The music producers of the world are truly the unsung heroes of the art. Any artist or incredibly attune music fan can be captivated by a sound in their environment. However, the people behind the beats might hear a sound and transform it into something completely unimaginable. In appreciation of each producer’s genius and creativity, we compiled a list of beat tapes inspired by iconic music figures. Each beat is a testament to how music producers blended these artists style with their own to create a new work of art.

1. Aretha: The Beat Tape

Various producers worked to create this artistic collection of beats inspired by Aretha Franklin’s music and interviews. Listen to the complete collection featuring beats from Moteleola, Dr. Khil and more.

2. A Tribute To Pete Rock

This beat tape was so good it was released on vinyl. Dyl Thomas channel his inner kid. He used the sounds he remembered listening to in ’90s hip-hop and decided to do a tribute beat tape to one of his personal icons, Pete Rock. The Wax Museum released the project on wax after being blown away by Thomas’ artistry. Listen to what made this project so special.

3. Radu: A Tribute To Badu

Another compilation project, Radu features producers from all over the world. The beats were curated by uPprhand and are almost more relaxing than the queen’s original music. It’s unique enough to feel new, but you can still sing along. Listen and see for yourself.

4. Pragmatic Theory Presents Curtis: The Beat Tape

Known for their quality sound, Pragmatic Theory brought together 27 producers to create a soulful work inspired by Curtis Mayfield. Play this now or save it for your next ’70s party.

5. 9th Wonder Presents: Farewell to the Soul Man – A Tribute to Bobby Womack

If you want to hear more sounds inspired by “grown folks music,” this 11-track beat tape features 9th Wonder’s clever use of Bobby Womack samples. You’ll be torn between bobbing your head and shaking your hips when you hear this edgy spin on the traditionally soulful beat tape.

6. The Ghostface Beat Tape

The Beat Tape Project often connects producers across the DMV area for experiments. The Ghostface Beat Tape is inspired by the mashup of greasy talk and knowledge you can expect from Wu-Tang Clan member Ghostface Killa. Although it might have come from the DMV, this tape will definitely have you thinking you’re back in Shaolin.

7. Beats In The Key of C – A Tribute To Pimp C

UGK’s Pimp C had a voice and persona so big that he could never be forgotten. South Carolina producer MIDI Marc uses Pimp C’s voice and beat selection to inspire this very southern, very trill beat tape. If you appreciate the leaders of Southern rap, you should definitely vibe out to this beat tape.

8. Mad Flips

Beat Gates shows tribute to one of his favorite producers — Madlib — with this EP, Mad Flips. This beat tape is particularly unique because Gates took samples used in Madlib beats and used this to create completely different sounds. Any fan of hip-hop excellence will appreciate the jazzy sound and creative effort of this tape.

9. A Tribute to Issac Hayes

Ready for more ’70s soul? The production duo Fratello Beatz went all out with intricate use of samples and loops for the beat tape, A Tribute to Issac Hayes. The intricate use of loops and samples is sure to get you up and moving. You must listen to this project. Thank us later.

10. Joe Jackson Kids

Teck Zilla definitely takes home the award for the most intriguing mixtape title. The Nigerian producer uses Jackson 5 samples to create beats that are as different as the Jackson clan themselves. This is the perfect example of how a concept-driven beat tape can have varied sounds and feels. If you’re in the mood to dance, check out Joe Jackson Kids.

With so many talented producers toiling over samples and sounds day and night, this is certainly not an exhaustive list of tribute beat tapes. Is there any producer or upcoming beat tape project we should be on the lookout for? Comment below!

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