Earlier today (6 February), news emerged that David Axelrod, the pioneering composer and musician, had died at the age of 83.
Born in LA in 1933, Axelrod went on to become a hugely influential figure in contemporary music, working at Capitol Records in production and A&R in the 1960s then releasing a handful of his own LPs.
In the 1990s, Axelrod’s work re-emerged when artists from the hip-hop community began frequently sampling his work.
Many of those artists shared tributes across social media today. Hip-hop journalist Jeff Weiss paid tribute by sharing a screen-grab of the ‘Influence’ section of Axelrod’s Wikipedia page. An extensive breakdown can also be found on sampling encyclopaedia site, WhoSampled.
The list showcases the breadth and volume of artists who have sampled Axelrod’s work through the years. Check out Weiss’ tweets and a selection of others below. Billboard notes that details of Axelrod’s death are still unknown.
Just a few of the David Axelrod samples in hip-hop. He was easily one of the most brilliant composers of the last half century. pic.twitter.com/hSnlsPwWx4
— Otto Von Biz Markie (@Passionweiss) February 5, 2017
Fuck. RIP David Axelrod.
— Hudson Mohawke (@HudMo) February 5, 2017
RIP David Axelrod. A true legend… pic.twitter.com/n8JxqKbQ5E
— BRAINFEEDER (@BRAINFEEDER) February 6, 2017
RIP to the great David Axelrod. https://t.co/6Qg5asMMEC
— FLYLO (@flyinglotus) February 6, 2017
So honored to have known you David, you are a bonafide hero to an entire generation of hip-hop kids and musical dreamers. Miss you Axe!!!
— DJ Shadow (@djshadow) February 6, 2017
David could be incredibly intimidating, & he did not suffer fools…but if he liked & respected you, he was the most loyal friend on earth.
— DJ Shadow (@djshadow) February 6, 2017
