What is amen break?

The Amen Break is a 6-second drum solo from the track "Amen, Brother" by the soul group The Winstons, released in 1969. Performed by drummer Gregory Coleman, this break has become arguably the most sampled piece of music in history.

Its widespread use stems from the early days of sampling in hip-hop, jungle, and drum and bass music. Producers found the energetic and complex rhythm of the Amen%20Break incredibly versatile and suitable for manipulation. It was easily accessible via early samplers and drum machines.

The Amen%20Break's legacy is complex. While The Winstons never received royalties for the countless times the sample was used, its influence on modern music is undeniable. It is a foundational element in genres across the electronic and hip-hop spectrum.

The prevalence of the sample also raises important questions about copyright, attribution, and the ethics of sampling in music production. While not universally known by name, the Amen%20Break's sound is deeply ingrained in popular culture.