Taking the DNA from the past, and sprinkling it into the present is a winning formula across creative genres. It’s not more pronounced than in the act of sampling. The entire art form is based on this age-old technique. And when it comes to digging in the crates, DJ Premier is one of the greatest to step behind a mixing board. He breaks down the inspiration behind three of his classics in the latest episode of NPR’s The Formula. Check the technique above.