Top 10 Iconic Samples That Defined the 90s Hip-hop Scene

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The 1990s was a transformative decade for hip-hop, marked by innovative sounds and unforgettable samples. These samples helped shape the sound of the era and remain influential today. Here are the top 10 iconic samples that defined the 90s hip-hop scene.

1. “Funky Worm” by Ohio Players

This funky bassline was famously sampled by Dr. Dre in “The Chronic” and became a staple in West Coast hip-hop. Its infectious groove set the tone for many tracks in the 90s.

2. “Impeach the President” by The Honey Drippers

This drum break is one of the most sampled in hip-hop history. It provided the backbone for tracks like Nas’s “The World Is Yours” and many others, giving a gritty, soulful feel.

3. “Amen Brother” by The Winstons

The “Amen Break” from this song is legendary, used in countless tracks to add a rhythmic punch. It became a cornerstone of hip-hop, jungle, and drum & bass genres.

4. “Think (About It)” by Lyn Collins

Produced by James Brown, this sample’s iconic “Woo! Yeah!” was used by artists like The Notorious B.I.G. and others to energize their beats with raw funk energy.

5. “Synthetic Substitution” by Melvin Bliss

The drum break from this track was widely sampled, notably in Eric B. & Rakim’s “Eric B. Is President.” Its crisp beats defined many classic tracks.

6. “Apache” by The Incredible Bongo Band

This track’s drum break became a favorite for breakdancers and producers alike, featured in songs like “Apache” by the Sugarhill Gang and other hip-hop classics.

7. “When the Levee Breaks” by Led Zeppelin

With its heavy drum sound, this song was sampled in many 90s hip-hop tracks, adding a dark, powerful atmosphere to songs like “Runnin'” by The Pharcyde.

8. “La Di Da Di” by Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick

This song itself is a classic, but its vocal snippets and beats have been sampled extensively, influencing countless artists and tracks in the 90s.

9. “Think (About It)” by Lyn Collins

Another entry for this funk classic, its energetic vocal snippets and drum breaks made it a go-to sample for many producers in the 90s.

10. “Soul Makossa” by Manu Dibango

This African jazz-funk track was sampled in Notorious B.I.G.’s “Hypnotize,” bringing a global flavor to 90s hip-hop and showcasing its diverse influences.