Interesting Samples & Interpolations in Beyoncé Songs You Might Have Missed

Beyoncé’s discography is a testament to her unparalleled artistry and attention to detail, with each track carefully crafted to evoke emotion, tell a story, or empower her audience. One often-overlooked aspect of her music is her clever use of sampling and interpolation, paying homage to iconic tracks while transforming them into something distinctly her own. There follows a detailed breakdown of several interesting samples and interpolations that make features throughout her discography.

1. “Bootylicious” (2001) – Stevie Nicks’ Edge of Seventeen (1981)

The unmistakable guitar riff that opens Destiny’s Child‘s Bootylicious comes directly from Stevie Nicks’ Edge of Seventeen. This bold move not only infused the track with a sense of rock energy but also caught the attention of Stevie Nicks herself, who later embraced the song and performed it with Beyoncé.

2. “Crazy in Love” (2003) – The Chi-Lites’ Are You My Woman (Tell Me So) (1970)

That Crazy in Love driving horn sample is instantly recognizable and drives the energetic tone of the song. Owing to The Chi-Lites’ Are You My Woman (Tell Me So), the track is an integral part of that which sent the song hurtling into pop history as one of Beyoncé’s most recognized.

3. “Be with You” (2003) – Bootsy Collins’ *I’d Rather Be with You* (1976)

In this smooth and sultry track from her debut solo album, Beyoncé interpolates Bootsy Collins’ I’d Rather Be with You. The funky, laid-back vibe of the original is reimagined, giving the song an intimate, modern R&B feel.

4. “Upgrade U” (2006) – Betty Wright’s Girls Can’t Do What the Guys Do (1968)

Upgrade U pays homage to Betty Wright’s Girls Can’t Do What the Guys Do with a sample that underpins the song’s empowering message about relationships and ambition. Wright’s influence lends a timeless quality to the track.  

5. “Hold Up” (2016) – Andy Williams’ Can’t Get Used to Losing You (1963)

On Hold Up, Beyoncé samples Andy Williams’ Can’t Get Used to Losing You. This 1960s hit is seamlessly integrated into the song’s reggae-infused beat, which goes to show Beyoncé can merge genres and eras with ease.

6. “Run the World (Girls)” (2011) – Major Lazer’s Pon De Floor (2009)

Most of the explosive energy of Run the World (Girls) emanates from its sample of Major Lazer’s Pon De Floor. The track’s pulsating beats and dancehall origins provide the perfect backdrop to Beyoncé’s anthem of female empowerment.

7. “Suga Mama” (2006) – The Soul Searchers’ Searching for Soul (1970)

On Suga Mama, Beyoncé tapped into the rich funk of The Soul Searchers’ Searching for Soul. The groove-heavy sample sets the bed for this playful and seductive track.

8. “Party” (2011) – Keith Sweat’s Right and a Wrong Way (1987)

Beyoncé’s Party interpolated Keith Sweat’s Right and a Wrong Way, tapping into the smooth vibes of the late ’80s. This nostalgic touch brings out the laid-back celebratory feel of the song.

9. “Naughty Girl” (2003) – Donna Summer’s Love to Love You Baby (1975)

Paying homage to the disco queen Donna Summer, Naughty Girl jacks from Love to Love You Baby. Beyoncé brings the sultry feel and sex appeal of the original to a performance that sounds retro and modern at the same time.

10. “Deja Vu” (2006) – B.T. Express’ Do It (‘Til You’re Satisfied) (1974)

The frenetic drum pattern in Deja Vu comes courtesy of B.T. Express’ Do It (‘Til You’re Satisfied). This subtle nod to classic funk enhances the song’s dynamic rhythm and intensity.

11. “If” (2006) – Natalie Cole’s Inseparable (1975)

If, a passionate ballad, includes a lift from Natalie Cole’s Inseparable. The hook brings about a poignant emotional depth for the honor of one of the most iconic voices the soul has ever seen.

12. “Part II (On the Run)” (2013) – One Way’s Believe in Me (1985)

In this song featuring Jay-Z, Beyoncé sampled One Way’s Believe in Me. The dreamy and atmospheric sound of the original perfectly complements the song’s romantic and introspective tone.

The Art of Reinvention

Beyoncé does not only pay homage to her musical influences through sampling and interpolation but also reimagines them in her work. She reworks everything she borrows, merging past and present into timeless pieces that resonate across generations. To the fans, delving into the origins of the songs will add another layer of appreciation for Beyoncé’s artistry and how she can curate a sonic tapestry that bridges eras and genres.

Which of these samples was the most surprising to you? Let us know your favorites!