Chaka Khan Reflects on Kanye West’s Sample of “Through The Fire” After Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction

Chaka Khan, recently inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, took a moment to reflect on her illustrious career, personal experiences, and notably, her relationship with Kanye West. In a candid interview with Rolling Stone, the iconic singer discussed her initial grievances with Kanye West’s use of her track “Through The Fire” in his debut single “Through The Wire.” However, it appears that time has healed any lingering wounds.

The publication asked Chaka Khan if her annoyance with Kanye West stemmed from him not explicitly mentioning that her sampled voice would be sped up. She acknowledged this, stating, “Yeah. And you know, that was my fault, too, for feeling salty about that in any way. Because if I understood the rap game more completely, like I do now, then that wouldn’t have been a big deal to me. No, I’m done [having it bother me]. Please. I’m not hanging on to any silly grudges.”

 

Kanye West has faced his fair share of sampling challenges, and the article notes his current struggle in clearing a sample for his unreleased collaboration album with Ty Dolla $ign, Vultures. The song “Everybody” samples The Backstreet Boys, and as of the article’s writing, the publishers of the sampled record have not granted the rights.

In a twist, Kanye West is also extending apologies, notably in Hebrew, to the Jewish community for his past antisemitic remarks. The responses to his apology vary, with some forgiving and others remaining skeptical. Nonetheless, the gesture breaks the silence surrounding the controversial remarks.

As Chaka Khan embraces her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, the interview provides insight into the evolving dynamics between artists and the sampling culture in the music industry.