How Tory Lanez Turned a Classic ’90s R&B Hit Into His Breakthrough Song “Say It”

#NOLAZINE - Before Tory Lanez became a mainstream name in hip-hop and R&B, the Canadian artist spent years building his following through mixtapes, independent releases, and his ability to blend singing with rapping. However, everything changed in 2015 when he released his breakthrough single, “Say It.”

The record cleverly sampled the 1994 R&B classic “If You Love Me” by the female group Brownstone. The original song was a major hit during the golden era of '90s R&B, known for its powerful harmonies and unforgettable chorus.

Rather than simply recreating the record, Tory Lanez and producer Pop Wansel transformed its familiar sound into a modern R&B anthem. The song combined nostalgic '90s melodies with contemporary production, giving younger listeners something fresh while reminding older fans of the music they grew up loving.

Released in 2015, “Say It” quickly gained traction on radio and streaming platforms. The single eventually reached No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming Tory Lanez's first major crossover hit and helping introduce him to a much larger audience.

The success of “Say It” also helped build momentum for his 2016 debut studio album, I Told You, which debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200.

What made the record special was its ability to connect two generations of R&B listeners. By incorporating Brownstone's recognizable melody into his own sound, Tory Lanez demonstrated how sampling could introduce classic music to a new audience while creating an entirely different hit.

Nearly three decades after Brownstone's original release, “Say It” remains an example of how a timeless R&B record can help launch another artist's mainstream career.