What makes All Samples Cleared! by Biz Markie notable?

All Samples Cleared! is notable for its use of samples from various genres, reflecting the evolving nature of hip-hop production in the early '90s. The album received positive critical reception, particularly for tracks like I’m the Biz Markie, which reinforced his status in hip-hop culture and laid the groundwork for future artists who embraced sampling techniques. Additionally, it contributed to discussions around copyright and sampling practices in music. Released in 1993, All Samples Cleared! was Biz Markie's fourth studio album, following his breakthrough success with The Biz Never Sleeps. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation as a unique voice in hip-hop, known for his humorous style and sampling prowess. This album further established him in the industry, particularly after the mainstream acceptance of his earlier works.

Who is All Samples Cleared! for?

All Samples Cleared! works well if you're into playful humor throughout listening, steady groove for social gatherings and mid-tempo tracks encourage dancing.

How many songs are on All Samples Cleared!?

All Samples Cleared! has 12 tracks, running approximately 54 minutes.

All Samples Cleared!

Biz Markie · 1993

54 min · 12 tracks · hip-hop

A playful blend of humor and clever wordplay over funky beats, showcasing Biz Markie's signature charm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I’m the Biz Markie — This track serves as a confident introduction to the album, encapsulating Biz's playful lyricism and distinct vocal delivery that set him apart from contemporaries.
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Family Tree — In just over two minutes, Family Tree offers a personal glimpse into Biz's life and relationships, showcasing his storytelling ability amidst a catchy beat.
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Funk Is Back — Reviving classic funk influences, this track exemplifies Biz's knack for blending genres while maintaining a lighthearted vibe that defines much of his work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100

Foothills

Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends humor and sampling effectively, showcasing Biz Markie's unique style within hip-hop.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of playful, humorous lyrics that often incorporate clever wordplay and storytelling.
Several tracks utilize samples from diverse genres, creating a rich tapestry of sound that reflects the era's hip-hop production style.
The sequencing includes interludes and skits that break up the flow, contributing to a lighthearted atmosphere throughout the record.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful humor throughout listening
steady groove for social gatherings
mid-tempo tracks encourage dancing
clever samples spark curiosity

Maybe skip if you

prefer high-energy instant gratification
dislike playful lyrical content

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1993, All Samples Cleared! was Biz Markie's fourth studio album, following his breakthrough success with The Biz Never Sleeps. At this point in his career, he was solidifying his reputation as a unique voice in hip-hop, known for his humorous style and sampling prowess. This album further established him in the industry, particularly after the mainstream acceptance of his earlier works.
Stylistic neighbors: DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince· De La Soul· Kid 'n Play