My Bass Rocks

Kraftwerk will forever be remembered in rap history through their single “Trans Euro Express.”  During hip-hop’s infant stage, Afrika Bambaataa sampled this track to create the classic “Planet Rock” (1982).  Since then, abstract samples have become a staple in the music, and have ultimately constructed the culture as we know it.  That being said, Kraftwerk played a huge role in the conception of hip-hop and deserves all the recognition that is rightfully theirs.

Recently, I came to find out that “Trans Euro Express” isn’t the only track sampled from the group…

Last weekend I was on my regular vinyl hunt, when I ran across a copy of MC Lyte’s “Cha Cha Cha” (1989) on 12.”  I had heard this track before, but had yet to really sit down and give it a proper listen.  Here it is:

MC Lyte: “Cha Cha Cha”

After giving it a couple plays, I immediately remembered a Jay-Z single from 1997 by the name of “Sunshine.” During middle school this was my first introduction to Jigga, so the sample is pretty engraved into my head.  Check it out (note the green suit/getting his Puff Daddy on):

After digging a little deeper, I came to find out that the main sample comes from a Kraftwerk song entitled “Man Machine (live version)”:

Since Kraftwerk managed to stay relevant for so many years in hip-hop, it’s only a matter of time before some random producer dusts off their old electronic collection and keeps the trend going.  Regardless, this group was definitely ahead of their time and has cemented their name as true pioneers in their respected genre.

Rock Rock Planet Rock…