Les McCann, the legendary jazz musician whose pioneering soul jazz rhythms became a staple in hip-hop sampling, has passed away at 88. McCann’s influence on music extended beyond his genre, reaching the echelons of hip-hop royalty such as Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre, who sampled his groovy tunes to create iconic beats that defined an era.
With a career spanning over five decades and more than 50 albums to his name, McCann carved a niche in the music world that resonated with artists across various genres. His 1967 protest song “Compared to What,” performed with saxophonist Eddie Harris, remained one of his most renowned pieces, encapsulating the essence of his ability to blend jazz with social commentary.
Les McCann’s music was not merely listened to; it was experienced and felt. This visceral connection to his compositions made his work ripe for sampling in the hands of hip-hop visionaries. Notably, Notorious B.I.G.’s “10 Crack Commandments” featured a sample of McCann’s “Vallarta,” adding a layer of depth to the song’s gritty narrative. Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre’s “The Next Episode” borrowed from “Go on and Cry,” a testament to McCann’s timeless appeal.
An undeniable force in the world of jazz, McCann taught himself piano after his first teacher’s untimely death and quickly rose to fame following a performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. His self-taught virtuosity and ear for blending complex jazz melodies with soulful grooves made him a favorite among musicians and producers. Nearly 300 artists, including Warren G., Slick Rick, Cypress Hill, and Nas, have sampled his work, underscoring his vast impact on the music industry.
Born in Lexington, Kentucky in 1935, McCann’s talent was evident early on. Despite suffering a stroke in 1995, McCann’s passion for music never waned, and he continued to inspire through his performances and recordings.
As the news of his passing surfaces, the hip-hop community and music lovers worldwide are reminded of McCann’s indelible mark on the soundtrack of our lives. From the jazzy riffs that underscored the protest movements of the ’60s to the beats that have people nodding their heads to hip-hop anthems, Les McCann’s legacy lives on.
Looking back at McCann’s influence on music, it becomes clear that his compositions were more than just songs; they were cultural touchstones that bridged the gap between genres and generations. His manager, Alan Abrahams, disclosed that McCann had developed pneumonia before his passing, yet his memory and music continue to resonate with vibrant energy and relevance.
Relevant articles:
– Les McCann, Jazz Pioneer Sampled by Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg, and Dr. Dre, Dead at 88
– Les McCann, jazz pioneer sampled by Notorious B.I.G., Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, has died
– Dr. Dre, Mobb Deep and Massive Attack: Top 5 hip-hop songs that sampled late jazz legend Les McCann