Feel it in your Soul
Soul beats have a profound impact on hip-hop, providing a rich backdrop that enhances the emotional depth and lyrical prowess of many tracks. Here are ten great hip-hop songs that feature soul beats, showcasing their powerful blend of technique and emotion.
1. Kanye West - "Through the Wire"
Sample: Chaka Khan – “Through the Fire”
Technique and Emotion: Kanye’s use of a pitched-up Chaka Khan sample creates an uplifting yet poignant backdrop, perfectly complementing his raw, personal lyrics about his car accident and recovery. The soulful sample adds depth and authenticity to his story.
2. Jay-Z - "Song Cry"
Sample: Bobby Glenn – “Sounds Like a Love Song”
Technique and Emotion: The melancholic piano loop from Bobby Glenn’s track provides a somber, reflective mood, enhancing Jay-Z’s introspective lyrics about lost love and regret. The soul sample’s emotional weight deepens the narrative.
3. Common - "The Light"
Sample: Bobby Caldwell – “Open Your Eyes”
Technique and Emotion: The warm, melodic sample from Bobby Caldwell’s song infuses the track with a heartfelt, romantic vibe. Common’s sincere lyrics about love and relationships are perfectly underscored by the soulful instrumental.
4. J. Cole - "Crooked Smile"
Sample: Jennifer Hudson – “No One Gonna Love You”
Technique and Emotion: The soulful sample from Jennifer Hudson’s song adds a hopeful, uplifting feel to J. Cole’s introspective lyrics about self-acceptance and perseverance. The emotional resonance of the beat amplifies the song’s positive message.
5. Kendrick Lamar - "Sing About Me, I’m Dying of Thirst"
Sample: Grant Green – “Maybe Tomorrow”
Technique and Emotion: The hauntingly beautiful guitar sample from Grant Green’s track provides a contemplative backdrop for Kendrick’s narrative-driven lyrics. The soulful beat enhances the emotional impact of his storytelling.
6. Nas - "It Ain't Hard to Tell"
Sample: Michael Jackson – “Human Nature”
Technique and Emotion: The iconic Michael Jackson sample creates a nostalgic, soulful vibe that complements Nas’s intricate lyricism. The familiar melody adds a layer of warmth and accessibility to the track.
7. The Notorious B.I.G. - "Juicy"
Sample: Mtume – “Juicy Fruit”
Technique and Emotion: The smooth, funk-infused sample from Mtume’s song gives the track a celebratory, feel-good atmosphere. Biggie’s rags-to-riches story is enhanced by the soulful beat, making it an anthem of triumph.
8. 2Pac - "Do for Love"
Sample: Bobby Caldwell – “What You Won’t Do for Love”
Technique and Emotion: The soulful melody from Bobby Caldwell’s track adds a romantic, introspective tone to 2Pac’s lyrics about love and loyalty. The beat’s emotional depth enriches the personal nature of the song.
9. Ghostface Killah - "All That I Got Is You"
Sample: The Jackson 5 – “Maybe Tomorrow”
Technique and Emotion: The heartfelt sample from The Jackson 5 provides a tender, nostalgic backdrop for Ghostface’s deeply personal lyrics about his childhood struggles. The soul beat’s warmth and familiarity enhance the emotional storytelling.
10. Drake - "Champagne Poetry"
Sample: Masego – “Navajo”
Technique and Emotion: The soulful sample from Masego’s track creates a lush, introspective atmosphere for Drake’s reflective lyrics. The beat’s emotional richness supports the contemplative nature of the song.
Conclusion
Soul beats continue to be a cornerstone of hip-hop, offering a powerful combination of emotional depth and musical richness. These tracks demonstrate how soul samples can elevate hip-hop songs, providing a timeless quality that resonates with listeners. If you’re inspired by these legendary tracks, explore and buy soul beats from Empire Soul to create your own masterpiece.
