Questlove on Sampling, Earth, Wind & Fire and the Evolution of Hip-Hop | Billboard On The Record
Sampling has shaped some of the most influential music of the last 50 years — and Questlove has been there for much of its evolution. The musician and music historian joins Billboard’s Kristin Robinson for Billboard On The Record for a conversation about his Earth, Wind & Fire documentary — Earth, Wind & Fire (To […]
Questlove, a musician and music historian, joined Billboard's Kristin Robinson for a conversation about the history of sampling and the evolution of hip-hop. They discussed his Earth, Wind & Fire documentary, which explores two different interpretations of the band's legacy. Sampling has played a significant role in shaping some of the most influential music of the last 50 years, and Questlove has been at its core throughout this evolution.
Questlove explained that a record is essentially the capture of a compelling performance, an audio snapshot or moment in time. He emphasized that the reason sampling works is due to the idea of a community creating something together. In June 1988, Public Enemy's It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back released, marking a turning point in music history.
Questlove shared his experience of discovering his father's record collection, which reignited his interest in music. This sentiment echoed Robinson's point that a lot of older music is changing hands, leading to a surge of catalog sales. Record companies are reaching out to artists like Questlove to utilize their work. For Questlove, this offers an appealing sense of outlaw-ness, similar to the legalization of weed. Additionally, individuals with a rebellious spirit may feel compelled to use copyrighted material.
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