The Samples Introduction
In this verse, Jay Z attests to his lyrical abilities explaining that he does not rip off other people’s materials, but instead, lifts them up by referencing their work. Jay Z’s intimate knowledge of music allows him to effortlessly move between genres and incorporate lines from songs ranging from the 1970s to present day.
For black artists, certain kinds of allusions or simply signifying constitutes a crucial element of black artistic expression. And, as a rapper, Jay Z is fond of signifying on words and phrasings from a wide range of source materials.
On the one hand, Jay Z’s music corresponds to and departs from discussions of figures who have worked through the challenges and opportunities negotiating life as black men in America. On the other hand, Jay Z incorporates hundreds of lyrical and instrumental samples into his body of work. Jay Z has worked with producers who have an in-depth knowledge of black music history as they incorporate sound effects, drum patterns, chords, and other lush samples from the 1960s – 1990s.
Ultimately, Jay Z’s music underscores the value of sampling, connecting, and signifying as a means for transmitting artistic and social ideas.
