Risin' to the Top
"Risin' to the Top" is a song by Keni Burke. Released in 1982 from the Changes album, its chart position was 63. This song was sampled several times and is considered Burke's signature song. It was also released on RCA Records. The song was a defining hit for Burke, his best selling song, and showcases his work outside of Five Stairsteps. It was produced by the same artist. Along with the track "Hang Tight," the song was moderately successful, becoming a major hit for Burke, and it brought success to its parent album, being the album's only hit single. "Risin' To The Top" had a very electronic feel, with drums over guitar, strings and keyboards, and it became Burke's best known track.
Samples
This song was sampled numerous times. One of those times was in "Love No Limit" by Mary J. Blige. Another was "Keep Risin' to the Top" by Doug E. Fresh. Because the song was very successful, it was taken by many artists.| Sampling song | Sampling artist |
| "Pyramids" | Madlib |
| "Hip Shaker" | Twin Hype |
| "Rap Phenomenon" | The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Method Man and Redman |
| "Fat Rat" | Grand Puba |
| "Mirror Mirror" | Skyzoo & 9th Wonder |
| "Hey Nas" | Nas feat. Kelis and Claudette Ortiz |
| "Crosstown Beef" | Medina Green |
| "Take You There" | Pete Rock & CL Smooth |
| "Born 2 Live" | O.C. |
| "Straight From Da Ghetto" | Lost Boyz |
| "Love No Limit" | Mary J. Blige |
| "Keep Risin' to the Top" | Doug E. Fresh |
| "Around the Way Girl" | LL Cool J |
| "Paradise" | LL Cool J & Amerie |
| "All Night Long" | Mary Jane Girls |
| "There Will Never Be" | TCF Crew |
Track listing
- "Risin' To The Top" – 5:16
- "Risin' To The Top" – 5:56
- "Risin' To The Top" – 5:02
Chart performance
| Chart | Peak position |
| UK Singles Chart | 96 |
| Chart | Peak position |
| UK Singles Chart | 70 |