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The rich tapestry of soul and funk music from the late 1960s to the early 1980s offers a treasure trove of tracks that, while perhaps not achieving mainstream acclaim, possess the depth and groove that make them ripe for contemporary hip-hop reinterpretation. The charming gems of music featuring emotional singing, complex percussion, and instrumental work serve excellently as source material for producers looking for authentic sound samples. This article explores underappreciated soul and funk compositions that should be remixed for modern hip-hop music.
- The Funky 16 Corners” by The Highlighters
The Highlighters, originating from Indianapolis, produced “The Funky 16 Corners,” which showcases deep funk through its energetic horn sections and grabby rhythm. The song gained popularity only within its region but failed to achieve national recognition, so it stands as a promising option for rediscovery.
“The Funky 16 Corners” contains several energetic breaks with brass instruments that provide plenty of material for beat producers who want to add retro funk energy to their tracks. This song and many others are available on Tracklib for beat producers searching for Where to Find Royalty-Cleared Music Samples.
- “Kashmere” by Kashmere Stage Band
Under the direction of Conrad Johnson, the Kashmere Stage Band from Houston, Texas, produced “Kashmere.” The band demonstrated its exceptional musical ability through tight arrangements. Its unique sound, blending traditional funk with youthful exuberance, remained largely under the radar during its active years. This track’s energetic musical elements and complex rhythm create an ideal sonic foundation for hip-hop sampling that feels new but nostalgic.
- “Dance with Me” by Wilson Pickett
The 1978 album “A Funky Situation” by Wilson Pickett contains “Dance with Me,” a danceable R&B and disco fusion song that stands outside typical recognition. This song’s rhythm and memorable hooks make it the perfect material for sampling purposes, enabling producers to transform its elements into hip-hop production.
- “Fire (She Need Water)” by Wayne McGhie and the Sounds of Joy
While living in Toronto, Jamaican artist Wayne McGhie recorded “Fire (She Need Water)” with the Sounds of Joy in 1970. The track united soul music with funk and reggae elements but went unheard because of inadequate distribution and the fire that burned down most of the inventory. This track’s rhythmic patterns and melodic structures provide exclusive sound samples for hip-hop productions that demand distinct musical elements.
- “Dap Walk” by Ernie & The Top Notes
The brass instruments and powerful bassline drive the funk track “Dap Walk,” by Ernie & The Top Notes. The catchy rhythm of this song remained unknown to mainstream audiences because it failed to gain popularity. This track’s spirited breaks and rhythmic patterns became valuable sources hip-hop producers used to add authentic funk elements to their beats.
- “Let’s Go (It’s Summertime)” by James Reese & The Progressions
The soulful song “Let’s Go (It’s Summertime)” by James Reese & The Progressions brings out the summer spirit through its enthusiastic musical elements and joyful vocal expressions. It received modest reception when it first came out. However, its memorable hooks and rhythmic structure provide perfect elements for reimagining hip-hop.
- “The Dump” by Soul Vibrations
Soul Vibrations’ “The Dump” is a funk instrumental that showcases tight musicianship and a compelling groove. Its lack of mainstream success has kept it under the radar, but its rhythmic foundation and instrumental breaks offer excellent sampling opportunities for hip-hop producers.
Endnote
The soul and funk eras left behind a goldmine of underappreciated tracks. Despite their catchy grooves and distinct musical qualities, these songs are less known, serving as excellent sources for hip-hop sampling today. Producers who revive forgotten gems from the past can create fresh musical blends between historical classics and modern productions. Future hip-hop artists can build their new beats on these tracks, maintaining the authentic spirit of classic funk and soul music.