Steve Miller Reacts To Eminem Sample On ‘Houdini’
Steve Miller has written about his classic Abracadabra being sampled by Eminem on the rapper’s comeback single, Houdini.
“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,” Miller wrote in a lengthy message on Instagram. “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.
“I have always tried to credit, honor, and respect the major influencers in my life and to always credit, honor royalties and share knowledge of their work through my own work. 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.”
Miller added that Eminem is one of the few artists “who take the time or make the effort to stand up for themselves and credit and respect their influencers at the same time.” He concluded his letter, writing, “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.”
Houdini was released on Friday (31 May). The star-studded accompanying music video features cameos by Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and 50 Cent, among others.