Words by Jesse H.

I don’t know the reason, but nearly every Hip-Hop track I’ve heard that utilizes the flute is phenomenal. It’s an interesting strand, but it makes sense. While it certainly isn’t the manliest of instruments, hearing a flute on the track says something about the producer; that they have searched for creative samples which expand their musical palette beyond the standard drum kit/bass/synth combo. Here’s five flute-flecked Hip-Hop highlights:

Nas- “Nas Is Like” (Prod. by DJ Premier) — Obviously, a stone cold Five Cig flute standard. The flute brings to mind an image of gliding across the top of a jungle canopy, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon-style. Near the top of the laundry list of Premier’s greatest beats.

Ghostface Killer – “The Forest” (Prod. by The Alchemist) — The most dynamic flute sample on this list, the fluttering whistle of the flutes is a perfect contrast to the imposing low brass part. Immaculately titled, Ghost provides appropriately left field imagery for this walk through the woodland.

Cee-Lo- “Big Ole Words (Damn)” — Proof that a flute on a Hip-Hop track doesn’t have to be high pitched. The low-key, nearly whispered flute part provides a suitable backdrop for Cee-Lo to spazz.

Hi-Tek Feat. Nas, J Dilla, Common, Busta Rhymes and Marsha Ambrosius – “Music For Life” — Like “Big Ole Words,” this track stands out because the flute is not merely a nice touch to fill out a beat, but the basis of the melody itself. It’s a nostalgic and reflective loop, that allows the multitude of guests to emote properly.

Diamond D – “Sally Got A One-Track Mind” (Prod. by Diamond D) — This is potentially my favorite use of flutes in Hip-Hop ever. The way the hushed flute comes in so softly and lazily trails down the scale makes for a remarkable addition to that moseying bassline.

But if those five tracks can’t convince you that the flute can be straight Hip-Hop, maybe this guy can