Although samples became widely popular with the advent of electronic music and hip hop more than 40 years ago, the technique of reusing certain sounds with a new purpose is now commonplace within all genres of music. In certain cases, older songs are sampled, chopped up, and used to create new beats and instrumentals for songs by modern artists. Occasionally, however, seemingly ordinary sound effects are given new life and an increased sense of meaning when they are seamlessly integrated into a song. Some musicians seek to make a specific statement with their choices of certain samples. Others just want to create an interesting sound that will stand out from the crowd of songs that only use live instruments or beat machines. Unlike sampling most songs that are not in the public domain, it is easy to find royalty free sound effects to use in songs of all types. Here are five of the most intriguing uses of sound effects that were sampled by major artists.
“Paper Planes” by M.I.A.
Fans of M.I.A. were already used to her innovative styles and experimental music when she released “Paper Planes” in 2007 for the soundtrack of the hit movie Slumdog Millionaire. While her vocals sailed over the simple beat at the beginning of the song, it soon became clear that she chose some unmistakable sound effects for the hook. A combination of gunshots and cash register noises added some unique complexity to the song, and the artist later confirmed that she was motivated by a desire to make a statement about how immigrants are perceived by some people. Specifically, she wanted to address the shortsighted stereotypes that often connect immigrant populations with crimes in their own communities. Even those who were unaware of her intentions can easily get this song and its clever use of sound effects stuck in their heads.
“Boys” by Charli XCX
Anyone who grew up playing Super Mario Brothers on Nintendo will instantly recognise the sound effect used extensively in this 2017 song. Pop star Charli XCX has a reputation for using sound distortion and a range of unique samples in her music, but the unmistakable noise of the video game character collecting coins is one that will stand out for generations of Mario fans.
“Olga (1984)” by Rejjie Snow
A perfect mix of jazz and hip hop creates the backdrop for this 2013 song. Before the beat drops and the lyrics start, however, anyone with an Apple iPhone will probably be reaching for their device. The song begins with a clear sample of the ubiquitous Marimba ringtone, which has undoubtedly caused many listeners to mistakenly think they are receiving a call just as the song’s smooth instrumental begins.
“How Much Is the Fish?” by Scooter
Even music fans who do not follow German dance music might have found themselves nodding their heads to this eclectic and unusual 2007 song. There are various sound effects used to create the complex sound, including the discernable sound of shouts and cowbells throughout the track. The frantic and unpredictable noises meshed perfectly with the outrageous lyrics and combined for a truly unforgettable auditory experience for everyone who gave it a listen.
“It’s Probably Me” by Sting and Eric Clapton
Two legendary rock stars teamed up for the oldest song on our list, which came out in 1994. From the very beginning, it is clear that there is a familiar sound effect taking the place of the drums. Instead of bringing in a master musician to sit behind the drum set for this track, they decided to use the instantly recognisable sound of a Zippo lighter being opened, ignited, and closed to keep the beat throughout the song.
