What Song Is Versace on the Floor Sampled From?

If you’ve ever listened to Bruno Mars’ “Versace on the Floor,” you may have found yourself wondering where that infectious beat came from. Well, wonder no more! In this article, we’ll explore the origins of the sample used in “Versace on the Floor” and how it was transformed into the hit song we know and love today.

The Sample

The sample used in “Versace on the Floor” comes from a lesser-known track called “All I Need” by a group called The Gap Band. The song was released in 1982 and features a slow, sultry groove that’s perfect for setting the mood.

How Was It Used?

To turn this old-school track into a modern hit, Bruno Mars and his team had to get creative. They took the basic beat from “All I Need” and stripped it down, removing most of the instrumentation and focusing on just a few key elements.

The most noticeable change is in the tempo. “Versace on the Floor” is much slower than “All I Need,” which gives it a more seductive feel. They also added some new elements, like a piano melody that plays throughout the song and Mars’ smooth vocals.

Why Did They Choose This Sample?

According to an interview with co-writer James Fauntleroy, they chose to sample “All I Need” because it had a timeless quality that they felt would resonate with audiences today. The slow tempo and sultry groove were perfect for creating a modern R&B ballad with an old-school vibe.

The Legacy of The Gap Band

While The Gap Band may not be as well-known as some other R&B acts from their era (like Earth, Wind & Fire or Kool & The Gang), they were still an influential group that helped shape the sound of funk and soul in the 1980s. They had a string of hits throughout the decade, including “You Dropped a Bomb on Me” and “Outstanding.”

By sampling one of The Gap Band’s lesser-known tracks, Bruno Mars and his team have helped introduce a new generation to their music. It’s a testament to the enduring quality of their sound that a sample from over 30 years ago can still be turned into a hit song today.

Conclusion

So there you have it! The sample used in “Versace on the Floor” comes from The Gap Band’s “All I Need,” and was transformed into a modern R&B ballad through some creative editing and production. By using an old-school sample in a new way, Bruno Mars and his team have created a hit song that pays homage to the past while still feeling fresh and relevant today.