Uncover the intricate process of music sample clearance as Algee Smith recounts the pivotal, last-minute intervention by legendary producer Rodney Jerkins that allowed his new single ‘Spiraling,’ featuring a classic ‘The Boy Is Mine’ sample, to be released.
The music industry is a complex tapestry of artistry and legalities, especially when it comes to sampling classic tracks. Actor and musician Algee Smith recently found himself navigating this intricate world when preparing to release his new song, “Spiraling.” The track features a sample of Brandy and Monica’s iconic 1998 hit “The Boy Is Mine,” and securing the necessary clearance proved to be a formidable challenge.
The Eleventh-Hour Dilemma for ‘Spiraling’
For months, Algee Smith and his co-writer Kameron Glasper had tirelessly attempted to clear the sample of “The Boy Is Mine” for “Spiraling.” The process was stalled, with multiple sources failing to yield the necessary permissions. With a project deadline looming just two weeks away, the situation became critical.
“We had been trying to get the record clear for a while, going through different sources and it just wasn’t happening for us,” Smith, 30, shared with People. “And maybe in the fourth quarter, the project had to be turned in [in] about two weeks, and we still hadn’t had it cleared.” This scenario highlights the often-unseen legal hurdles artists face, even when paying homage to classics.
Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins: The R&B Architect to the Rescue
In a twist of fate, the solution arrived in the form of none other than Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins. Jerkins, a legendary producer and a formidable musical force, co-wrote and co-produced the original 1998 track “The Boy Is Mine.” Recognizing his unique position and influence, Smith and Glasper sent “Spiraling” directly to him.
The impact was immediate. “It just happened so quickly after that,” Smith recalled, marveling at the swift resolution after months of stagnation. “I’m like, ‘Dude, we’ve been trying to get it done for three, four months.’ And just like that, it happened.” Jerkins’ intervention wasn’t just about clearing a sample; it was a testament to his continued power and respect within the industry, where his “Darkchild” touch has consistently put songs on the fast track to success.
Rodney Jerkins’ extensive career spans decades, marked by collaborations with an astounding array of music legends including Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga. His contributions to music have earned him multiple Grammy Awards and solidified his reputation as one of the most influential producers of his generation. His deep involvement in the creation of “The Boy Is Mine” made him the ultimate key to unlocking its sample for Smith’s new generation of R&B. Fans can delve deeper into his impressive catalog and impact on music by exploring his career highlights as documented by People magazine.
‘Spiraling’: A Vulnerable Tribute to Old-School R&B
With the sample cleared, “Spiraling” premiered with a “dope” video in September, showcasing Smith’s profound love for old-school R&B. The track is a highlight on his latest EP, Love Lost, which dropped in July.
Smith describes Love Lost as a “very autobiographical” collection of songs born from the aftermath of a broken relationship. For him, the creative process was a form of therapy, a way to confront his own accountability in the breakup.
“That was a part of the therapy for me doing this project. It was a part of the release that I needed,” he explained. “I went through a breakup that was my fault at the end of the day, and so it was a lot of me having to take accountability for that and deal with myself through the writing process, through the studio sessions, through the late-night thoughts and all of that.” This raw vulnerability is what Smith hopes will resonate deeply with his listeners.
Algee Smith: Bridging Acting and Music Dreams
Before his recent musical endeavors, Algee Smith established himself as a respected actor, known for his roles in popular shows like Euphoria and Kathryn Bigelow’s acclaimed film Detroit. His journey into entertainment, however, began much earlier with music.
His love for music was nurtured in the church, growing up surrounded by gospel. He started playing the drums at just two years old. At 16, his family moved from Atlanta to Los Angeles to support his dreams of stardom, a journey that later saw him return to L.A. solo with only $400 to his name, relying on friends and fast food. Through it all, his parents remained steadfast pillars of support.
Smith’s debut EP was released in 2017, and he continues to mature in his artistic vision, balancing his two passions. “I want to continue to do great films and also put out great music,” he articulated. “I want to be able to sell out a film, then also be able to sell out a music show, and just keep doing that for as long as I want to do it. That’s my dream. And so this is just a beginning step.”
The Enduring Legacy of ‘The Boy Is Mine’
The story of “Spiraling” is not just about Algee Smith’s persistence or Rodney Jerkins’ influence. It also underscores the timeless appeal and cultural significance of “The Boy Is Mine.” Released in 1998, the duet between Brandy and Monica became an instant classic, capturing the essence of late-90s R&B and sparking endless conversations about its narrative. Its inclusion in a new track nearly three decades later is a testament to its enduring impact and relevance across generations of music lovers.
This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of sample clearance highlights the deep respect artists like Algee Smith have for the legends who paved the way. With Rodney Jerkins’ timely intervention, “Spiraling” not only adds a new chapter to Smith’s evolving career but also ensures that the legacy of a beloved R&B anthem continues to resonate.
