While the original version released to SoundCloud included Blake's vocals, his contribution was of the track.
Blake revealed that he only sent the material as a "collaborative idea" for a future project and did not want it used as a standalone sample. Drake - The Catch Up Feat. James Blake
Drake released the song on June 1, 2014, featuring a prominent sample of English singer James Blake . The James Blake Sample and Its Removal While the original version released to SoundCloud included
Although Blake later admitted he liked the track and "spat out his drink" upon learning how much money he turned down by not clearing the sample, he maintained it was a "matter of principle". Song Composition and Significance The James Blake Sample and Its Removal Although
Drake's team reportedly emailed Blake just one day before the song's release asking for clearance, which he refused.