Updated September 2026: When I put this list together back in February 2007, I figured a few of you would argue with me. Nineteen years and 80-plus comments later, you’re still arguing with me. So I went back through the whole list, fixed a few of my own typos (sorry Little Feat), and added what I should have included the first time: the label and year for every break, how many records have sampled it, and the joints where you’ve already heard those drums whether you knew it or not. Same 30 breaks, same order, and my original intro is still right there.
What Exactly Is a Drum Break?
For anybody new to the crates, a break is that part of a record where everything drops out except the drums, or the drums and a little bass if you’re lucky. Sometimes it’s two bars, sometimes it’s the first five seconds of the song, and sometimes you have to sit through six minutes of some strange nonsense to find it. DJs figured out early on that if you had two copies of the same record, you could run that break back and forth and keep the beat going forever. Then the digital samplers arrived, and those same few seconds of kick and snare became the foundation for pretty much every classic record you know.
What makes a break great? It’s not just about being clean. The best ones have a feel you can’t program. The way the drummer drags the snare a bit behind the beat, the room sound, the hiss. That’s why producers still pay ridiculous money for original pressings of records that only have eight bars worth sampling.
The List (Originally Posted February 2007)
I absolutely love lists. I make lists for things that I need to do when at home, on my way to work, at work, and even while I’m at the movies. There’s one list that I’ve been thinking of for the past three weeks and has caused me agony beyond reasonable comprehension… The top 10 drum breaks of all time! Can you imagine that such a thing might exist? After all we are talking about, at the most, a ten second snippet of a couple of kicks, snare, and maybe even some high hats.
This is madness, right? Well, for over a fortnight I’ve tossed, turned, gritted my teeth, and had more arguments with myself than the American Psychological Association has deemed mentally healthy, but I’ve finally finished my list. The closest I was able to get it down to was the greatest 30 breaks with only the top 3 being in any particular order. So, here it is, for your listening and debating pleasure… The Top 30 Greatest Hip-Hop Drum Breaks of All Time!!!
Sample counts are from WhoSampled as of September 2026. The “where you’ve heard it” picks are records that took the drums specifically, not the horns or the vocals.
1. Melvin Bliss – Synthetic Substitution
Sunburst, 1973 · B-side of “Reward” · produced by Herb Rooney · sampled in 1,000+ records
A B-side on a tiny label that ended up outliving just about every song of 1973. Those opening drums are the reason this sits at number one. Over a thousand records later it still sounds brand new.
Where you’ve heard it: Wu-Tang Clan “Bring Da Ruckus” (1993), Naughty by Nature “O.P.P.” (1991), Public Enemy “Don’t Believe the Hype” (1988), Pusha T & Kanye West “New God Flow” (2012).
2. The Honey Drippers – Impeach the President
Alaga, 1973 · produced by Roy C. Hammond · sampled in 800+ records
If you only ever own one break, make it this one. That snare is practically part of the hip-hop alphabet at this point. Biggie, Nas, 2Pac, J. Cole... everybody has taken a turn on it, and it never gets old.
Where you’ve heard it: Audio Two “Top Billin’” (1987), The Notorious B.I.G. “Unbelievable” (1994), Nas “The Message” (1996) and “I Can” (2002), J. Cole “Wet Dreamz” (2014).
3. Skull Snaps – It’s a New Day
GSF, 1973 · from the album Skull Snaps · produced by George Kerr · sampled in 600+ records
One album, one legendary break, and a whole lot of diggers who’d sell a kidney for an original copy. When The Pharcyde and Mobb Deep are both pulling from the same record, you know it’s serious.
Where you’ve heard it: The Pharcyde “Passin’ Me By” (1992), Big L “Put It On” (1994), Mobb Deep “Give Up the Goods (Just Step)” (1995), The Prodigy “Poison” (1994).
4. Little Feat – Fool Yourself
Warner Bros., 1973 · from Dixie Chicken · produced by Lowell George · sampled in 140+ records
Proof that you should never skip the rock bins. A Southern rock band out of L.A. laid down one of the smoothest breaks on this whole list, and Q-Tip was right there to catch it.
Where you’ve heard it: A Tribe Called Quest “Bonita Applebum” (1990), Apache “Gangsta Bitch” (1992), Mobb Deep “G.O.D. Pt. III” (1996), Quasimoto “Come on Feet” (2000).
5. Billy Squier – The Big Beat
Capitol, 1980 · from The Tale of the Tape · produced by Billy Squier and Eddy Offord · sampled in 360+ records
Everybody knows it from Rick Rubin on “99 Problems,” but Run-DMC were rocking these drums live back in 1985. Big, loud, arena rock drums that somehow sound even harder when you put a rapper on top of them.
Where you’ve heard it: Run-DMC “Here We Go (Live at the Funhouse)” (1985), Jay-Z “99 Problems” (2003), The Prodigy “Spitfire” (2004), A$AP Rocky “Out of This World” (2011).
6. Al Green – I’m Glad You’re Mine
Hi, 1972 · from I’m Still in Love With You · produced by Willie Mitchell and Al Green · sampled in 230+ records
The Hi Records rhythm section in Memphis was on another level, and this is the proof. Biggie went back to this one at least three times, which tells you everything you need to know.
Where you’ve heard it: The Notorious B.I.G. “What’s Beef” (1997), “I Got a Story to Tell” (1997) and “Dead Wrong” (1999), Massive Attack “Five Man Army” (1991).
7. The Soul Searchers – Ashley’s Roachclip
Sussex, 1974 · from Salt of the Earth · produced by Carroll Hynson and Joe Tate · sampled in 630+ records
Before Chuck Brown was the Godfather of Go-Go, he was leading The Soul Searchers, and they gave us this. Eric B. & Rakim flipped it on “Paid in Full,” and the drums have been everywhere since, from P.M. Dawn to, yes, Milli Vanilli.
Where you’ve heard it: Milli Vanilli “Girl You Know It’s True” (1988), EMF “Unbelievable” (1990), P.M. Dawn “Set Adrift on Memory Bliss” (1991), Burial “Rival Dealer” (2013).
8. Power of Zeus – The Sorcerer of Isis
Rare Earth, 1970 · from The Gospel According to Zeus · produced by Russ and Ralph Terrana · sampled in 130+ records
A heavy rock record on Motown’s rock imprint, and a perfect example of why you check every section of the store. No-nonsense drums that fit just about any tempo you throw at them.
Where you’ve heard it: Common “Resurrection” (1994), Eminem “Amityville” (2000), Nujabes “Feather” (2005), Jay-Z & Kanye West “Murder to Excellence” (2011).
9. Kool & the Gang – N.T.
De-Lite, 1971 · from Live at PJ’s · produced by Gene Redd Jr. · sampled in 400+ records
Two words: “N.Y. State of Mind.” Early Kool & the Gang, recorded live, before the pop hits, when they were still one of the funkiest bands on the planet.
Where you’ve heard it: N.W.A “Gangsta Gangsta” (1988), MC Eiht “Streiht Up Menace (Remix)” (1993), Nas “N.Y. State of Mind” (1994), Q-Tip “Breathe and Stop” (1999).
10. The Isley Brothers – Footsteps in the Dark
T-Neck, 1977 · from Go for Your Guns · produced by The Isley Brothers · sampled in 110+ records
Ice Cube built “It Was a Good Day” on this record, and it’s been a producer favorite ever since. Laid back, heavy on the pocket, and absolutely timeless.
Where you’ve heard it: Björk “Play Dead” (1993), Thundercat “Them Changes” (2015).
11. Q65 – Get Out of My Life Woman
Decca, 1966 · from Revolution · produced by Hans van Hemert and Jan Audier · sampled in 16 records
A Dutch garage band covering Allen Toussaint. This is the deepest cut on the list, and only a handful of people have touched it. Consider this one my gift to the real diggers.
Where you’ve heard it: Jeru the Damaja “Revenge of the Prophet (Part 5)” (1996), J-Live “Braggin’ Writes (Dome Cracker Remix)” (1996), Bonobo “Silver” (2000), Czarface “Czar Refaeli” (2013).
12. Jeff Beck – Come Dancing
Epic, 1976 · from Wired · produced by George Martin · sampled in 55 records
Yes, that George Martin. A jazz-rock guitar record produced by the Beatles’ producer turned into a Gang Starr joint. That’s the beauty of digging right there.
Where you’ve heard it: De La Soul “Yunonstop” (1996), Gang Starr “The Rep Grows Bigga” (1998), INI “Center of Attention” (2003).
13. Mountain – Long Red (Live)
Island, 1972 · from Mountain Live: The Road Goes Ever On · produced by Felix Pappalardi · sampled in 950+ records
Close to a thousand samples, and it came off a live rock album. Kanye has gone back to this record again and again, from “Barry Bonds” to The Game’s “Wouldn’t Get Far.”
Where you’ve heard it: Jay-Z “99 Problems” (2003).
14. Manzel – Midnight Theme
Fraternity, 1979 · produced by Manzel and Shad O’Shea · sampled in 140+ records
An obscure 45 out of Cincinnati that ended up all over early-’90s hip-hop. Cypress Hill, The Pharcyde and Teddy Riley all pulled from it, which is one hell of a range.
Where you’ve heard it: Cypress Hill “How I Could Just Kill a Man” (1991), The Pharcyde “Passin’ Me By” (1992), Wreckx-N-Effect “Rump Shaker” (1992), J. Cole “Fire Squad” (2014).
15. The Meters – Here Comes the Meter Man
Josie, 1969 · from The Meters · produced by Allen Toussaint and Marshall Sehorn · sampled in 70 records
Zigaboo Modeliste is one of the funkiest drummers to ever sit behind a kit, period. New Orleans funk at its absolute finest. If you don’t own at least one Meters record, go fix that today.
Where you’ve heard it: Digable Planets “Black Ego” (1994), Nottz feat. Black Milk “Blast That” (2010), Flying Lotus “Aqua Teen 24” (2013).
16. The Headhunters – God Make Me Funky
Arista, 1975 · from Survival of the Fittest · produced by Herbie Hancock and David Rubinson · sampled in 420+ records
Herbie Hancock’s band without Herbie, and funky as all get out. This one has shown up everywhere from N.W.A to Santana, which might be the widest spread on the entire list.
Where you’ve heard it: N.W.A “Gangsta Gangsta” (1988), DMX “How’s It Goin’ Down” (1998), Santana “Maria Maria” (1999), Nas “Hip Hop Is Dead” (2006).
17. Dexter Wansel – Theme From the Planets
Philadelphia International, 1976 · from Life on Mars · produced by Dexter Wansel · sampled in 360+ records
Philly soul goes to outer space. Eric B. & Rakim grabbed it for “I Ain’t No Joke,” and J. Cole has gone back to it more than once.
Where you’ve heard it: Eric B. & Rakim “I Ain’t No Joke” (1987), J. Cole “Lights Please” (2009) and “Everybody Dies” (2016), Benny the Butcher & J. Cole “Johnny P’s Caddy” (2022).
18. Young-Holt Unlimited – Wah Wah Man
Cotillion, 1971 · from Born Again · sampled in 150+ records
Eldee Young and Isaac “Red” Holt came out of the Ramsey Lewis Trio, so you know the rhythm section is going to be tight. Lord Finesse caught this one early, and Kendrick picked it back up almost thirty years later.
Where you’ve heard it: Lord Finesse & DJ Mike Smooth “Baby, You Nasty” (1989), MC Solaar “Obsolète” (1994), Eminem “Brainless” (2013), Kendrick Lamar “XXX.” (2017).
19. Roy Ayers Ubiquity – The Boogie Back
Polydor, 1974 · from Change Up the Groove · sampled in 59 records
Roy Ayers is a crate digger’s best friend, and this is one of his hardest-hitting tunes. De La Soul knew exactly what to do with it.
Where you’ve heard it: De La Soul “Potholes in My Lawn” (1989), Coolio “County Line” (1994), 2Pac “When I Get Free II” (1997).
20. James Brown – Funky President (People It’s Bad)
Polydor, 1974 · from Reality · produced by James Brown · sampled in 1,100+ records
The most sampled record on this whole list, and it’s not even close. Of course it’s the Godfather. You could fill an entire list with James Brown breaks, and trust me, I thought about it.
Where you’ve heard it: DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince “Summertime” (1991), Nightcrawlers “Push the Feeling On” (1992).
21. Orange Krush – Action
Mercury, 1982 · produced by Russell Simmons and Larry Smith · sampled in 100 records
Yes, that Russell Simmons, before Def Jam. Larry Smith went on to produce the early Run-DMC records, and you can hear that sound starting to take shape right here.
Where you’ve heard it: Nas “Take It in Blood” (1996), Puff Daddy feat. Jay-Z “Do You Want It... Do You Like It...” (1999), Kanye West feat. Nas “We Major” (2005).
22. Joe Tex – Papa Was Too
Atlantic, 1966 · from I’ve Got to Do a Little Bit Better · produced by Buddy Killen · sampled in 360+ records
Tied with the Q65 for the oldest record on the list, and it still knocks. RZA used it on “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing Ta F’ Wit,” which should be all the endorsement anyone needs.
Where you’ve heard it: Menace 2 Society “Ghetto Celebrity” (1991), Wu-Tang Clan “Wu-Tang Clan Ain’t Nuthing Ta F’ Wit” (1993), Rappin’ 4-Tay “Playaz Club” (1994), Das EFX “Real Hip Hop” (1995).
23. Funk, Inc. – Kool Is Back
Prestige, 1971 · from Funk, Inc. · produced by Bob Porter · sampled in 660+ records
Remember when everybody was trying to figure out the water drops on Jeru’s “Come Clean”? These are the drums Primo put underneath them. Soul jazz on Prestige, and a staple ever since.
Where you’ve heard it: Compton’s Most Wanted “Growin’ Up in the Hood” (1991), Jeru the Damaja “Come Clean” (1993), Jay-Z “The Story of O.J.” (2017).
24. The Silhouettes – Fonky First
Seque, 1969 · from Conversations With the Silhouettes · produced by Nathan Davis · sampled in 26 records
Another one for the real heads. Only a couple dozen records have touched it, but look who’s on that list: Pete Rock and J Dilla. Enough said.
Where you’ve heard it: Pete Rock “#1 Soul Brother” (1998), 50 Cent “This Is 50” (2005), J Dilla “367” (2016).
25. Bad Bascomb – Black Grass
Paramount, 1972 · from Black Grass Music · sampled in 54 records
A funk record that took decades to get its due. Tyler, the Creator and Kid Cudi have both gone digging for it recently, so the secret is definitely out now.
Where you’ve heard it: The Beta Band “Dry the Rain” (1997), Tyler, the Creator “WHAT’S GOOD” (2019), Kid Cudi “Leader of the Delinquents” (2020).
26. Kool & the Gang – Jungle Jazz
De-Lite, 1975 · from Spirit of the Boogie · produced by Kool & the Gang · sampled in 90+ records
Kool & the Gang get two spots on the list, and they earned both of them. Brand Nubian put it to work early on, and Jay-Z brought it back decades later.
Where you’ve heard it: Brand Nubian “Drop the Bomb” (1990), Jade “Don’t Walk Away” (1992), Jay-Z feat. John Legend “Do U Wanna Ride” (2006).
27. The Turtles – I’m Chief Kamanawanalea (We’re the Royal Macadamia Nuts)
White Whale, 1968 · from The Turtles Present the Battle of the Bands · produced by Chip Douglas · sampled in 100+ records
Easily the strangest title on the list. A ’60s pop band doing a mock-Hawaiian number, and somehow the drums are ridiculous. De La Soul, Stetsasonic and Biz Markie all knew it.
Where you’ve heard it: Stetsasonic “Talkin’ All That Jazz” (1988), De La Soul “Say No Go” (1989), Biz Markie “Spring Again” (1989), The Internet “Palace/Curse” (2015).
28. Donny Hathaway – Magnificent Sanctuary Band
Atlantic, 1971 · from Donny Hathaway · produced by Jerry Wexler, Arif Mardin and Donny Hathaway · sampled in 46 records
Donny Hathaway could do no wrong, and this one swings like crazy. Diamond D, the Beastie Boys, Portishead and Beck all got a piece, which is about as diverse as it gets.
Where you’ve heard it: Beastie Boys “Johnny Ryall” (1989), Diamond D “F**k What U Heard” (1992), Portishead “Strangers” (1994), Beck “Where It’s At” (1996).
29. Little Richard – The Rill Thing
Reprise, 1970 · from The Rill Thing · produced by Little Richard · sampled in 130+ records
Little Richard’s funk period, and it’s a monster. Pete Rock & CL Smooth and Lord Finesse both went to this well in ’92, which puts it right in the middle of the golden era.
Where you’ve heard it: Pete Rock & CL Smooth “For Pete’s Sake” (1992), Lord Finesse “Yes You May (Funk Flow Mix)” (1992), The Prodigy “Breathe” (1996), Sean Price “Bully Rap” (2012).
30. Funkadelic – Good Old Music
Westbound, 1970 · from Funkadelic · produced by George Clinton · sampled in 360+ records
The very first Funkadelic album. These drums have traveled further than just about anything on the list, from Massive Attack all the way to Nine Inch Nails and t.A.T.u. (no, really).
Where you’ve heard it: Nine Inch Nails “Kinda I Want To” (1989), Massive Attack “Safe From Harm” (1991), t.A.T.u. “All the Things She Said” (2002).
Keep Digging
Thirty breaks barely scratches the surface. If you want to go deeper, here’s where to head next:
- 300 Classic Hip Hop Drum Breaks, Samples, and Loops: the full catalog, continued in Part 2 and Part 3
- 10 Vinyl Record Digging Secrets: how to find breaks like these on your own
- Mobb Deep: The Infamous Samples & Breaks Case Study: what a producer actually does with them
- The Top 9 Most Influential Digital Samplers in Hip-Hop History: the machines that chopped them
Did I get it wrong? Probably. The 80-plus comments below are proof that nobody will ever agree on this list, and honestly, that’s half the fun.
83 comments
Archived · closedHotMouth ·
Dude.
This is f*cking hot.
My only hate is that the streams are only 12 seconds long.
I WANT 30 second clips.
A pod cast.
Something.
I HEART BREAK BEAT LISTS.
Gary VanLiew ·
Good choices. A few that should have been on here
William Bell- Born Under a Bad Sign
Jimi Hendrix- Flashing
Rolling Stones- Honky tonk Woman
EdwinStarr- Rapper Dapper clapper
Shaun ·
nice nie.......but i was wondering why the amen brother break isnt in there?....it is one of the most famous breaks as what i know of.......its being used is striaght out of compton nwa......plus the snares and kicks have been use in alot of dnb songs
1992 ·
This list is completely FUBAR! You left out the #1 break of all time. Not only did you not make it #1 but its out of the list completely!!!! This is surly a crime! Punishable by being forced to stay awake in a chair while listening to said break for a week, no less.
Winstons, The "Amen Brother" (Metromedia MMS-117)
http://www.discogs.com/release/423956
This one record is so influential, it started a seperate dance music genre called Jungle or as it is called today, Drum & Bass. It was best used as the back beat of UK 'Ardkore tracks pre-jungle such as in DJ Seduction's "Come On", Harmony & Extreme's "Music", and Carl Cox's "I want you (forever)"
caddis ·
Hey there. The Skull Snaps are playing at the Knitting Facotry this Friday opening for Slick Rick. Also, would you be interested in interviewing Skull Snaps leader, Erv Waters, for your blog?
Caddis
block ·
THE WINSTONS: AMER BROTHER!
EyeGetzRaw ·
Aside from the aforementioned Winston Brothers....another glaring omission is James Brown's Funky Drummer, which admittedly, is one of the most overused samples in Hip Hop history...but not without reason.
DJ FRAGGLE ·
I could not agreee more, when i started as a dj funky drummer was the key to life itself. If in doubt get the funky drummer vinyl out, got me out of a lot of messy mixes
EyeGetzRaw ·
^^^*Winton's Amen Brother*
felix ·
If i bought one of your sample packs, would it still work on my Mac running reason even though the download says windows only?
Scheme ·
props on posting the skull snaps. just saw them (like, JUST saw them) at the knitting factory tonight before slick rick. they killed.
thanks for the sample wednesday mention as well. keep doing your thing. peace!
Scheme
Palms Out
the average man ·
"This list is completely FUBAR! You left out the #1 break of all time. Not only did you not make it #1 but its out of the list completely!!!! This is surly a crime! Punishable by being forced to stay awake in a chair while listening to said break for a week, no less."
thought you were going to say Funky Drummer!
Long Red is str8 Pi$$ though
mike18xx ·
(Chuckle.)
http://rushmidi.com/wavs/kellys-heroes-burning-bridges.wav
mike18xx ·
More Eastwood beats:
http://rushmidi.com/wavs/dirtyharry-opening-scorpio.wav
http://rushmidi.com/wavs/dirtyharry-creed.wav
Mark Kelly ·
Good list but what about George McCrae I Get Lifted or Vernon Burch Get Up?
Mok ·
I'm sorry but there's no arguing this. 2000 rappers and dj's can't be wrong.
James Brown's "Funky Drummer" is the IT!!!
After that, take your pick. How could you not have it in your top 30???
Trying too hard to be avant garde? Fess up!
MrCriplR ·
I totally agree with your #1 spot, however Funky Drummer and Amen should be on the list. Although Amen is a bit over-rated, it's a classic but it's over-rated.
jaz ·
kick ass list man. i'm w/ hotmouth: i wish the clips were longer.
Sarah ·
Anyone know where I can find drum transcription for these???
stepper ·
ive been working on transcribing these for a minute. but its for a drum machine or mpc sequencer 001.01.00(language) . Im assuming your looking for transcription for a live drummer. Ive seen drum transcription books which is more like written music for drums. I would definetly be interested in help working on this i need to figure out how to write it in transcription language. You can do it yourself, time consuming though. i have a some methods kinda hard for me to explain unless you know how to use step record on a drummachine/sampler. hit me up with any further info or i could try to show you the ones i have.
T-GHETTO ENTERTAINMENT ·
Man, A Different World has sampled most of them beats. He's made some himself with the wooden drums.
Patrick Gillin ·
hey guys,
i just wanted the name for the drum break that Kanye uses in "heard em say"
u know, the one with the echo effect on it. cheers
Mike Perdomo ·
you forgot 45 king- 900 number. that shizz is funkiiiiiiiieeeeeeeeeee
m.dot ·
FIRST OF ALL THIS NEEDS TO BE A FUCKING MIX.
THIS POST IS LIKE A GOOD DATE THAT ENDED EARLY,
WHO I NEVER SAW AGAIN AFTER THAT ONE HOT JULY NIGHT.
YES ALL CAPS!
~m.
Josh ·
"Apache" by Michael Viner's Incredible Bongo Band?
televisionromeo ·
great break
DJ Definite ·
What no Average White Band?!
Chris ·
this shit is def the ultimate collections HOT SHIT!
chris (DJ Clear)jones ·
The # 1 song i think yall forgot about is ............The Funky Drummer,now tell me how many song you heard that on.And the real Greatest of all time is Planet Rock,Shakin that ass is a way of dance ,Stippers Stand Up !
TDizzle ·
What about the Amen break?
Karriem Allah ·
I feel that some of these individuals don't have these breaks that are posted, so
get out there and dig and it's an education like none other.
PISSED UP RAVER ·
WHAT THE FUCK ABOUT BOBBY BYRD'S HOT PANTS (I'M COMING) BREAK THEN ??? THATS ABOUT AS IMPORTANT AS THE WINSTON'S AMEN BROTHER! YOU YANKS ARE UNEDUCATED IN BRITISH MUSIC, YOU IGNORE EVERYTHING WE DO (AND WE DO D'N'B BETTER THAN YOU DO!). LATER!
Sticke10 ·
hahaha... wahhhh
Sticke10 ·
USA bitch
magda ·
As has been mentioned numerous times, Amen Brother being excluded from the list is a unforgiveable error. So is ditching The Funky Drummer. Although I'm not surprised from an author who starts off his article with "I love lists." Lists are reductionist and detrimental. Instead of discussing the breaks and contextualizing their importance within hip-hop and the artists that have used them, what you've done imo is obscured their importance and relevance. Moreover, lists inherently always leave shit out but they never seem to acknowledge that. Music isn't about rows and columns, that's for the industry people to fight over, not us music lovers.
Music ·
I like this...cool
cam ·
how do you download this amazing shit
chad ·
what no amen break!
Kevin Wilson ·
Who knew making lists could be so cool?
Steve ·
I know people have said it before, but it can't said too many times: Where is the "Amen Break?" It is the most important break beat of all time - not just in hip-hop, but in all of popular culture.
Oh, and people who write in all caps are morons.
emstro ·
What about "When The Levee Breaks" by Led Zeppelin, which has been looped or sampled by everyone from The Beastie Boys to Massive Attack via Tears For Fears of all people. No-one ever hit a snare as sweet as John Bonham did on "Levee", which was recorded at the bottom of a stairwell at Headley Grange, a Victorian country house.
Zac ·
the aforementioned "Funky Drummer", "Apache", and "Amen" are obvious omissions.
The AWB shoutout, I agree with, if you're talking about "School Boy Crush".
The other glaring omissions, to me, are the Lyn Collins (JBs) "Think (About It)", and Sly and the Family Stone's "You Can Make It if You Try" and "Sing a Simple Song".
But Good Jebus, this list could (and should) go on forever.
I hadn't even brought up Bob James' "Take me to the Mardi Gras" or "Nautilus". And a personal favorite is Black Oak Arkansas "Hot and Nasty", but I don't know that that should be in a tops list. But I should stop.
Rob Roy ·
No Amen? Please.
Still I gave you a stumble. Can we get little flash mp3 players with a volume knob next time?
Matt ·
Awesome! Thanks for sharing, some pretty cool intros there and very inspirational!
Tbone ·
This is lacking one amazing drum intro. Trucker's Atlas by Modest Mouse. Everyone should go hear it.
joe ·
@Gary VanLiew, jimi hendrix isnt hip hop
Son of S.O.U.L. ·
Peace!!! I think you're kinda missing the point Joe. What makes these joints Hip Hop is the feeling/attitude they convey, as well as the way they're manipulated (like Theodore's needle dropping). You look at a joint like Orange Krush- 'Action' and you hear it on a real sound system NOT an iPod with ear buds, you'd feel them the way they're meant to be heard. The attitude in that cut gets me hype every time I go back and forth on it. Herc, Bam, and Flash (along with countless others) were cuttin' these while MC's like Busy Bee, Cold Crush 4, and Funky 4+1,etc were rhyming over top, and laying the foundation of this Hip Hop thing. When you listen to the old park jam tapes you hear Jazzy Jay cuttin' up Mary Mary, Assembly Line, or the Mickey Mouse break....you lose your mind (I do anyway,lol!!). When you see how B-Boys get loose on these jams....that is the physical manifestation of Hip Hop right there.
(But I digress).....The Turtles break is a psych rock record....The Donny Hathaway break is a soul record....Mountain (Live) is a rock record....Bobby Byrd's 'I'm Coming' is just pure Funk in your ass (respect to Pissed Up Raver for calling out this one). Thin Lizzy's Johnny The Fox (THAT..IS..MY...JOINT!!!) is a rock record. However if you listen if listen to those drums at the beginning....that's straight up funk backbone. If you really wanna be literal Joe, then no.....they're not. But it's very important that you look at these in context. That's my 5 cents....Peace 2U!!!
Mike ·
Friggin sweet list man! Nice work, couldn't have done better myself, however...
say what you want about limp bizkit but their track Let me down has the sweetest drum intro I've ever heard. 11 seconds of John otto magic.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzSrZOsOTRE
also couldnt help notice a serious lack of stevie wonder, the man can write a beat.
Haterama ·
Funky Drummer! c'mon son! We will always have our own favourites, but Funky Drummer... that's break beat 101 - even if the break last more than 10 seconds :P Anyways, I enjoyed the listen :)
Noneya ·
Sunday, Bloody Sunday by U2 should be on this list
Mr.Sean ·
Frank Zappa - Apostrophe.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyIOsuTNDDY
Robyn ·
What is the drum solo does Ozzy does in one of his songs, i belive it lasts for a few seconds.
Son of S.O.U.L. ·
PEACE!!! You wanna talk about missing breaks on this list.....
Incredible Bongo Band- Apache (I can't believe no one mentioned this anthem)
Thin Lizzy- Johnny The Fox Meets Jimmy The Weed
Lafayette Afro Rock Band- Hihache
Fatback Band- Fatbackin'
D.C LaRue: Face of Love (12" version)
These are just a few of my faves. Most peoples are stressin' Amen Brother???? Pfffff...if I don't hear that for a while, it's no loss. I don't even play my copies (for now,lol!!).
Coby ·
Looks who's too cool for the Amen Break. In shear influence and prolific application, Amen Brother HAS to be on the list of greatest hip hop breaks. Sorry. No two ways about it.
Yung B ·
WHERE CAN I GET THIS
paradiddle dave ·
Here are some more recent ones. They have evolved from which we have already heard. Masters of their craft...
Sunlight Square - from the cosmos (Steve Gadd)
Herbie Hancock - Palm Grease (Mike Clark)
Herbie Hancock - The Traitor (Mike Clark)
Lettuce - Dizzer (Adam Deitch)
Christian McBride - Say Somthing (Terreon Gully)
Greyboy Allstars - The Browns at Home (Zak Najor)
Los Lobos - Revolution (Louie Perez)
all good stuff,
RLRRLRLL
Be ·
Seriously? No "Amen Brother" by The Winstons? aka The Amen Break?
Be ·
Well, I see pretty much everyone has said that.
Brad ·
can people please read the page before posting....no more posts asking for the AMEN break or FUNKY DRUMMER.... we get it! lol
Semantik ·
"Amen" to that!
Aldo Thee Apache ·
Ooh glad to see Skull Snaps and Q65's Get of My Life Woman on this list.
Speaking of the latter this guy has got 107 Get Out My Life Woman breaks!!!!
http://www.versionsgalore.com/2010/10/28/get-out-more-often/
The GW DVH ·
If people keep asking for Amen and Funky Drummer without reading all the comments, it's because their exclusion is absolutely inexplicable. It's not even a matter of taste or personal preference...they are both Top-10.
Other than that headscratcher, this is a great list for those looking for a starting point to digging for drum breaks. Kudos.
BROTHER BLACK !!!! ·
Scratchin Disco Magic Machine, I Cant Stop - JOHN DAVIS & THE MONSTER ORCHESTRA, CATH A GROOVE - JUICE, APACHE- INCREDIBLE BONGO ROCK BAND. NYC FAVORITES ORCHESTRA
BROTHER BLACK !!!! ·
BROTHER BLACK !!!! November 29, 2010 at 8:41 am
Scratchin Disco Magic Machine, I Cant Stop – JOHN DAVIS & THE MONSTER ORCHESTRA, CATH A GROOVE – JUICE, APACHE- INCREDIBLE BONGO ROCK BAND. NYC FAVORITES
Chili Banks ·
Wow no Amen or Funky Drummer. Nice list though.
Hataide ·
little feat's (fool yourself), Al Green's Im glad your mine? Those are such weak breaks compared to an Amen Brother, September 13th, or when the levee breaks. Melvin Bliss at number one? Sad.
bklyn2cali ·
oh man... the most notorious sample (not on the list):
Bob James' "Take Me to The Mardis Gras"
good list... ;)
Trix ·
Um, why are these called "hip hop" breaks? Because most of them weren't invented by hip hop artists, even if they got used by them. "Breaks" would do just fine.
And yeah, no Amen Break is just bizarre.
ya boy ·
sooo.. How can I download these ?
Db2 ·
Download link would be nice..
djtopcat ·
Lee Dorsey's Get out of my life woman is way more popular and sampled than Q65's version are you Dutch or something lol??
I would add
Black Sabbath-Wasp
Cerrone-Rocket in the pocket live
Graham Central Station-The Jam
Johnny Jenkins-I walk on gilded splinters
Bit-A-Sweet-If I needed someone
James Taylor's Flying Machine-knockin' round the zoo
djtopcat ·
Oh and don't forget Aerosmith's-Walk this way drums very heavily sampled.
Should be in top 10.
Dick B. ·
No "Do the Funky Penguin" by Rufus Thomas or "Breakthrough" by Issac Hayes?
kool c ·
7 minutes of funk
DANCE 2 THE DRUMMERS BEAT
POT BELLY
T PLAYS IT COOL
NAUTILUS
BROTHER DISCO GREEN
ThatKidd04 ·
The The Honeydrippers Impeach The President is so overrated. But top ten non the less.
dysfact ·
hmm at first i was thinking this was your personal top 30 list. Because then a lot of this criticism would be invalid. There's nothing wrong with drafting a list, but allow me to continue it for you...
ADC band, Long Stroke
Stanley Clarke, Slow Dance
muddy waters, i just want to make love to you
cold blood, kissing my love
les mcCann, north carolina
Daniel Crespo ·
yo.....THE #1 all-time most sampled groove of all time, is the solo groove in "The Funky Drummer" by James Brown, that is the All-Time champ in sampled breaks, how could you not have that on this list???
Derrick Hayes ·
Speaking of breaks... where the hell is "Where the levee breaks" by Led Zeppelin?
Break ·
yo, please pop a DL link @ comments. much luv
scott cairo ·
This is great-Thank you. Shared with my breaks nutter friends, and Mashup groups.
James ·
Thanks for posting this, this is really interesting!
Sean ·
I would have added Tom Sawyer, Animate, and Mystic Rhythms from Rush.
DJ A.C.C.L.A.I.M` ·
And where's dance to the drummer's beat by Herman Kelley?