Massive Attack — Safe From Harm
Album: Blue LinesAvg rating:
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Total ratings: 3588
Length: 5:13
Plays (last 30 days): 3
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Midnight rockers, city slickers
Gunmen and maniacs
All are featured on the freak show
And I can't do nothing 'bout that, no
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
Friends and enemies, they find us contagerous
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
Lucky dippers, crazy chancers
Seems to be moving fast
What happened to the niceties of my childhood days?
Well, I can't do nothing 'bout that, no
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
I was
I was looking back to see if you were
I was looking I was
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
Friends and enemies, they find us contagerous
And they spread into your system like a virus
Yes, the trouble is it kind of makes you anxious
I was
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
I was
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Gunmen and maniacs
All are featured on the freak show
And I can't do nothing 'bout that, no
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
Friends and enemies, they find us contagerous
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
Lucky dippers, crazy chancers
Seems to be moving fast
What happened to the niceties of my childhood days?
Well, I can't do nothing 'bout that, no
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
I was
I was looking back to see if you were
I was looking I was
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Telling us what is infectious and dangerous
Friends and enemies, they find us contagerous
And they spread into your system like a virus
Yes, the trouble is it kind of makes you anxious
I was
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
I was
I was looking back to see
If you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
But if you hurt what's mine
I'll sure as hell retaliate
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
You can free the world, you can free my mind
Just as long as my baby's safe from harm tonight
Comments (334)add comment
at 3:50 sound like Jemaine Clement wrapping
Pound33 wrote:
That album is one of my all-time favorites. It should be mentioned that the great Tommy Bolin played guitar on it, demonstrating that he was also a very good jazz guitarist.
That being said, I really like this song, sampling haters notwithstanding.
Tommy Bolin died in 1976. Massive Attacks first album came out in 1991. As said, its sampling from another album. So he didn't really play on it.
That album is one of my all-time favorites. It should be mentioned that the great Tommy Bolin played guitar on it, demonstrating that he was also a very good jazz guitarist.
That being said, I really like this song, sampling haters notwithstanding.
Tommy Bolin died in 1976. Massive Attacks first album came out in 1991. As said, its sampling from another album. So he didn't really play on it.
joejennings wrote:
That album is one of my all-time favorites. It should be mentioned that the great Tommy Bolin played guitar on it, demonstrating that he was also a very good jazz guitarist.
That being said, I really like this song, sampling haters notwithstanding.
The music in this song is " Spectrum" from s 1973 Billy Cobham album! 
That album is one of my all-time favorites. It should be mentioned that the great Tommy Bolin played guitar on it, demonstrating that he was also a very good jazz guitarist.
That being said, I really like this song, sampling haters notwithstanding.
Very cool tune! Love the Dr Feelgood "she was looking back at me to see if I was looking back at her" Let's have some Dr Feelgood on RP!!!
MASTERPIECE!
siqbal wrote:
Try this - Dr Feelgood - Looking Back
"I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me to see me looking back at you."
Say that 10x fast!
Try this - Dr Feelgood - Looking Back
talk abut a groove beat, beating, while a smooth vocal, vocals...
Daveteauk wrote:
Wasn't the album named Crosswinds?
"Spectrum"
Wasn't the album named Crosswinds?
"Spectrum"
zenhead wrote:
Wasn't the album named Crosswinds?
Big huge sample of " Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from the classic album of the same name.
Wasn't the album named Crosswinds?
siqbal wrote:
Sounds like something Dave Mason would say.....
"I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me to see me looking back at you."
Say that 10x fast!
Sounds like something Dave Mason would say.....
"I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me to see me looking back at you."
Say that 10x fast!
Say that 10x fast!
Years ago when we had a pinning ceremony for our RN graduating class, I put together the music and dedicated songs to each RN. This was my choice for a single mother/soldier who was so focused. Here's to everyone working hard to get it done - however you can!
PS WTF the rap is excellent backing
PS WTF the rap is excellent backing
lily34 wrote:
100% Agree
might be my fav M. A. song. love it.
100% Agree
I don't care where it came from or how it was created, it sounds great and grooves.
might be my fav M. A. song. love it.
Esta es la única forma de un remix que realmente respeto. Long Live Jeff ,Long Live Billy, and Jan!!
THE BEST!!!!!
I see a lot of people don't like the rap parts (I like it). So next time it comes on concentrate on the drums and bass - I think that will get you through.
thisbody wrote:
I Agree! I tried to like this. PLEASE PLAY THE ORIGINAL VERSION!
I still prefer the original. Without the rap overdubs and all.. by eons.
And it (the original) is not being played here. WTF?
I Agree! I tried to like this. PLEASE PLAY THE ORIGINAL VERSION!
I still prefer the original. Without the rap overdubs and all.. by eons.
And it (the original) is not being played here. WTF?
And it (the original) is not being played here. WTF?
joko63808 wrote:
It certainly ~is~ a bass line. This use of it is robbery.
This. Is. A. Bass. Line.
It certainly ~is~ a bass line. This use of it is robbery.
This. Is. A. Bass. Line.
The music in this song is " Spectrum" from s 1973 Billy Cobham album!
William wrote:
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Wish that were true. But artist are acclimated to "rip-offs". They are not imposters. They are students. Now sit down and you may not go to the bathroom until the end of class.
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Wish that were true. But artist are acclimated to "rip-offs". They are not imposters. They are students. Now sit down and you may not go to the bathroom until the end of class.
William wrote:
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Yo lo veo como un cover. I see it as a cover nothing else. Espero tambien que las regalías se repartan con justicia. Jeff y Billy son dioses. Y Spectrum su templo
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Yo lo veo como un cover. I see it as a cover nothing else. Espero tambien que las regalías se repartan con justicia. Jeff y Billy son dioses. Y Spectrum su templo
I'd even prefer the 8minute "perfecto mix" which I happen to own on a 12inch vinyl.
Very cool. I can see why BC approved.
Bass player is burning up some energy here. Motoring!
thewiseking wrote:
Dude shut the fuck up already... As many have already commented - BC was totally cool with this. You just make yourself a fool here.
free BILLY COBHAM! Delete the syrupy vocal overdub and cornball dated rap
Dude shut the fuck up already... As many have already commented - BC was totally cool with this. You just make yourself a fool here.
OUTSTANDING!
this adds nothing to Billy Cobham's bad bad jam. Please play that instead
The aggressive selfish defensiveness of this song has finally got too much for me.
Big huge sample of " Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from the classic album of the same name.
Good Tune! I never heard of them before. Thank You RP!
7 -> 8
Most Excellent indeed
Most Excellent indeed
at least give the credit and song title to Billy Cobham, or it seems like blatant deception
BillG wrote:
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Vanilla Ice Ripped off Queen and Bowie, and they won in court "You didn't ask". It ended up costing him far more than if he'd just asked.
I've seen a song that lists Metalica and Mozart as writers, though I don't think Wolfgang is getting his cut from the proceeds.
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
Vanilla Ice Ripped off Queen and Bowie, and they won in court "You didn't ask". It ended up costing him far more than if he'd just asked.
I've seen a song that lists Metalica and Mozart as writers, though I don't think Wolfgang is getting his cut from the proceeds.
Shara Nelson's vocals are amazing...
I’ve been a prog music fan forever. Couldn’t stand dance type music, but damn I really dig Massive Attack. Thanks for broadening my horizons Bill & Rebecca. This is why I send a contribution monthly. Worth every penny.
Great punching rhythm, complementary vocals, a tweak of melody, over a little caressing bass & lead duel, and again the unforced smooth voices of pleasure. .... yep ... you had me a hello ...
"Contagerous"? I know it's only pop music but standards, people. Standards.
Some nice drum work in there. and I like the rest of it too, esp. the whole 'looking' thing. The words sound cool and hey, haven't we all been there?
milleronic wrote:
Love Massive Attack, but this song - ugh.
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at youRidiculous
Did you forget junior high school?I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at youRidiculous
thewiseking wrote:
This is some of the better "lounge crap" available, primarily due to Cobham's rhythm genius. Not bad but would really like to hear Stratus, Cobham or Beck's version which is also awesome.....
awww, thought we were gonna hear some Billy Cobham, then got hit with this lounge crap
This is some of the better "lounge crap" available, primarily due to Cobham's rhythm genius. Not bad but would really like to hear Stratus, Cobham or Beck's version which is also awesome.....
your argument can be summed up as "Old Man shakes fist at cloud!"
First off, it is CLEARLY NOT Billy Cobham's SONG, it is a sample of one line of Cobham's song. This is consequently slowed down, looped, with new synth accents to create a NEW, ORIGINAL song. Cobham didn't have a problem with it, as it not only put money in his pocket, but drove people to discover the original. Don't have to believe me, listen to him: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p048n9qp
impediguy wrote:
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
First off, it is CLEARLY NOT Billy Cobham's SONG, it is a sample of one line of Cobham's song. This is consequently slowed down, looped, with new synth accents to create a NEW, ORIGINAL song. Cobham didn't have a problem with it, as it not only put money in his pocket, but drove people to discover the original. Don't have to believe me, listen to him: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p048n9qp
impediguy wrote:
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
masterclass!
Massive Attack hat in den 90ern mit die beste Musik gemacht!
Ich liebe gerade dieses Stück!
milleronic wrote:
I like it!
Who's fooling who?
Love Massive Attack, but this song - ugh.
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
Ridiculous
I like it!
Who's fooling who?
I have just seen them at the Eden Sessions, Cornwall, England and they were pure class songs really stand the test of time. Ne of the best concerts I have been too, great musicians, great setting, great evening. Support acts of Young Fathers and Azekel were also worth seeing.
Cool. all built on samples from Billy Cobham's Stratus. Everything old is new again, eh?
Crank it up!!!
free BILLY COBHAM! Delete the syrupy vocal overdub and cornball dated rap
Love this.
When you have some time - check out Jeff Beck - Stratus - live at Ronnie Scott's session.
Oooooohhhh. Tasty.
When you have some time - check out Jeff Beck - Stratus - live at Ronnie Scott's session.
Oooooohhhh. Tasty.
With this record , Massive Attack creates a new style of music for me. A alltime classic record!
Love Massive Attack, but this song - ugh.
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
I was looking back to see if you were looking back at me
To see me looking back at you
Ridiculous
I love Massive Attack, but "contagerous" always gets me 
yes indeed..The perfecto remix smokes 
coloradojohn wrote:
coloradojohn wrote:Certainly one of the most trend-setting phenomena to come along in a very long time - and still tons of fun to hear with a good buzz on!
this song is good, but Oh my GOD the original by Billy Cobham is LUSCIOUS : )
impediguy wrote:
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
I know what you mean; I too prefer Cobham's original tune to this one. It was just a matter of semantics.
Cheers.
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
I know what you mean; I too prefer Cobham's original tune to this one. It was just a matter of semantics.
Cheers.
Proclivities wrote:
This song is an "original work" by its literal definition, mainly because it is not "minus the voice" (vocals and lyrics). They technically did "improve" upon it by adding to his recording.
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
This song is an "original work" by its literal definition, mainly because it is not "minus the voice" (vocals and lyrics). They technically did "improve" upon it by adding to his recording.
Correction. Billy Cobham's Stratus was an original work "by its literal definition". The voice over and synths do not improve upon Cobham's work because their articulation and rhythms do not even match those of Stratus. So the only thing you can technically or literally say about this "song" is that they "added" an overdub to Cobham's recording. Whether that is an improvement or not is a matter of opinion, and it certainly is not mine. Moreover, Massive Attack's work cannot be original when it is founded upon Stratus. IMHO, it is flightless on it's own.
Quite likable.
Sorry people, arguing about how many angels can dance on the head of a pin is not my forte.
Sorry people, arguing about how many angels can dance on the head of a pin is not my forte.
impediguy wrote:
You assume that this song was an original work, which it is not.
Minus the voice, it is indistinguishable from Billy Cobham's song Stratus. Massive Attack's proceeds then should have gone solely to Cobham since they did not improve upon Cobham's song: the sole signature and quality of the song is Cobham's composition and performance. IMHO, Massive Attack debased Stratus.
BTW, I am a professional musical composer and performer who was once enrolled in a graduate program in computer music. That being said, I can assure you that there is no originality or artistry in Massive Attack's work.
This song is an "original work" by its literal definition, mainly because it is not "minus the voice" (vocals and lyrics). They technically did "improve" upon it by adding to his recording.
You assume that this song was an original work, which it is not.
Minus the voice, it is indistinguishable from Billy Cobham's song Stratus. Massive Attack's proceeds then should have gone solely to Cobham since they did not improve upon Cobham's song: the sole signature and quality of the song is Cobham's composition and performance. IMHO, Massive Attack debased Stratus.
BTW, I am a professional musical composer and performer who was once enrolled in a graduate program in computer music. That being said, I can assure you that there is no originality or artistry in Massive Attack's work.
This song is an "original work" by its literal definition, mainly because it is not "minus the voice" (vocals and lyrics). They technically did "improve" upon it by adding to his recording.
It's bester to play the original from Billy Cobham. It is great.
DaidyBoy wrote:
The song Stratus occupies a full side of a vinyl LP. The background of Massive Attacks' vocal tracks is an exact replica of a very small portion of Billy Cobham's original recording, guitar riffs and all (I think it was Abercombe who played them). The vast majority of the 22+/- minute recording has a simple DNA resemblance to the portion that Massive Attack appropriated. Other parts, such as the intro, are a complete departure and bear no resemblance at all to the core motif.
I've just listened to Stratus on YouTube and, as untrained and incapable musician, I can detect similar DNA but see different animals entirely. I thought the Cobham thing was superb, though.
The song Stratus occupies a full side of a vinyl LP. The background of Massive Attacks' vocal tracks is an exact replica of a very small portion of Billy Cobham's original recording, guitar riffs and all (I think it was Abercombe who played them). The vast majority of the 22+/- minute recording has a simple DNA resemblance to the portion that Massive Attack appropriated. Other parts, such as the intro, are a complete departure and bear no resemblance at all to the core motif.
I've just listened to Stratus on YouTube and, as untrained and incapable musician, I can detect similar DNA but see different animals entirely. I thought the Cobham thing was superb, though.
justin4kick wrote:
The song is still as excellent as it was then maybe it's you that is getting old?
I assume you mean that it has stood the test of time since 1991 since Billy Cobham wrote Stratus, the basis of Massive Attack's vocal track? The thing about "being old" is that we seniors remember the original work when it was released in the heyday of the true artist.
The song is still as excellent as it was then maybe it's you that is getting old?
I assume you mean that it has stood the test of time since 1991 since Billy Cobham wrote Stratus, the basis of Massive Attack's vocal track? The thing about "being old" is that we seniors remember the original work when it was released in the heyday of the true artist.
ch83575 wrote:
The song is still as excellent as it was then maybe it's you that is getting old?
This has not stood the test of time.
The song is still as excellent as it was then maybe it's you that is getting old?
Seeing them live again after 10 years away they were still sensational. We need to hear more like this please RP
Certainly one of the most trend-setting phenomena to come along in a very long time - and still tons of fun to hear with a good buzz on!
Great song! 
This has not stood the test of time.
This track is one of their weakest. Not a fan.
*Blank stare*
whomhow wrote:
What's this song got to do with Massive Attack?
Let's leave Cobham's theme along - Massive Attack by themselves are great! BTW they've just released new EP - it's fine as usual.
What's this song got to do with Massive Attack?
Let's leave Cobham's theme along - Massive Attack by themselves are great! BTW they've just released new EP - it's fine as usual.
Future
A fire is born.
Tell me for a fortune.
Holds a dangerous?
A fire is born.
Tell me for a fortune.
Holds a dangerous?
Contaigerous? is that a word? I loved Tricky and most of his other projects in the 90s during the Bristol Trip Hop scene but my opinion of him fell sharply when in an interview he said that he regretted agreeing to do "The Fifth Element" because it was a shitty kids movie. I dont think its a kids movie and not particularly shitty.
This is not great Massive Attack
This is however epic Billy Cobham.
This fusion stuff from the 70s is mostly forgotten. Too bad, it was our urban stoner soundtrack "back in the daze"
This is however epic Billy Cobham.
This fusion stuff from the 70s is mostly forgotten. Too bad, it was our urban stoner soundtrack "back in the daze"
BillG wrote:
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
You assume that this song was an original work, which it is not.
Minus the voice, it is indistinguishable from Billy Cobham's song Stratus. Massive Attack's proceeds then should have gone solely to Cobham since they did not improve upon Cobham's song: the sole signature and quality of the song is Cobham's composition and performance. IMHO, Massive Attack debased Stratus.
BTW, I am a professional musical composer and performer who was once enrolled in a graduate program in computer music. That being said, I can assure you that there is no originality or artistry in Massive Attack's work.
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
You assume that this song was an original work, which it is not.
Minus the voice, it is indistinguishable from Billy Cobham's song Stratus. Massive Attack's proceeds then should have gone solely to Cobham since they did not improve upon Cobham's song: the sole signature and quality of the song is Cobham's composition and performance. IMHO, Massive Attack debased Stratus.
BTW, I am a professional musical composer and performer who was once enrolled in a graduate program in computer music. That being said, I can assure you that there is no originality or artistry in Massive Attack's work.
Lesser artists borrow; great artists steal.
Igor Stravinsky, a light weight.
Igor Stravinsky, a light weight.
impediguy wrote:
The name of the tune that Jeff Beck played live at Ronnie Scontt's in 2007 that contained the so called "ripped-off" bass line was Stratus. In other words, Jeff Beck was performing Billy Cobham's song Stratus, which was released in 1973 on the album Spectrum.
However, "The bass, guitar, and drums (on the song Safe From Harm) are sampled from the song "Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from his album Specturm." So Massive Attack unabashedly "ripped-off" all the instrumentals, including solos, from Billy Cobham. In fact, Massive Attacked added so very little to Cobham's Stratus, that it's still his song. Therefore, the credit and good ratings for this song, in my opinion, belong entirely to Billy Cobham.
So Jeff Beck is innocent, acquitted and shall be praised for playing a tribute to Cobham, while Massive Attack shall be sent to the gallows for receiving recognition for and turning a profit on unabashedly ripping-off Cobham on their album Blue Lines, which by the way, was released in 1991.
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
The name of the tune that Jeff Beck played live at Ronnie Scontt's in 2007 that contained the so called "ripped-off" bass line was Stratus. In other words, Jeff Beck was performing Billy Cobham's song Stratus, which was released in 1973 on the album Spectrum.
However, "The bass, guitar, and drums (on the song Safe From Harm) are sampled from the song "Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from his album Specturm." So Massive Attack unabashedly "ripped-off" all the instrumentals, including solos, from Billy Cobham. In fact, Massive Attacked added so very little to Cobham's Stratus, that it's still his song. Therefore, the credit and good ratings for this song, in my opinion, belong entirely to Billy Cobham.
So Jeff Beck is innocent, acquitted and shall be praised for playing a tribute to Cobham, while Massive Attack shall be sent to the gallows for receiving recognition for and turning a profit on unabashedly ripping-off Cobham on their album Blue Lines, which by the way, was released in 1991.
Part of the deal with sampling previous recordings (a totally legitimate component of electronic music creation IMHO) is the payment of royalties to the composer & performer of the original recording and — often — including credits as well. To me that fails the definition of "ripping-off".
dragon1952 wrote:
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
The name of the tune that Jeff Beck played live at Ronnie Scontt's in 2007 that contained the so called "ripped-off" bass line was Stratus. In other words, Jeff Beck was performing Billy Cobham's song Stratus, which was released in 1973 on the album Spectrum.
However, "The bass, guitar, and drums (on the song Safe From Harm) are sampled from the song "Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from his album Specturm." So Massive Attack unabashedly "ripped-off" all the instrumentals, including solos, from Billy Cobham. In fact, Massive Attacked added so very little to Cobham's Stratus, that it's still his song. Therefore, the credit and good ratings for this song, in my opinion, belong entirely to Billy Cobham.
So Jeff Beck is innocent, acquitted and shall be praised for playing a tribute to Cobham, while Massive Attack shall be sent to the gallows for receiving recognition for and turning a profit on unabashedly ripping-off Cobham on their album Blue Lines, which by the way, was released in 1991.
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
The name of the tune that Jeff Beck played live at Ronnie Scontt's in 2007 that contained the so called "ripped-off" bass line was Stratus. In other words, Jeff Beck was performing Billy Cobham's song Stratus, which was released in 1973 on the album Spectrum.
However, "The bass, guitar, and drums (on the song Safe From Harm) are sampled from the song "Stratus" by Billy Cobham, from his album Specturm." So Massive Attack unabashedly "ripped-off" all the instrumentals, including solos, from Billy Cobham. In fact, Massive Attacked added so very little to Cobham's Stratus, that it's still his song. Therefore, the credit and good ratings for this song, in my opinion, belong entirely to Billy Cobham.
So Jeff Beck is innocent, acquitted and shall be praised for playing a tribute to Cobham, while Massive Attack shall be sent to the gallows for receiving recognition for and turning a profit on unabashedly ripping-off Cobham on their album Blue Lines, which by the way, was released in 1991.
All I hear is Billy Cobham, overlaid with lame lyrics and song. In other words, everything Massive Attack added to Cobham's Stratus sucks.
Love Massive. I remember some really chilled out evenings, helped along by this band. Thanks for that, it was great.
Great song, great band.
So many solid songs that grab you with the music and that beautiful strong and soulful voice keeps you listening. yes. Since I heard Mezzanine I'm a big Masauce Attack fan!
more please 😃
more please 😃
I tried freeing worlds and minds before, but it turned out worlds and minds really like to be stuck in a gravity field or a skull.
dragon1952 wrote:
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
Ripoff ... possibly; I have not watched the concert for a while.
Do note that the concert was in 2007 and the Massive "Blue lines" album was released in 1991.
Schu wrote:
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
Love the bass line.
Jeff Beck song bass line ripoff big time. Can't think of the tune but watch the Jeff Beck Live at Ronnie Scott's DVD and you'll hear it. with Tal Wilkenfeld playing the same bass line.
sirtezza wrote:
it's a good tune...you have issues with change, I think
OK but if you take away Billy and his mates there is very little left. like hanging a wet sock in front of the Mona Lisa and taking a selfie.....Proclivities wrote:
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
it's a good tune...you have issues with change, I think
Would be nice to hear 'Looking Back' (from which the rappy bit in 'Safe From Harm' is taken, i believe). I'm familiar with the Dr. Feelgood version of 'Looking Back' but i dunno if they wrote it or not.
Cheers
PS. the Dr. Feelgood version of 'Looking Back' is on the 'B'-Side of the 'Baby Jane' Single. One of the few 12" singles i bought back in the night (LOL)
Thats a Dr Feelgood joke by the way :-)
Cheers
PS. the Dr. Feelgood version of 'Looking Back' is on the 'B'-Side of the 'Baby Jane' Single. One of the few 12" singles i bought back in the night (LOL)
Thats a Dr Feelgood joke by the way :-)
You should also play original track from Billy Cobham's album (great drummer): Spectrum. A bit more jazz rock/fusion would be highly appreciated!!
Thanks to RP anyway to play so many nice and great music!
Thanks to RP anyway to play so many nice and great music!
(dragging of images into post editor is not allowed)
Nice piece I first heard on the soundtrack to The Insider.
Yeah wow! Thank you RP yet again. 
Wow...
Dark, mysterious and mesmerising. 8
Peter_Bradshaw wrote:
Has to be a BIG fat 10 for Bristol's finest. Godlike song from a Godlike album
Regards from Bristol. By the way, Shara Nelson's solo album was pretty good in its day, too.
Has to be a BIG fat 10 for Bristol's finest. Godlike song from a Godlike albumRegards from Bristol. By the way, Shara Nelson's solo album was pretty good in its day, too.
Proclivities wrote:
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
Thank you. A mind is like a parachute. It only works when it's open.
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
Thank you. A mind is like a parachute. It only works when it's open.
Always bummed when I realize this isn't Billy Cobham.
timbetty wrote:
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
Not only the baseline (bass line) is from Billy Cobhams Stratus, the synthesizer line is ripped as well.
It's called "sampling". On the album, Billy Cobham is credited as one of the composers of this tune - so there is no "stealing" or "ripping" involved.
10
played loudly on an audiophile system babyachilles wrote:This song blew me away when I first heard it (surprisingly only a few years ago), and it still blows me away every time I hear it. Just an awesome jam.
Love the bass line.
This song blew me away when I first heard it (surprisingly only a few years ago), and it still blows me away every time I hear it. Just an awesome jam.
dtown40 wrote:
Than....then was wrong, just saying.
IMO.... only thing worse then this music, would be having a root canal. YUK!
Than....then was wrong, just saying.
10 - end of discussion!
dtown40 wrote:
What if your dentist was playing this over his Muzak system DURING said root canal?
<Mind Blown>
IMO.... only thing worse then this music, would be having a root canal. YUK!
What if your dentist was playing this over his Muzak system DURING said root canal?
<Mind Blown>
Has to be a BIG fat 10 for Bristol's finest. Godlike song from a Godlike albumafter seeing the comments about cobham, I listened to hip pockets from '76 and I swear he was channeling Zappa. So it all goes round.
IMO.... only thing worse then this music, would be having a root canal. YUK!
Wonderful. Only on RP
Great song. Better album. Tricky's work on here is just fabulous.
timbetty wrote:
Jeff Beck did Stratus on the Live at Ronnie Scott's vid with female bass prodigy Tal Wilkenfeld playing that bass line. Awesome bass line, awesome vid and awesome bassist! (not too mention a complete ripoff on this particular song)
Not only the baseline is from Billy Cobhams Stratus, the synthesizer line is ripped as well.
Jeff Beck did Stratus on the Live at Ronnie Scott's vid with female bass prodigy Tal Wilkenfeld playing that bass line. Awesome bass line, awesome vid and awesome bassist! (not too mention a complete ripoff on this particular song)
timbetty wrote:
I saw these guys interviewed once, and they were the most pretentious pricks you could possibly imagine. Not surprised that they're stealing their music.
Not only the bass line is from Billy Cobham's Stratus, the synthesizer line is ripped as well.
I saw these guys interviewed once, and they were the most pretentious pricks you could possibly imagine. Not surprised that they're stealing their music.
timbetty wrote:
And the "looking back to see if...." is lifted straight from Popa Chubby.
Not only the baseline is from Billy Cobhams Stratus, the synthesizer line is ripped as well.
And the "looking back to see if...." is lifted straight from Popa Chubby.
Not only the baseline is from Billy Cobhams Stratus, the synthesizer line is ripped as well.
Kchambers wrote:
and a little part lifted from an old John Mayall song-Looking back to see if you were looking back, etc
At least part of this song seems to have been 'lifted' in totality from Billy Cobham's Stratus. What's with that. . . . .
and a little part lifted from an old John Mayall song-Looking back to see if you were looking back, etc
The bass line resembles Sade, no ordinary love
Tommy Bolin died in 1976. Massive Attacks first album came out in 1991. As said, its sampling from another album. So he didn't really play on it.
Um, re-read the post. Saying that Tommy played on the Billy Cobham 1973 album and not that he played with Massive Attack.