Sampling – the art of weaving together pre-existing musical fragments into something entirely new – has given birth to some of the most iconic and unforgettable songs in music history. This isn't just about borrowing a melody; it's about creating a dialogue between generations, reimagining familiar sounds in unexpected and exciting ways. To celebrate the ingenuity and artistry behind this powerful technique, we've compiled a list of tracks that masterfully utilize samples, showcasing the breadth and depth of musical creativity. From the unexpected twists of a pop superstar's unexpected reimagining of a classic sound to the soulful collaborations that seamlessly blend genres, these songs demonstrate the enduring power of sampling to create something both fresh and deeply resonant.
The artists featured on this list represent a diverse range of styles and eras, yet they're united by their ability to transform familiar sounds into something truly unique. Their work highlights the transformative power of sampling, illustrating how seemingly disparate musical elements can be interwoven to create something entirely new and captivating. Whether it's a hip-hop anthem built on a soul classic, or a pop song that recontextualizes a familiar melody, these songs prove that great music can be born from the creative reimagining of the past. These tracks are not just about nostalgia; they're about appreciating the innovative spirit that pushes musical boundaries. Prepare to be surprised, moved, and perhaps even discover a new appreciation for the subtle artistry of sampling.
| Song | Artist | Album | Listens |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Look What You Made Me Do | Taylor Swift | reputation | 1B+ |
| 2. Wild Thoughts | DJ Khaled ft. Rihanna | 1B+ | |
| 3. Stan | Eminem ft. Dido | 745M+ | |
| 4. Maria Maria |
Santana The Product G&B | Supernatural (Remastered) | 579M+ |
| 5. Sing For The Moment | Eminem | The Eminem Show | 552M+ |
| 6. Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! | ABBA | Voulez-Vous | 467M+ |
| 7. Paper Planes | M.I.A. | 292M+ |
1. Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor Swift - 2025)
"Look What You Made Me Do" Taylor Swift's 2017 comeback single, stands apart from her previous work, not only for its sharply worded lyrics but also for its innovative use of sampling. Unlike the mellower tones of some of her other hits, this track boasts a bold, electronic sound, heavily influenced by the iconic bass line from Right Said Fred's "I'm Too Sexy." This sample isn't merely a background element; it's a foundational component, driving the song's rhythm and contributing significantly to its assertive, defiant mood. The bass line is incorporated directly, providing a recognizable yet transformed backbone to the track, enhancing its overall impact and memorable quality. Its powerful use helped propel the song to immediate success, becoming a cultural touchstone for its era and a testament to Swift's artistic evolution. The song's audacious sound, paired with its controversial lyrics, helped solidify its place in pop culture history.
2. Wild Thoughts - 2025
Does the irresistible groove of DJ Khaled's "Wild Thoughts" featuring Rihanna and Bryson Tiller, leave you breathless? This chart-topping hit, fueled by its infectious sample of Carlos Santana's "Maria," became a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its sultry vocals and undeniably catchy rhythm. Rihanna's powerful performance is frequently highlighted, but Bryson Tiller's contribution shouldn't be overlooked. The song’s success speaks volumes about the power of blending classic Latin influences with contemporary R&B, creating a sound that resonated deeply with listeners across various musical tastes, ultimately solidifying its place as a modern R&B classic. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to its masterful production and the undeniable star power of its vocalists.
3. Stan (2000)
Eminem's "Stan" featuring Dido, masterfully samples the melancholic piano melody and vocal hook from Dido's "Thank You." The sample, used almost verbatim, forms the emotional core of the song, contrasting Dido's serene vocals with Eminem's raw, aggressive verses. This juxtaposition creates a chilling effect, highlighting the stark difference between Stan's obsessive admiration and the detached reality of his idol. The sample's calming effect underscores the unsettling narrative of Stan's descent into madness, making the song's dark themes even more impactful. "Stan" is critically acclaimed not only for its powerful storytelling but also for its innovative and emotionally resonant use of sampling, showcasing the transformative power of repurposing existing material.
4. Maria Maria (1999)
Dive into the vibrant soundscape of Santana's "Maria Maria" featuring The Product G&B. This Grammy Award-winning track, a chart-topping sensation, masterfully samples the instrumental from Wu-Tang Clan's "Wu-Tang Clan Ain't Nuthing ta Fuck Wit," specifically the memorable instrumental section accompanying the title lyrics. The sample isn't merely replicated; it's artfully woven into a new tapestry, its rhythmic core transformed and infused with Santana's signature Latin-infused rock and blues elements. This clever integration of hip-hop and Latin influences, driving the song's infectious melody and rhythm, contributes significantly to "Maria Maria's" enduring appeal and widespread acclaim. The song's success highlights the power of creative sampling in forging a unique and unforgettable sonic identity.
5. Sing For The Moment (Eminem)
Eminem's "Sing for the Moment" stands out as a masterful example of sampling, seamlessly blending the iconic piano riff and soaring chorus of Aerosmith's "Dream On" into a powerful hip-hop anthem. The sample isn't merely a background element; it forms the core melodic structure, with Steven Tyler's vocals becoming the chorus, punctuated by Eminem's chanted "Sing!" and "Sing with me!" This integration isn't a direct lift; instead, the familiar "Dream On" elements are woven into a new context, enhancing both the emotional impact and the song's unique sound. The result garnered widespread critical acclaim, praised for its innovative fusion of rock and hip-hop, proving a chart-topping success in numerous countries. Joe Perry's guitar solo further elevates the track's impressive blend of genres.
6Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!
ABBA
1979
Voulez-Vous
7Paper Planes
M.I.A.
2007
8Ready or Not
The Fugees
1996
9C.R.E.A.M
Wu-Tang Clan
1993
Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) [Expanded Edition]
10Straight Outta Compton
N.W.A.
1988
11Dream On
Aerosmith
1973
Aerosmith
12Bootylicious
Destiny's Child
2001
Survivor
13I Don't Wanna Know
Mario Winans
2004
14Edge of Seventeen
Stevie Nicks
1981
Bella Donna (2016 Remastered)
15Thank You
Tiësto,Dido,Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike,W&W,Dimitri Vegas,Like Mike
2023
16Touch The Sky
Kanye West
2005
17I'm Too Sexy
Right Said Fred
1991
- 18
Boadicea
Enya
1987
19Can I Kick It?
A Tribe Called Quest
1990
People's Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm (25th Anniversary Edition)
