Sample Saturday: MAVI - DENISE MURRELL

Welcome back to Sample Saturday, where we discuss samples used in some of your favorite songs. This week we will be talking about the sample used in Mavi’s song “Denise Murrell” from his 2025 album, “The Pilot.” 

In “Denise Murrell,” Mavi talks about his humble beginnings as an artist. From writing essays to other students to living with his mom after making his first million dollars, Mavi recounts his steps on the way to stardom. 

The sample, “Rain Again” by Bobbi Humphrey from the 1974 album “Satin Doll,” was known for combining funk, soul, and jazz. The song rose to popularity in the 70s.

Producer Sango took the instrumental components from the sample like the flute, drums, bass guitar, and trumpets as a base. Speeding up the cadence, while maintaining and taking the notes up an octave, creates a new melody that makes Mavi slide like butter on the beat.