this discussion reminds me of jay-z sampling “khusara khusara” by hossam ramzy for “big pimpin”. he actually got sued for that. folks can get two discs of jay-z’s sample sources here… including the “big beat” also used by dizzee ras for “fix up, look sharp”.

i’ve always found it ironic all the interest in middle eastern or indian sample sources by “mainstream” musicians, given their (often) total ignorance (or hate) of middle eastern or indian people. note that i’m not saying the rza or timbaland is ignorant or a hater of middle eastern folks, more that the yuppies shaking in their khakis in the clubs on the east end of long island are, well… you know.

on the other hand, it’s an opening. it’s evidence to some that maybe we shouldn’t bomb (or politically strangle) these countries… i just doubt that tablas in a pop song is enough.