I do both. Create melodies and sample. Hiphop originated from sampling. And I don't mean this 9th wonder type of sampling. I'm talking about taking the loops and throwing another drum loop under it. Then taking a piano riff from another records and having a new song for someone to rap over. Illmatic is the essence of hiphop. I love sampling. I also love creating my own music, sounds and melodies but that's my flavor. I work with some cats who are samples only and some who are all original. It's all about what you wanna do. Just do it good