Smokey Robinson is speaking out on how he feels about song sampling and artistes sampling his songs.
This musical legend has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry due to his decades of iconic musical journey.
Smokey Robinson began his career in the ’50s with The Miracles.
He went on to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and was awarded the 2016 Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for his lifetime contributions to the music world.
In a recent appearance on an episode of the R&B Money podcast, he shared how he wants his art sampled over and over again.
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His revelation came to light when the host, Tank, asked him how he felt the first time Smokey Robinson heard D’Angelo’s version of “Cruisin’.”
“D’Angelo’s my little brother. I love him,” the legendary songwriter responded. “What did I think when I heard it? I thought, ‘Yippee, ooh great.’
That’s the same thing I think of when I hear anybody doing any of my songs. As a songwriter, I hope that happens all the time.”
Smokey also made it clear he does not relate to artists who don’t like having their work sampled, and he recently called those people “fools.”
The singer went on to explain why he feels truly honored when artists sample his music.
“I know when the kids started to sample music, people would come to me, ‘Hey man, they sampled your music.’
No, sample all of mine. Sample every song I ever wrote in my life.
When you sample it, that says to me that out of all the billion songs that are on earth… you chose one of mine to incorporate into your music? Thank you.”
He also added that D’Angelo’s rendition left him “flabbergasted.”
Co-host J. Valentine delved further by mentioning there’s often a “line in the sand” when it comes to sampling, as some people may feel they do not want their music “touched.” To that, Smokey interjected to call those people “fools” and “stupid.”
The legendary artiste concluded his point by saying,
“First of all, it’s flattery. And you’re also going to earn some money, so why would you protest that?”
After his official stamp of approval, one can imagine how both young and old artists will be open to sampling Smokey Robinson’s iconic category in good faith.
Meanwhile, social media couldn’t be left out; below is what some X users think about Smokey Robinson’s submission.
Photo Credit Instagram: @apollotheater
