Steve Miller has some strong opinions about Eminem sampling 'Abracadabra' for comeback single 'Houdini'
4 June 2024, 13:17
Steve Miller Band – Unboxing 'J50- The Evolution of The Joke
Steve Miller hails Eminim as the rapper borrows a hook for his latest return.
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Guess who's back (back again). Eminem has returned for what probably counts as his third or fourth "comeback" and this time he's brought a friend – his alter ego Slim Shady.
The lead single from The Death of Slim Shady (Coup de Grâce) is called 'Houdini' and features an incredibly prominent sample from a classic rock track.
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As well as cheeky samples from his own 'My Name Is', 'Without Me' and 'Just Lose It', the main hook comes from 'Abracadabra', the massive 1982 single from the Steve Miller Band.
Following the single's launch last month, Steve Miller himself has now shared his thoughts on Marshall Mathers borrowing from his hit, writing an open letter to Eminem on his Instagram page.
"There is a long chain of stories, poetry, lyrics, and musical roots that have crossed cultures and generations inspiring the whole world for hundreds of years and in all those lines of thought, music, and rhythm there are special artists who take it all in and create new original ideas from their own feelings and experiences," he said.
"You are one of those timeless originators building something new on a long musical legacy of original artists.
"For me it’s Les Paul, T-Bone Walker, Bill Doggett, Johnny Guitar Watson, Howlin’ Wolf, Jimmy Reed, the Beatles, Chuck Berry, Willy Dixon, Leiber & Stoller, Cannonball Adderley, John Coltrane & Miles Davis."
He added: "I have always tried to credit, honour, and respect the major influencers in my life and to always credit, honor royalties and share knowledge of their work through my own work.
Eminem - Houdini [Official Music Video]
"I didn’t know it would be this way when I was a kid trying to make a living playing music and making records, I only knew I had to respect the art that came before me and fight for it too among all the crooks, thieves, and imposters.
"There aren’t many artists who take the time or make the effort to stand up for themselves and credit and respect their influencers at the same time.
"Marshall Mathers you are an exception and on my short list of people who respect the art. To be included in your process feels good while I’m still singing and playing the music I love. I’m Honored."
