Michael \u201cFinatik\u201d Mule and Isaac \u201cZac\u201d De Boni, collectively known as FnZ, stumbled upon an obscure snippet from the \u201970s horror film \u201cInvasion of the Bee Girls\u201d while scouring YouTube for new sounds. They transformed this eerie segment from the soundtrack into a haunting sample, which eventually became a pivotal part of the viral hook on Drake and 21 Savage\u2019s hit track \u201cRich Flex,\u201d landing at No. 22 on Variety\u2019s 2023 Hitmakers Top 25.<\/p>\n
Initially, the duo crafted the sample as one of several ideas during a productive session. Mule recalls that it was just one of many concepts they generated that day and was initially just one idea among many. It was later revisited when they shared a folder of 15 samples with producer Vinylz, including the \u201cBee Girls\u201d sample and another snippet from Sugar\u2019s \u201cI Want You, Girl,\u201d intending them for different beats and artists.<\/p>\n
Vinylz, renowned for his creativity, saw potential in these diverse samples. Drake had expressed interest in creating an anthem for the \u201cHer Loss\u201d album with 21 Savage. Upon receiving FnZ\u2019s and BoogzDaBeast\u2019s samples, Vinylz meticulously fused them together, crafting a unique blend that resonated with Drake\u2019s vision. The superstar rapper provided feedback on the drum sounds and outro, even adding a switch-up beat at the end, which was produced by Tay Keith.<\/p>\n
Initially, \u201cRich Flex\u201d wasn\u2019t slated as a single release from the album. However, TikTok\u2019s traction with the \u201c21, can you do something for me?\u201d snippet propelled its viral status, generating memes that humorously referenced Drake. Despite this unexpected twist, Drake appeared to embrace the fun side of the memes. The song\u2019s popularity skyrocketed, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100, captivating audiences with its distinctive structure that transitions from a mellow, soulful \u201970s sample to a darker, more intense beat.<\/p>\n
FnZ attributes the success of \u201cRich Flex\u201d to this unconventional arrangement. Mule underscores how the song shifts from a sweet soul sample to a menacing beat, evoking a distinct mood transition. Vinylz echoes this sentiment, highlighting the infectious energy and catchy lyrics delivered by Drake and 21 Savage. The duo also recognizes their knack for discovering and manipulating unique samples, a skill they aim to continually refine and leverage in their music.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s a craft we\u2019ve really mastered,\u201d Mule affirms. \u201cWe derive immense satisfaction from unearthing or creating these samples that are unlike anything else out there.\u201d<\/p>\n
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SONGWRITERS<\/strong>: A. Graham, S. Bin Abraham-Joseph, A. Hernandez, T. B. Chambers, M. Mule, I. De Boni, J. Gwin, C. Bernstein, Megan Pete, B.D. Session Jr., A.G. White, G. Hayes, C. Harris, A. Davis<\/p>\n PRODUCERS<\/strong>: Vinylz, Tay Keith, FNZ, BoogzDaBeast<\/p>\n HITMAKERS<\/strong>: LABEL<\/strong>: Republic<\/p>\n PUBLISHERS<\/strong>:\u00a0<\/strong>Sandra Gale (GMR) adm. by Universal Music Works \/ Slaughter Gang Publishing, LLC \/ Administered by BMG Rights Management (ASCAP) \/ VIRGOAT \/ Admin by WC Music Corp. (ASCAP) \/ Lakeith Legacy Publishing\/Warner Tamerlane Publishing Corp. (BMI) \/ MJM 87 Publishing \/ These Are Pulse Songs (BMI). Administered worldwide by Concord Music Publishing \/ MJM 87 Publishing \/ These Are Pulse Songs (BMI). Administered worldwide by Concord Music Publishing \/ Jahmal Gwin \/ BoardMemberz Music, LLC \/ Sony-ATV (BMI) Turnstyle Music (ASCAP) \/ Songs of Universal (BMI) \/ Sony\/ATV Songs, LLC (BMI) \/ Songs of Kobalt Music Publishing (BMI) \/ Underground Music (BMI) \/ Domani and Ya Majesty\u2019s Music (ASCAP) \/ Sony\/ATV Allegro (ASCAP) \/ Aldrin Davis Publishing Designee (BMI) \/ Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp (BMI)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\nVinylz, producer
\nFnZ, producers
\nTim Hrycyshyn, senior VP, digital strategy, Republic
\nMike Horton, exec VP, promotion, Republic
\nDavey Dee, senior VP, rhythm cross promotion, Republic<\/p>\n