The Break Down #1: Detroit Emeralds – “You’re Getting a Little Too Smart” By Frost Gamble
“The Break Down” analyzes classic breaks and how they were used in Hip Hop over the years. We also
During hip-hop’s golden years, a producer wasn’t judged by how many plug-ins, rack modules or keyboards he had – it was all about having a deep record collection to sample from. Drum breaks were of particular importance as the foundation for countless classics. In this series, I’ll look back at important drum breaks and how they were used by producers and artists over the last 20 years.
The Detroit Emeralds began as a vocal group, consisting of four brothers from Little Rock, AR – but by the time their 1973 Album I’m In Love With You dropped – they were down to two brothers, Ivory and Abrim Tilmon, plus band mate James Mitchell. The album’s cover makes it easily recognizable – emerald green border, emerald green suits – it looks something like a funky box of Lucky Charms. And Side A, Track 3 gives us one of the most recognizable drum breaks of all time. You’re Getting… hasn’t been used as much as say, Impeach the President or Amen, but the crisp snare, clean kick and open hi hat featured in the first four bars have been the basis for several great hip-hop songs.
The Detroit Emeralds – You’re Getting A Little Too Smart
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