Wu-Tang's Beatles Sample Not Really a Sample After All

Posted on Oct 4th 2007 12:00PM by Tracey Ford
Comments

Wu-Tang Clan seemed to make history this week when they claimed to have "cleared the first-ever Beatles sample" for a song on their upcoming album, '8 Diagrams.' One small problem -- it's not really a true sample.

Turns out that the Wu actually cleared a "composition sample," not a "master sample." In layman's terms, it means they have the Beatles' blessing to include the notes that comprise 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' in their new track, but they don't have the right to lift a piece of the George Harrison-penned classic straight off the 'White Album.'

The track will still feature contributions from Dhani Harrison (son of the late Beatle) and Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist John Frusciante. Wu-Tang debuted the song on Wednesday.