10 Of The Most Sampled Black Songs In Music History
Some songs don’t just become hits — they become part of music history forever.
Over the years, Black artists have created records so influential that generations of musicians continue sampling them across hip-hop, R&B, pop, dance, and even country music. From iconic drum breaks to unforgettable vocals and basslines, these songs helped shape the sound of modern music as we know it.
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Here are 10 of the most sampled Black songs in music history.
1. “Amen, Brother” – The Winstons
The six-second “Amen Break” from this song may be the most famous drum break ever created. It has been sampled thousands of times across hip-hop, electronic music, pop, and drum & bass records for decades.
2. “Funky Drummer” – James Brown
James Brown’s influence on sampling culture is almost impossible to measure. “Funky Drummer” became one of the foundational records for hip-hop production thanks to Clyde Stubblefield’s legendary drum pattern.
3. “Think (About It)” – Lyn Collins
This song gave the world one of the most recognizable sounds in music history: “Yeah! Woo!” That vocal break has appeared in countless songs, commercials, and DJ sets over the years.
4. “Outstanding” – The Gap Band
From hip-hop to R&B slow jams, “Outstanding” has been sampled and interpolated for generations. The smooth groove helped inspire countless songs that followed.
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5. “Before I Let Go” – Frankie Beverly & Maze
This song became a cultural anthem at cookouts, family reunions, weddings, and parties everywhere. Its influence stretches across generations and continues appearing in samples and remakes today.
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6. “Computer Love” – Zapp & Roger
The futuristic synths and talkbox sound from “Computer Love” helped shape the sound of West Coast hip-hop and modern R&B for decades.
8. “Between the Sheets” – The Isley Brothers
“Between the Sheets” became one of the most sampled R&B songs ever thanks to its smooth instrumentation and timeless vibe. Artists across multiple genres continue pulling inspiration from it today.
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9. “Juicy Fruit” – Mtume
The groove behind “Juicy Fruit” became legendary after inspiring classics like The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Juicy.” Even outside of hip-hop, the song remains one of the most recognizable samples in music.
10. “Love T.K.O.” – Teddy Pendergrass
Teddy Pendergrass created one of the smoothest soul records ever recorded with “Love T.K.O.” The song’s emotional vocals and production have continued inspiring artists for decades.
