What’s Love Got to Do With Hip-Hop? Everything, It Seems.
The realm of music recently bid a heartfelt farewell to Tina Turner, the resilient Empress of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Turner’s legendary performances and passionate vocals made her a commanding musical force. Beyond her impact on rock music, Turner’s 1984 hit, “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” has emerged as a precious gem among hip-hop artists for sampling, ensuring her enduring influence across diverse genres.
What’s Love Got to Do With “What’s Luv?”
Unveiling the dawn of the new millennium, Fat Joe, accompanied by Ashanti, revealed the chart-topping sensation “What’s Luv?” (2001). The track skillfully merged R&B and hip-hop, reimagining “What’s Love Got to Do With It” with an urban essence, resonating with a fresh wave of listeners.
The Notorious Impact of Tina Turner
During the Golden Age of Hip-Hop in 1994, The Notorious B.I.G. ingeniously intertwined Tina’s timeless masterpiece, subtly infusing it into the tapestry of “Machine Gun Funk,” showcasing Biggie’s artistry in crafting a rich sonic mosaic.
J. Cole: Soaring with Turner’s Melody
J. Cole’s “How High” (2011) embodies the introspective stylings of the rapper, magnificently incorporating a generous sample of Turner’s iconic chorus. The outcome was a profound composition, further solidifying Cole’s remarkable ability to metamorphose rap into poetic verses.
Nas’s Street Dreams Resonate with Tina Turner
“Street Dreams” by Nas (1996) employed the melodic threads of Turner’s composition, contrasting them with the rapper’s evocative lyrics, accentuating the contemplative undertones of the track. It serves as an excellent testament to the transformative prowess of hip-hop sampling.
Captivating Audiences with a Timeless Classic
Fast forward to 2018, Fat Joe and Dre, accompanied by Chris Brown, unveiled “Attention,” reigniting the spotlight on Turner’s harmonies. The track artfully harnessed the melodic core of the original piece, forming the rhythmic backbone of this captivating creation.
What’s Love Got to Do With Warren G?
In his rendition titled “What’s Love Got to Do With It” (1996), Warren G, featuring Adina Howard, fashioned a direct homage to Turner’s magnum opus. While preserving the melodic essence, the additional layers of rap infused the song with a rejuvenating and contemporary vibe.
What’s Clef Got to Do With It?
In 1998, Wyclef Jean, accompanied by Naomi Campbell, unleashed “What’s Clef,” skillfully integrating elements of Turner’s renowned piece to enrich his track while maintaining the true essence of the original song.
Tina Turner’s 1984 hit, “What’s Love Got to Do With It,” continues to hold a prominent place in the world of hip-hop sampling, serving as a testament to the profound influence of this powerhouse artist.
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