Coi Leray Players: The Story Behind the Sample and the Message

Coi Leray Players: How the Rapper Sampled a Hip-Hop Classic

Coi Leray is a rising star in the rap scene, known for her catchy hooks, confident attitude, and colorful style. Her latest single, “Players”, is a playful anthem for independent women who don’t need a man to have fun.

But did you know that the song also pays homage to one of the most influential tracks in hip-hop history? Here’s everything you need to know about Coi Leray Players and the sample that made it possible.

What is the sample in Coi Leray Players?

The sample in Coi Leray Players is the iconic beat from “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, featuring Grandmaster Melle Mel and Duke Bootee. The song was released in 1982 and is widely considered as one of the first rap songs to address the social and economic issues of urban life.

The song’s hook, “Don’t push me ’cause I’m close to the edge / I’m trying not to lose my head”, has become a cultural reference point for generations of hip-hop fans and artists.

The sample in Coi Players is not a direct interpolation, but rather a recreation by producer Johnny Goldstein, who added some modern elements and effects to the original beat.

The sample is used throughout the song, creating a contrast between the old-school vibe and Coi Leray’s contemporary lyrics and delivery.

How did Coi Leray get permission to use the sample?

Coi Leray did not just use the sample without permission, but rather sought out the approval and blessing of Grandmaster Flash himself. According to an Instagram post by Coi Leray, the rapper freestyled the entire song in one take and then contacted Flash to ask him if she could use his beat.

Flash agreed to meet her in person and listen to her song, and was impressed by her talent and vision. He praised her for being someone who “knows what she wants” and gave her the green light to use the sample.

He also posted a video of their meeting on his Instagram, expressing his admiration and support for Coi Leray.

What is the meaning and message of Coi Players?

Coi Players is a song that celebrates female empowerment and independence. Coi Leray sings about how she doesn’t need a man to make her happy, and how she can have fun and make money on her own terms.

She also boasts about her success and status and how she can do whatever she wants as a boss. She flips the script on the stereotype of men being players and claims that girls are players too.

She also references some of her influences and peers in the rap industry, such as Lil Kim, Nicki Minaj, and Megan Thee Stallion.

The song is also a tribute to the legacy and impact of Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, and how they paved the way for hip-hop culture and music.

Coi Leray shows her respect and appreciation for the genre’s pioneers and how she is inspired by their message and style.

She also connects the song’s theme to the current social and political climate and how women are still fighting for equality and justice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When and where was Coi Leray Players released?

A: Coi Leray Players was released on November 30, 2022, through Republic Records and 1801 as the lead single from her second studio album, Coi (2023).

Q: How did Coi Leray Players perform on the charts and streaming platforms?

A: Coi Players was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100, and becoming Coi Leray’s highest-peaking single to date.

The song also went viral on TikTok, thanks to a remix by DJ Smallz 732 that spawned a popular dance challenge. The song has amassed over 200 million streams on Spotify and over 100 million views on YouTube.

Q: Are there any official remixes or versions of Coi Leray Players?

A: Yes, there are several official remixes and versions of Coi Players, including: