The Notorious B.I.G.’s ‘Ready To Die’ Turns 30: Here Are All The Samples On The Classic Hip Hop Album

Exploring the Iconic Samples in The Notorious B.I.G.’s Debut Album “Ready to Die”

Released September 13 1994, Ready to Die, The Notorious B.I.G.’s debut album, is a cornerstone of 1990s hip-hop, shaping the East Coast rap scene with its blend of personal narratives, gritty street life depictions, and infectious beats. It is B.I.G.’s only album released while he was alive as he was tragically shot in Los Angeles 13 days before the release of his sophomore album “Life After Death.”

One of the most distinctive elements of the album is Biggie’s masterful use of sampling—a tool in hip-hop that connects the past to the present, infusing the music with layers of cultural references. The album’s tracks pull from a diverse pool of R&B, funk, soul, and even other rap songs, creating a sonic landscape that balances nostalgia with innovation

Here’s a look at all the samples that helped define The Notorious B.I.G.’s Ready to Die, along with the producers behind each track:

1. “Intro”
   Producer: Sean “Diddy” Combs
   Biggie sets the stage for his journey from childhood to adulthood, using iconic samples that shape his narrative:

   • “Superfly” by Curtis Mayfield
   • “Rapper’s Delight” by the Sugarhill Gang
   • “Top Billin'” by Audio Two
   • “Tha Shiznit” by Snoop Dogg
     These samples reflect Biggie’s evolution, drawing from different musical eras and styles.

2. “Things Done Changed”
   Producer: Easy Mo Bee
   Biggie explores how life has shifted, sampling:

   • “California My Way” and “Summer Breeze” by The Main Ingredient, adding a nostalgic, soulful feel
   • “Vapors” by Biz Markie, connecting to themes of transformation and loss

3. “Gimme the Loot”
   Producer: Easy Mo Bee
   Biggie takes on a gritty persona, with aggressive samples driving the track:

   • “Smokin’ Cheeba-Cheeba” by the Harlem Underground Band
   • “Coldblooded” by James Brown
   • “Throw Ya Gunz” by Onyx
     These samples intensify the track’s streetwise energy.

4. “Machine Gun Funk”
   Producer: Easy Mo Bee
   Reflecting Biggie’s life in the streets, the samples here add to the track’s intensity:

   • “Something Extra” by Black Heat
   • “Chief Rocka” by Lords of the Underground
     The funky yet hard-hitting samples help amplify Biggie’s gritty lyrics.

5. “Warning”
   Producer: Easy Mo Bee
   A tale of paranoia and betrayal, “Warning” is built around:

   • “Walk on By” by Isaac Hayes
   • “Thinking” by The Meters
     The samples set a cinematic and suspenseful tone that mirrors the story.

6. “Juicy”
   Producer: Poke (of Trackmasters)
   One of Biggie’s most iconic tracks, celebrating success, samples:

   • “Juicy Fruit (‘Fruity’ Instrumental Mix)” by Mtume
     The smooth, laid-back instrumental creates the perfect contrast to Biggie’s reflections on his rise to fame.

7. “Big Poppa”
   Producers: Chucky Thompson & Sean “Diddy” Combs
   Biggie’s smooth, mainstream hit draws from:

   • “Between the Sheets” by The Isley Brothers
   • “Dolly My Baby (Bad Boy Extended Remix)” by Super Cat
     These samples give the song a silky, laid-back vibe with a hint of reggae flavor.

8. “Everyday Struggle”
   Producer: Norman “Digger” Smalls
   In this reflective track, Biggie samples:

   • “Either Way” by Dave Grusin
     The sample underscores the hardships and weight of Biggie’s lyrics with a somber tone.

9. “Unbelievable”
   Producer: DJ Premier
   Biggie’s lyrical prowess shines with production that incorporates:

   • “Impeach the President” by The Honey Drippers
   • “Kitty With the Bent Frame” by Quincy Jones
     These samples add depth and complexity to the beat, complementing Biggie’s flow.

10. “Suicidal Thoughts”
    Producer: Lord Finesse
    The album’s emotional closer features:

• “Lonely Fire” by Miles Davis
• “Outside Love” by Brethren
  These haunting samples match the dark, introspective nature of Biggie’s verses, bringing the album to a powerful conclusion.