FT News Briefing FT Weekend: The story behind one of reggae’s most sampled songs
Apr 16, 2022
Alice Kemp-Habib, a freelance journalist and reggae expert, discusses the saga of Sister Nancy's iconic song 'Bam Bam,' revealing how it became one of the most sampled tracks without earning her a dime for over 30 years. Tim Harford, the Undercover Economist, shares insights on facing failure, using a Broadway flop that eventually won a Tony as a case study. Together, they explore the cultural significance of reggae and the ongoing struggle for artists' rights in the music industry, highlighting resilience and creative growth.
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Episode notes
Bam Bam's Ozark Revival
- Sister Nancy's Bam Bam was featured in Ozark's season 4 premiere.
- The song topped charts, highlighting its enduring popularity and influence.
Sister Nancy's Early Career
- Sister Nancy, a female dancehall DJ, rose in the 1970s alongside her brother, Brigadier Jerry.
- Starting young, she performed with sound systems and eventually recorded her debut album.
Bam Bam's Sample-ability
- Bam Bam blends iconic Jamaican songs, making it instantly recognizable and sample-friendly.
- Its use of Toots and the Maytals and the Stalag rhythm evokes Jamaican musical heritage.
