40 seconds into the song “Mind Rain,” it feels like the piano showcase is about to begin as soon as Joe Chamber finishes warming up. But at about the 1-minute mark, a menacing development begins that makes the perfect backdrop for the kingpin denizens of Rapp’s dungeon. The son of a jazz musician, Nas matched the tone and mood when he portrayed the dark side of The Queen’s Bride in cinematic visuals.
Theme (It’s Party Time) — Tracy Lee / “Mt. Airy Groove” “Piece of a Dream”
Known for their abstract and unconventional nature, elements of jazz, funk, soul and dance often join the mix. That intro breakbeat of “Mt.” Airy Groove’ was his DJ favorite at the jam, but it wasn’t a beat that allowed the host to get his point across effectively. The Hitmen Collective’s producers D-Dot and Ron “Amen La” Lawrence kept the original’s jazz/funk influences intact while finding the perfect spot for rapper Tracy Lee to skate. i got you.
Stakes Is High De La Soul / “Swahililand”, Ahmad Jamal. “Mind Power” James Brown
No list of anything related to hip-hop music would be complete without the contributions of the great producer J Dilla. De La delivers a harrowing message with cool, deft demeanor on tracks that combine Jamal’s sophisticated jazz-funk with Brown’s raw street-funk.