Samples of a Queen: Lauryn Hill

Let it be forever written that Lauryn Hill is the Queen of Hip Hop. What other MC can drop one album and maintain relevance decades after it's release. Classic. With 'Miseducation of Lauryn Hill', still selling to this day, no wonder artists are finding themselves sampling or covering her work.

Now a few days ago, Rap's golden child Drake released, 'Draft Day' that has a lot of people talking. Some are even comparing it to J. Cole's 'Cole Summer'(Mainly because they both sampled Ms. Hill.) Truth be told, both songs are cold and stand alone as dope samples, however making those side by side comparison ignore artists who have also sampled or covered Queen Hill's lovely ballads.

So to put you on game, The Lab3L has put together Top 10 covers and samples that were inspired by Lauryn Hill, Granted a few of the Queen's songs were also sampled but we'll cover that in another feature. For now, check out some of the coolest songs inspired by the Queen.

R&B 

10. "Ex Factor" 

covered by Beyoncé

First up, we have Beyonce who sang Ex Factor at her concert in Atlantic City. She changed a few notes but nothing to cray that could potentially ruin the classic. Besides, It's Queen B. Do you really think she'd embarrass herself and butcher a Lauryn Hill song?

9. "Lose Myself" 

covered by Marsha Ambrious

Marsha, Marsha, Marsha. With such a unique voice she could easily sell this song as her own. Slowing down the tempo allowed for her to add that sensual flavor she's known for. This version of 'Lose Myself' easily a favorite on her Late Nights and Early Mornings album. 

8. "Tell Him" 

covered by Esperanza Spalding 

In 2009, Esperanza Spalding was of few invited to the White House for an evening of Poetry and Music. She decided to perform and acoustic version of 'Tell Him' which she beautifully orchestrated. I mean the performance speaks for itself. 

HIP HOP

7. "Lost Ones" 
sampled by Jadakiss FT. Pharrell "Knock Yourself Out"

This here is a tricky one, while there is no musical sample Jadakiss did spit a bar demo 'Lost Ones' but cited Lauryn Hill.

6. "Doo Wop (That Thing)" 
sampled by Angel Haze "Doo Wop (That Thing)"

Angel Haze took a raw approach to a more softer song. But her version did gain her a lot of fans amongst out generation who can handle rough raw lyrics. However for some, this version of a classic uplifting song doesn't do it for them. What do you think?

5. "So much things to say" 
sampled by Method Man "Say"

Method Man kept it very Wu-Tangish with song. As most know, Wu Tang is known to have that F*** the industry type of approach with their music and he brought is back with this joint. Anytime an MC is speaking truth over a nice sample, you've got our attention. Take a Listen.

4. "Nothing Even Matters" 
sampled by J. Cole "Cole Summer"

Ahh, Mr. Cole. I don't know many people who didn't appreciate this song. Not only did Cole produce this record but he also sampled it perfectly. Anytime a rapper is being open and kicks a few bars directly to the fans, you have to love it. Cole shows love, and for that he gets love in return. Definitely one of our favorites.

3. "Doo Wop (That Thing)" 
sampled by Drake "Draft Day"

You know Drizzy had to do it for us. By us, we mean all the Lauryn Hill fans. But truthfully speaking, when has Drake ever disappointed? Drake continues to show he has clever and witty ways and telling you he's what's hot. Putting out heat after heat, this sample was just another stage for Drake to show up and show out. 

2. "Zion" 
sampled by J. Cole "Can I Holla at Ya"

J. Cole on Zion was probably one of the best musical things that could happen. Similarly to how Lauryn Hill told a personal story, Cole  gives us personal accounts from his life, showing us there's no better time than now to speak what's on your mind.  

1. "Mystery of Iniquity" 
sampled by Kanye West "All Falls Down"

At number one we chose The Kanye West everyone fell in love with. This soulful song was a mirror to many issues that people are still dealing with today. In addition, did Kanye kill this sample or what? We say yes, and for that this song will be timeless, and let's not forget Syleena Johnson came through in the clutch on the hook. Even the Grammy's agreed as this song was nominated for Best Hip Hop Collaboration. 

The original "All Falls Down" features Lauryn Hill, but due to legal issues as he was acquiring rights to that version, he found it was way took complicated to continue the pursuit. Instead, the track was released on Kanye's "Freshman Adjustment" Tape. You can listen to that version below.

Kanye West x Kendrick Lamar: Yeezus Tour

Yeezy season is definitely still in full session!

Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar stopped through Chicago's United Center home to Chicago Bulls and Black Hawks, this past week and performed two epic shows back to back. We were able to catch the second show and no words can describe how amazing it was. However, if we could, we'd begin by saying, It was an unforgettable movie! Kendrick opened the show, performing a number of tracks from his debut album, 'good kid, m.A.A.d city' along with other fan favorites including F**kin' Problems. Kendrick showed nothing but love all night to his second home and thanked the Chitown crowd for being the first city to accept him as an artist and giving him the opportunity to be an inspiration to his hometown Compton. He also spoke about the many summers he spent in the city as a kid, and asked that we sing about him when he's gone. He left us all proud of how far he has come and how humble he still is about his rising fame.

                                     


However, no one could keep their composure when the second half of the show started. The lights dimmed as a beaming light appeared from the ceiling. We waited for Ye's appearance and the crowd collectively chanted "Yeezus", until he made his way to the center stage. The hometown hero performed every track from his debut album, 'Yeezus' as well as a few songs from 'Cruel Summers'. He also gave us a sermon on why Chicago should not have let Michael Jordan play for the Wizards but let him be an owner. He went further to tell us, we could do anything we put our minds to even if everyone thinks we're crazy. It may have seemed like a typical Kanye rant but everything he said was authentic, timely and so necessary. Just when you thought it was over, Kanye reminded us that he has been that guy since, 'Through the Wire,' and performed several hits from previous albums. Ye not only energetically, entertained the crowd, he encouraged every audience member to do whatever we could dream of, with no looking back. All in all, Kendrick and Kanye put on a great show and it was well worth the wait. We don't know any one who thought any less of the critically acclaimed tour. If  'Yeezus' is coming to a city near you, do not miss out, this epic show will easily become on of your favorite life moments. Check out a few snippets:

Also, Check out pics from the pop up shop!

 

Who is Nick Knight? What You May and May Not Know About the 'Bound 2' Director?

For those who are not familiar, well Nick Knight is something like a big deal. You know all those spectacular high fashion look books you love to browse by Alexander McQueen, Levi, Christian Dior, Jil Sander..Louis?

Nick Knight, behind the scenes

Well, British photographer Nick Knight was of the first to capture fashion with such breath taking simplicity. Below is one of his photos from the Yohji Yamamoto 1986 catalogs. 

Yohji Yamamoto 1986

No wonder a decade later, fashion icon Kanye West decided to work with Nick Knight.

Kanye West - Back Skinhead

There first collaborations together included the famous shoot that Kanye and Kim did for the L'Officiel Hommes spread. In addition he also snapped those great photos of Kanye for his New York Times interview.

L'Officiel Hommes Spring 2013 Issue

They later worked 5 long months on the 'Black Skinhead' music video. Considering Nick Knight's deep interest in skinheads, this collaboration came at no surprise. In 1982 he published a photography book entitled, 'Skinhead' which put him on the map for many projects that followed.

We all know Kanye loves a theme and when he finds a good momentum and inspiration he sticks with it until he's inspired by something new. Hence, the duo teamed up yet again for the dreamy love story of Kim and Kanye told in 'Bound 2'. 

The video shows Kim nude on a motorcycle, riding shot gun and traditionally. Kanye and Kim show the world there is more than one way to ride into your destiny in this American love story. Away with the horses and gas up the Harley's as we ride into the sunset with Fashion's hottest couple. 

How do you feel about the Nick Knight and Kanye collaborations? 

The New Fashion Killas: 15-Style Icons of Our Generation

Our "Make That Move Monday" feature and entry is from an aspiring journalist Orion McBean! This fashionista reigns from Harlem, New York but she's ready to take over the world. Check out her take on a few fashion icons of our generation below! 

Everybody now days think they have what it takes to be a fashion star. But it takes more than just knowing the lyrics to ASAP Rocky’s “Fashion Killa” to be considered a fashion icon in this generation. A true style star transcends the common trends, takes fashion risks and redefines all couture rules. And we’re here to give credit where credit’s actually due. So here’s 15 Fashion Icons of our generation who never fail to wow us with their fun and creative fashion senses. Did your favorite style setter make the list?

Vashtie

One of the few girls in the game who can rock some tims and make it look super chic, Vashtie is NYC’s downtown fashion sweetheart and our tomboy princess. We can’t get enough of her effortless style-sense and down-to-earth personality. Our type of city girl.

Solange

When au naturale beauty meets couture, you’ve got you some Solange. We’re so glad she came out from the shadows of Queen B and finally found a fashion realm of her own. And her fashion sense is actually better than her sisters, if you ask us.

Rihanna

Ever since her signature “Umbrella” bob hair cut, Rihanna has always maintained a sexy chic look with an urban flare. And with her clothing line Rihanna for River Island now in stores, we can all look ‘Phresh Off The Runway’ in threads designed by Rih Rih herself.

Tracee Ellis Ross

If there’s any woman who epitomizes grown and sexy, it’s Tracee Ellis Ross. The ‘Black Girls Rock!’ star has always looked fierce in classic and bold pieces. She wore the midi skirt before it was even hot. Talk about trend setting.

Kim Kardashian

We may not support her talentless stardom but we must admit, Kim Kardashian has made her way into the fashion game. Lately her style has gone from flashy Hollywood to high-end couture and we thank God for Kanye’s influence. In our opinion, she needed it.

June Ambrose

With stars like Jay Z and Diddy under her styling belt, June Ambrose has definitely made a name for herself as one of top stylists in the industry. She takes fashion to new heights with her signature turban looks no one else can pull off. And the best part, her daughter is her style assistant. How adorbs!

Lady Gaga

Ok. We know what you’re thinking. Lady Gaga is ‘cray cray’ when it comes to fashion. But we gotta give it to her, she makes you look. The ‘Applause’ pop star has no rules when it comes to her style and whether you like it or not, Gaga knows how to shock the crowed like no other.

Kerry Washington

Thanks to her character ‘Liv’s stylish fashion sense on the show, Kerry Washington has definitely stepped her game up when it comes to looking feminine and fly. When you’re elegant and classy like Kerry, you never look anything less.

Zoe Kravitz

As the queen of Boho chic, we certainly dig Zoe Kravitz’s idgaf attitude about her fashion style. Seems like every time we see her out, she’s giving a big F-U to the lames who follow magazines for fashion tips. Wish we could be this blunt about defying the rules.

Kanye West

Whether you think he’s arrogant or egotistical, you can’t deny the fact that Kanye is a fashion guru. Merging the two worlds of hip-hop and high-end fashion, Kanye has his style sense down pack. It’s simply “Can’t tell me nothing.” Love him or hate him, he’s still going to be dope dresser Yeezy.

A$AP Rocky

And he’s a trendy n****. ASAP Rocky that is! The fashion killa himself hit the scene with his 90s cornrows, west coast rhymes and all the way harlem swag. We know he enjoys the finer things in life when it comes to fashion and we can’t blame him-- he wears them oh so well.

Victor Cruz

Victor Cruz is one of the few athletes who stays dressed to impress. He was named ‘Best Dress of 2012’ by Vanity Fair and has also been featured in many publications like GQ and Esquire. Guess it’s safe to say when it comes to fashion, Victor plays no games.

Justin Timberlake

Known as the white boy in the game with so much soul, Justin Timberlake has definitely brought sexy back for the fellas. We don’t think anyone is touching his “Suit and Tie” swag let alone his ‘20/20 Experience’ masterpiece.

Pharrell

Who else takes the fashion game by storm other than Skate Boy P himself. Pharrell has managed to produce hits for the past 15-years and looking super fresh while doing so. Did we mention how fine he is too? The total package.

Jeremy Scott

Granted he’s a fashion designer, but there’s something about Jeremy Scott’s style that we love. It’s retro, innovative and dope on so many levels. He’s designed for the best like Rihanna and Kanye, and his creative looks such as his signature Adidas sneakers lets us know fashion can still be fun. 

-Orion McBean