African Samples In Rihanna, Beyoncé, and Jay-Z Songs

Dive into the global sounds shaping the biggest mainstream songs of the past decades and see how you can invest in these artists's music catalogs.
November 5, 2024
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Rihanna has cemented her place as a transformative influence in the music industry, particularly through her innovative use of samples and interpolations. Her ability to blend elements from diverse musical cultures has set her apart as a global icon. A prime example of her ingenuity is the hit song "Don't Stop the Music," where the infusion of African musical elements plays a pivotal role, showcasing the rich cultural tapestry that shapes her artistry.

Unpacking the Iconic Sample in "Don't Stop the Music"

Rihanna's "Don't Stop the Music" is a masterclass in creatively leveraging existing musical motifs to create something fresh and vibrant. Central to this track is the sample from Michael Jackson's "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'," which itself borrows the iconic "Mama-say, mama-sa, ma-ma-ko-ssa" hook from Manu Dibango’s "Soul Makossa." This interpolation did not occur without legal complexities. Dibango pursued legal action against both Rihanna and Jackson, arguing that proper credit and permission were not secured. While the case against Rihanna was dismissed after Dibango accepted publishing credit, it highlights the intricate legal landscapes that artists navigate when employing such samples.

The Legacy of "Soul Makossa" in Global Music

"Soul Makossa," a pioneering track by Manu Dibango, has left an indelible mark on global music. Its infectious rhythm and distinctive motifs have made it a popular choice for sampling across various musical genres. Artists from different corners of the world have drawn inspiration from its vibrant energy, breathing new life into their compositions. Some notable examples include:

  • Jay-Z's "Face Off," where the jazzy horn and funky breakbeat enrich the track.
  • Beyoncé's "Déjà Vu (Homecoming Live)," incorporating the groovy horn sections.
  • Ye's "Lost in the World," which plays on Dibango’s hook, showcasing his enduring influence.

Rihanna's Cultural Impact and Musical Innovation

Rihanna’s work has significantly contributed to the mainstream acceptance and celebration of African musical elements within pop culture. By integrating these sounds into her music, she has not only honored her cultural heritage but also paved the way for future artists to explore and incorporate diverse sonic landscapes into their work. Her approach to music production—melding traditional African sounds with contemporary pop—has not only broadened the horizons of modern music but also inspired a new generation of musicians. Rihanna's influence shines as a beacon for cultural fusion and innovation, ensuring that African music continues to resonate on the global stage.

How You Can Make Money from Rihanna's Music

Rihanna fans can get started with music royalty investing, earning amazing passive income from her biggest hits on Royalty Exchange. On Royalty Exchange you can sign up as an investor and search through thousands of music catalog listings that include producer and songwriter royalties to some of the biggest songs of the past few decades. Discover why song royalties are one of the best investments to grow your wealth in 2024 and download the free Ultimate Guide To Music Royalties to learn everything you need to know about investing in royalties.

Take this catalog featuring songs by Rihanna for instance. The investor acquired this catalog for $61,600 and collected $5,490 in royalties over 6 months, achieving an impressive ROI of 53.30% after they sold it to another buyer on the platform for $96,700. Song royalties by legendary artists like Rihanna are a collector's item as well. Just as people collect sports cards, artifacts, and other items, owning a piece of music history is priceless. Especially when you consider her chart-topping generational hits that you can invest in that people will continue to listen to forever. Song royalty acquisitions can be extremely lucrative investments as you can see from this example. Discover why so many investors today are using Royalty Exchange to buy royalties to expand and diversify their portfolio. Get your hands on your favorite music catalog today!

This live listing featuring songs by Rihanna is now available for investment. This catalog has earned $5,467 over the past 12 months and is currently valued at $38,192. Sign up today and place your bid before another investor secures this exciting asset for their portfolio. You can take a look at hundreds of other music catalogs that are some of the best royalties to invest in as well. Invest in music today and reap the benefits of earning passive income from music rights whose value is independent of macroeconomic markets.

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