A classic just got a bold new twist.
Sexyy Red has teamed up with Lil Yachty on a track that samples one of the most recognizable songs in pop history: Michael Jackson’s “Beat It.” And as soon as listeners realized what record was being flipped, reactions started pouring in.
“Beat It,” originally released in 1982, remains one of Jackson’s most iconic hits, known for its unforgettable guitar riff and crossover appeal. Reworking a song with that kind of legacy is never a small move.
This time, the sample anchors a completely different sound and energy. Instead of arena-rock intensity, the new version leans into contemporary rap production, giving the familiar melody a modern edge. For some fans, it’s an exciting reimagining. For others, touching a Michael Jackson classic is always going to spark debate.
Sampling legendary artists often walks a fine line between homage and risk. When it works, it introduces timeless music to a new generation. When it misses, fans are quick to say so.
According to Billboard, the collaboration between Sexyy Red and Lil Yachty has already started generating conversation online, with listeners weighing in on whether the flip does justice to the original.
Michael Jackson’s catalog continues to influence artists decades later. And every time one of his hits gets revisited, it reminds fans just how powerful those records still are.
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