Did the "Call 911 now!" sample in Skrillex’s "First of the Year (Equinox)" come from a YouTube video?
Exploring the Origin of the “Call 911 now!” Sample in Skrillex’s “First of the Year (Equinox)”
The Viral YouTube Video and the Sample
Skrillex, the prominent American electronic music producer, incorporated a distinctive sample of a woman screaming “Call 911 now!” in his popular track “First of the Year (Equinox).” This intriguing sample has its origins in a viral YouTube video that gained significant attention in 2005. The video featured a distressed woman shouting the phrase in a highly emotive manner.
Unauthorized Usage and Controversy
It is important to note that Skrillex used the “Call 911 now!” sample without obtaining permission from the original author of the YouTube video. This unauthorized usage of the sample sparked controversy and raised concerns about potential copyright infringement. The original author’s vocal contribution, a crucial element of their creative work, was incorporated into Skrillex’s composition without proper clearance.
“First of the Year (Equinox)” Music Video
The music video for “First of the Year (Equinox)” was directed by Tony Truand and played a significant role in amplifying the impact of the “Call 911 now!” sample. The video presents a chilling narrative involving a kidnapper and a young girl possessing telekinetic powers. As the girl is pursued by the kidnapper, she unleashes her abilities and utters the phrase “Call 911 now!” to alert others of the imminent danger.
Critical Acclaim and Recognition
The inclusion of the “Call 911 now!” sample in the music video aligns with its thematic elements, enhancing the overall experience of the song. The combination of haunting visuals and the powerful vocal sample creates a sense of urgency and tension, complementing the intense dubstep style of Skrillex’s composition.
The music video for “First of the Year (Equinox)” received critical acclaim and achieved recognition within the industry. It was nominated for Best Short Form Music Video at the 54th Grammy Awards, highlighting the artistic merit and impact of Skrillex’s collaboration with director Tony Truand.
In conclusion, Skrillex’s “First of the Year (Equinox)” features a captivating sample of a woman screaming “Call 911 now!” derived from a viral YouTube video. The unauthorized usage of the sample without permission from the original author led to controversy surrounding potential copyright infringement. The integration of the sample in the music video further enhances the song’s thematic elements and adds to its overall impact. Skrillex’s collaboration with director Tony Truand resulted in a visually compelling music video that garnered critical acclaim and industry recognition.
Sources:
- Your EDM. (2013, October 13). Where Skrillex Got His “Call 911 Now” Sample. Retrieved from https://www.youredm.com/2013/10/13/skrillex-got-call-911-now-sample/
- Wikipedia. (n.d.). First of the Year (Equinox). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_of_the_Year_(Equinox)
- Skrillex Wiki. (n.d.). First Of The Year (Equinox) (Song). Retrieved from https://skrillex.fandom.com/wiki/First_Of_The_Year_(Equinox)_(Song)
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about the “Call 911 now!” Sample in Skrillex’s “First of the Year (Equinox)”
Where does the “Call 911 now!” sample in Skrillex’s “First of the Year (Equinox)” come from?
The sample originates from a viral YouTube video that gained popularity in 2005. The video features a distressed woman shouting the phrase “Call 911 now!” in an emotive manner.
Did Skrillex obtain permission to use the “Call 911 now!” sample in his song?
No, Skrillex used the sample without obtaining permission from the original author of the YouTube video. This unauthorized usage of the sample sparked controversy and raised concerns about copyright infringement.
How was the “Call 911 now!” sample incorporated into the music video for “First of the Year (Equinox)”?
The music video, directed by Tony Truand, depicts a storyline involving a kidnapper and a young girl with telekinetic powers. As the girl is pursued by the kidnapper, she unleashes her abilities and utters the phrase “Call 911 now!” to alert others of the danger. The inclusion of the sample in the music video aligns with its thematic elements, enhancing the overall impact of the song.
Was the music video for “First of the Year (Equinox)” recognized or awarded?
Yes, the music video received critical acclaim and was nominated for Best Short Form Music Video at the 54th Grammy Awards. The collaboration between Skrillex and director Tony Truand resulted in a visually compelling video that garnered recognition within the industry.
How did Skrillex manipulate the “Call 911 now!” sample in the song?
Skrillex employed various audio manipulation techniques, including pitch adjustment, reversal, speed alteration, vocoding, and rearrangement, to create a distinct and unrecognizable element within the composition.
What is the overall genre of Skrillex’s “First of the Year (Equinox)”?
“First of the Year (Equinox)” falls under the electronic music genre, specifically within the subgenre of dubstep. Skrillex is known for his contributions to the dubstep genre and his unique sound.
Was the usage of the “Call 911 now!” sample in “First of the Year (Equinox)” controversial?
Yes, the unauthorized usage of the sample without permission from the original author sparked controversy and raised questions about copyright infringement within the music industry.
Can the “Call 911 now!” sample be considered a significant element of the song?
Yes, the inclusion of the “Call 911 now!” sample adds a distinctive and memorable element to the composition. It contributes to the song’s intense and energetic atmosphere, enhancing its impact on the listener.