
Sample This 2013
Step into the gritty, rhythm-driven world of *Sample This* (2013), a gripping documentary that dives deep into the moment hip hop's backbone was forged on the streets of the Bronx.
Director: Dan Forrer
Cast








Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sample This (2013) about?
*Sample This* (2013) follows the pivotal role a forgotten Incredible Bongo Band record played in shaping the foundation of hip hop. The documentary highlights how DJ Kool Herc extended the record's percussion by playing it back-to-back, creating a groundbreaking anthem that echoed through the Bronx streets and beyond.
Who directed Sample This?
Sample This was directed by Dan Forrer, who brings a keen eye for music history and cultural storytelling to the film.
Who stars in Sample This?
The documentary features notable figures like Gene Simmons, Melle Mel, Questlove, Rosey Grier, Jerry Butler, and Grandmaster Caz.
Is Sample This (2013) worth watching?
Absolutely—if you love music history or hip hop culture, *Sample This* is a must-watch. Its concise runtime of 85 minutes packs a punch, offering insight into a pivotal moment in music that's often overlooked. The film's authenticity and star-studded interviews make it a compelling watch for any film or music enthusiast.
How long is Sample This?
*Sample This* runs for 85 minutes.
About Sample This (2013) — How a single record shaped hip hop history
Step into the gritty, rhythm-driven world of *Sample This* (2013), a gripping documentary that dives deep into the moment hip hop's backbone was forged on the streets of the Bronx. Directed by Dan Forrer, this film uncovers the untold story behind a forgotten record by the Incredible Bongo Band—a record that DJ Kool Herc transformed into a legendary anthem by extending its percussion through his iconic back-to-back DJing technique. With the infectious energy of hip hop's early days as its backdrop, *Sample This* paints a vivid portrait of how a simple beat became the foundation of an entire culture.
Through interviews with legends like Gene Simmons, Melle Mel, and Questlove, the documentary explores themes of innovation, community, and the power of a single record to spark a revolution. The film's raw, nostalgic atmosphere captures the essence of 1970s New York, where DJs like Herc turned turntables into instruments of cultural change. Whether you're a hip hop purist or a music history buff, *Sample This* offers a fresh perspective on how a forgotten groove became the heartbeat of a global movement.