Sometimes, the instrumental is the true hero of a track, laying down a vibe so undeniable that it transcends genre preference. That’s exactly the case with the essential 90s/00s Hip-Hop cut, ‘Takin Ova’ produced by the Norwegian Hip-Hop pioneer, Tommy Tee.
Have a listen to the instrumental version of Takin’ Ova on YouTube.
While this track is a masterclass in collaboration, featuring an array of talented rappers across its different versions (from Scandinavian legends to US artists like Shabaam Sahdeeq and Mr. Eon), the real draw here is the beat itself.
The instrumental is pure, textbook boom-bap excellence:
- The Drumwork: Crisp, satisfying snares and punchy kicks drive a solid, head-nodding rhythm that is instantly transportable back to the golden age of Hip-Hop.
- The Atmosphere: Tommy Tee layers his sound with a distinct, often jazzy or soulful sample aesthetic, giving the track a rich, textured, and truly deep groove.
It’s the kind of production that serves as a perfect, dynamic canvas for the vocalists without ever getting lost in the background. It is solid, expertly constructed, and simply demands your attention.
If you’re primarily an electronic or house fan and you’re looking for the perfect bridge into classic Hip-Hop production, listen no further. ‘Takin Ova’ is a testament to the power of a quality beat, proving that a phenomenal instrumental can make any track a certified Audio Groover.
Crank the volume and experience the foundation of classic Hip-Hop production with Tommy Tee’s ‘Takin Ova’.