If you’re a fan of hip-hop and the iconic rapper MF DOOM, you’ve probably come across his track “One Beer” from his critically acclaimed album “Mm.. Food”. This song is not only celebrated for DOOM’s intricate wordplay and smooth flow, but also for its impeccable use of samples that add depth and richness to the track. One of the most notable samples in “One Beer” comes from the 1975 song “Huit Octobre 1971” by the French jazz-funk band Cortex.
Cortex’s “Huit Octobre 1971” is a masterful piece of music that blends jazz, funk, and soul elements effortlessly. Its groovy bassline, melodic keys, and captivating rhythm serve as the backbone of DOOM’s “One Beer”. By incorporating this sample, DOOM pays homage to the original work and infuses it with his unique style, creating a mesmerizing fusion of genres that resonates with listeners.
The sample from “Huit Octobre 1971” forms the basis of the instrumental in “One Beer”. It sets the mood and provides a solid foundation for DOOM’s lyrical storytelling. The way the sample is looped and reimagined showcases DOOM’s prowess as a producer, as he transforms the original jazz-funk sound into a hip-hop masterpiece.
What makes the use of this sample even more impressive is how it seamlessly integrates with DOOM’s own production style. He adds layers of drums, additional instruments, and intricately chopped vocal samples, giving “One Beer” its distinctive sound. The combination of DOOM’s production skills and his ability to curate the perfect sample creates a sonic experience that takes the listener on a journey.
“One Beer” not only samples “Huit Octobre 1971” but also incorporates other samples to enhance its overall composition. DOOM’s attention to detail and his ability to source and blend these samples demonstrates his depth as an artist. Each sample adds a unique element to the track, contributing to its overall texture and complexity.
The art of sampling in hip-hop is not simply about borrowing from other songs. It’s about recontextualizing and reinterpreting existing music to create something entirely new. DOOM’s use of the “Huit Octobre 1971” sample in “One Beer” exemplifies this artistic process, where elements from different genres and eras converge to form a cohesive and captivating musical experience.
By incorporating samples from songs like “Huit Octobre 1971”, DOOM not only pays tribute to the original artists but also invites us to discover and appreciate their work. He acts as a bridge between generations and genres, reminding us of the timeless quality of music and its ability to resonate across time and space.
“One Beer” is a prime example of how sampling can elevate a song to new heights. It showcases the artistry and creativity of both MF DOOM and the original musicians, reminding us of the interconnectedness of music and the beauty that emerges when different pieces come together harmoniously.
So next time you listen to “One Beer”, take a moment to appreciate the brilliance of DOOM’s sampling technique and the influence of “Huit Octobre 1971” by Cortex. It’s a testament to the power of music and the magic that can happen when artists from different times and places collaborate, even if it happens through the medium of sampling.
And with that, the journey of “One Beer” takes on a whole new meaning, bringing together the past and the present in a symphony of sounds.
