How Are Hip-Hop and Classical Music Related?

Hip-hop and classical music may seem like two different styles of music, but they have more connections than one might think. Both genres share a deep appreciation for musicality, and their artists use music to express themselves and convey powerful messages. 

Hip-Hop music, like classical music, is an art form that has evolved, with different styles of music emerging and blending to create something new. Hip-Hop artists often use samples and remixes of classical music in their rap songs, incorporating classical elements into their music. 

The use of classical music in Hip-Hop is not new. It has been a common practice since the early days of rap music. If it doesn’t feel like you should mix Jay-Z or Kendrick Lamar with Chopin or Bach, you need to check out the vast history of classical Hip-Hop mash-ups.

 Some rappers have even gone as far as to collaborate with symphony orchestras, creating a unique sound that combines the best of both worlds. As Hip-Hop continues to evolve, we will likely continue to see more connections between these two seemingly disparate styles of music.

8 Hip-Hop Songs That Sampled Classical Music

1. Nas – “I Can”

Sample: “Für Elise” by Beethoven

Beethoven’s Für Elise is one of his popular and recognizable compositions. It is a solo piano piece that was likely composed in 1810, although the exact date of its composition is unknown. The piece was not published during Beethoven's lifetime and was only discovered and published posthumously in 1867, over 40 years after the composer's death.

The composition is in the key of A minor and is written in rondo form, meaning it has a recurring main theme interspersed with contrasting sections. The piece is relatively short, with a total playing time of approximately three to four minutes. The main theme of "Für Elise" is a simple but catchy melody played with the right hand while the left hand provides a harmonic accompaniment.

Despite its popularity, there is much debate among scholars and musicians about the true identity of "Elise" and the intended context of the piece. Some believe that the title may be a misspelling of "Therese," a woman that Beethoven was known to have been fond of. Others suggest that "Elise" may have been a nickname for one of Beethoven's students or a family member. Whatever the true origin of the title may be, "Für Elise" remains a beloved piece of music that audiences and musicians worldwide enjoy.

2. Ludacris – “Coming 2 America”

Samples: Mozart’s “Requiem” and the stately last movement of Dvorak’s Symphony No 9

Mozart's "Requiem" is one of his most famous and enduring works and is widely regarded as one of the greatest choral compositions ever. It was commissioned by a mysterious stranger who identified himself only as "Count Walsegg" and requested that Mozart compose a requiem mass to commemorate the death of his wife.

Mozart began working on the piece in 1791 but could not complete it before his untimely death later that year. The work was then completed by Mozart's student and friend, Franz Xaver Süssmayr, according to Mozart's notes and instructions.

The "Requiem" is a solemn and powerful piece of music meant to be performed as a requiem mass, a type of Catholic mass that is said or sung for the repose of the souls of the dead. The work is scored for a large orchestra, chorus, and four soloists and features choral and solo sections. The music is highly emotional, with sweeping melodies and dramatic crescendos that evoke a sense of loss and mourning.

Although the "Requiem" was left unfinished by Mozart and completed by another composer, it remains one of his most beloved works and a testament to his genius. Its popularity has endured for over two centuries,

3. DJ Premier and Nas – "Regeneration"

Sample: Vivaldi’s "Summer," Mozart’s Linz Symphony, and Beethoven’s Egmont Overture

Summer" is one of the four concertos that make up Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons," a set of violin concertos depicting the changing seasons. "Summer" is the second concerto in the set and is known for its vivid musical portrayal of a summer thunderstorm.

The composition is scored for solo violin, strings, and continuo and features three movements. The first movement is marked "Allegro non molto." It is a fast and energetic depiction of the summer heat, with the solo violin representing the singing of birds and the buzzing of insects. The second movement is marked "Adagio e piano - Presto e forte" and represents the arrival of a summer thunderstorm, with the violin imitating the sound of thunder and lightning. The final movement is marked "Presto" and represents the aftermath of the storm, with the violin imitating the chirping of crickets and other insects.

4. Busta Rhymes – “Back on My B.S. Intro”

Sample: Beethoven Symphony No. 5

Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 is one of the world's most famous and widely recognized symphonies. It is a monumental work known for its dramatic opening four-note motif, which has become one of history's most iconic musical phrases.

The symphony is composed of four movements and was completed in 1808. It is scored for a large orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The first movement,  "Allegro con brio," begins with the famous four-note motif, which is repeated and developed throughout. The second movement, marked "Andante con moto," is a more lyrical and melodic section that contrasts the intensity of the first movement. The third movement, marked "Scherzo: Allegro," is lively and rhythmic, featuring a prominent horn section. The final movement, marked "Allegro," is a triumphant and energetic conclusion to the symphony.

5. Wu-Tang Clan – “Impossible”

Sample: Beethoven’s Sonata No. 8 Pathetique - 1st Movement

Ludwig van Beethoven's "Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13" is commonly known as the "Pathetique" Sonata. Its first movement is one of the piano repertoire's most famous and beloved works.

The "Pathetique" Sonata was composed in 1798 and is one of Beethoven's earliest published works. The first movement is marked "Grave - Allegro di molto e con brio," a dramatic and powerful expression of emotion. The opening "Grave" section is a slow and mournful introduction that sets the stage for the explosive and intense "Allegro di molto e con brio" that follows.

The first movement of the "Pathetique" Sonata is notable for its striking use of contrasts. The dramatic opening section gives way to a fast and frenzied main theme marked by sudden shifts in dynamics and tempo. The music is highly expressive, with sweeping melodies and dramatic chord progressions that evoke a sense of passion and intensity.

Despite its technical demands, the first movement of the "Pathetique" Sonata has become one of Beethoven's most popular and enduring works. It is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Western classical music. Its emotional power and technical virtuosity continue to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, and it remains a testament to Beethoven's genius and ability to convey complex emotions through music.

6. Capone-N-Noreaga – “Straight Like That”

Sample: Mozart’s Symphony No. 25

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Symphony No. 25 in G minor, K. 183, is a landmark work in the history of classical music. Composed in 1773, when Mozart was just 17 years old, it is one of his earliest symphonies and is notable for its dramatic and intense character.

The symphony comprises four movements and is scored for a relatively small orchestra of strings, woodwinds, and horns. The first movement, "Allegro con brio," begins with a brooding and ominous theme that sets the tone for the rest of the work. The second movement, marked "Andante," is a more gentle and lyrical section that contrasts the intensity of the first movement. The third movement, "Menuetto," is lively and rhythmic, with a prominent horn section. The final movement, marked "Allegro," is a fast and energetic conclusion to the symphony that features complex rhythms and intricate counterpoints.

Mozart's Symphony No. 25 is known for its technical and compositional innovations, particularly in its sonata form and integration of different musical styles and genres. The symphony's intense and dramatic character is also notable, particularly in the brooding opening theme of the first movement, which has been used in numerous films and other media.

7. EPMD featuring Keith Murray and Redman – “K.I.M.”

Sample: Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 (Third Movement)

The third movement of Symphony No. 40 is a minuet, a popular dance form of the time that is characterized by its triple meter and stately pace. Mozart's version of the minuet, however, is more lively and energetic than many of his contemporaries, with a fast tempo and intricate rhythms that give the music a sense of urgency and excitement.

The movement features two contrasting themes, with the first being a jaunty and playful melody repeated and developed throughout the section. The second theme is more subdued and lyrical, providing a brief respite from the energetic dance music surrounding it.

Despite its relative brevity, the third movement of Symphony No. 40 is a masterclass in Mozart's compositional style, showcasing his ability to craft memorable and intricate melodies that are both accessible and sophisticated.

8. Immortal Technique – “Dance with the Devil”

Sample: Bach’s Sonata for Viola and Harpsichord (First Movement)

Johann Sebastian Bach's Sonata for Viola and Harpsichord in G Major, BWV 1027, is a beautiful and virtuosic work for two instruments. The sonata comprises three movements; the first is marked "Adagio" and is a somber and expressive introduction to the work.

The sonata's first movement opens with a beautiful and lyrical melody played by the viola, accompanied by the gentle arpeggios of the harpsichord. The music is marked by its slow tempo and mournful character, with a sense of deep emotion and reflection.

As the movement progresses, Bach introduces several virtuosic passages for the viola, showcasing the instrument's expressive and technical capabilities. The harpsichord provides a subtle and supportive accompaniment, adding to the overall sense of melancholy and introspection.

All of it makes for a dope sample for this Immortal Technique track.