Episode 3

Echoes of Genius: The Art, Fight & Payments Behind Music Sampling

Dive into the world of music sampling as hosts Jay Ray and DJ Sir Daniel explore iconic stories, legendary samples, and the art—and controversy—behind borrowing beats. From the golden age of hip-hop to modern pop sensations, this episode unpacks how sampling shaped Black music’s legacy, fueled rap’s biggest hits, sparked multi-million dollar lawsuits, and gave new life to classic artists. Discover the cultural impact, business battles, and creative genius at the heart of music sampling.

Topics Covered:

  • The cultural significance of music sampling in hip-hop and R&B
  • Black Music Month and its connections to sampling history
  • Iconic sample stories, including Janet Jackson’s "If," MC Hammer’s "U Can’t Touch This," Robin Thicke’s "Blurred Lines," and Run DMC’s "Walk This Way"
  • Sample clearance: what it means, why it matters, and famous legal battles (Tracy Chapman vs. Nicki Minaj, Beyoncé, De La Soul, Marvin Gaye Estate vs. Robin Thicke)
  • Sampling as a bridge between generations and genres
  • How samples revived classic artists’ careers and gave royalties to legends
  • Deep dives into rap classics like "Rapper’s Delight" and "Ill Be Missing You"
  • The importance of credit, royalties, and protecting artists’ work
  • Personal favorites: top sample-based tracks that always get the party started
  • Business decisions: the risks, rewards, and costs of sampling in today’s music industry
  • The role of streaming platforms and changes from physical CDs to digital music
  • Fun sample recognition games and shoutouts to producers like DJ Premier, Q-Tip, and Roc Marciano

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About the Podcast

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Queue Points

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About your hosts

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DJ Sir Daniel

DJ Sir Daniel is a DJ/Selector and part of Atlanta's, all-vinyl crew, Wax Fundamentals. Co-host of the Queue Points podcast, he is an advocate for DJ culture and is passionate about creating atmospheres of inclusivity and jubilation from a Black perspective.

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Jay Ray

Johnnie Ray Kornegay III (Jay Ray) is a podcast consultant and co-host and producer of Queue Points, the Ambie Award-nominated podcast that drops the needle on Black music history. In addition to his duties at Queue Points, he is the Deputy Director of Strategy and Impact for CNP (Counter Narrative Project). A photographer, creative consultant and social commentator, Jay Ray's work is centered around a commitment to telling full and honest stories about communities often ignored.