With a voice velvety smooth, and some thought-inspiring lyrics, rare today is an artist like Donny Hathaway. Today, we celebrate his life on this, the anniversary of his death. To commemorate Mr. Hathaway’s life, we thought we would highlight some of his top hits that have been used for samples. With a catalog as rich as his, it’s unsurprising to see just how much of hip-hop has been influenced by Mr. Hathaway.
Enjoy these selections.
In Memoriam: Donny Hathaway 10/1/1945-01/13/1979.
Someday We’ll All Be Free
Sampled by: “We Will All Be Free” Saudabe and Dela, “Someday” Talib Kweli
httpa://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cv1B0ejhFVE#t=77
Little Ghetto Boy
Sampled by: “Little Ghetto Boy” Dr. Dre, “Little Ghetto Boys” Wu-Tang Clan, “Young G’s” Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs
httpa://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YLUh70zp0LE
A Song for You
Sampled by: “Baby” Brandy, “Black Lip Bastard” Ab-Soul
httpa://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeHiio1sTTI