Detroit producer and MC James Dewitt Yancey, better known as J Dilla, passed away a little more than two years ago due to a fight with a rare blood disease, but his music still lives on in his death. Dilla was one of the most talented and influential artists in hip hop history. Unfortunately, many may not know his name, but it’s a good bet that many have heard his work.
J Dilla began his career in the early 90’s making beats for big names in hip hop, such as Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Busta Rhymes, The Pharcyde, and even contributed production for Janet Jackson, Tupac, and Notorious B.I.G. In the mid-90’s, Dilla, (then known as Jay Dee), also showcased his knack for emceeing as part of the Detroit-based group Slum Village.
In 2000, Dilla left Slum Village and went solo, but continued to contribute production for some of hip hop’s major artists, most notably Common, Erykah Badu, and The Roots.
Although he has now passed away, his music is still alive. There have been a number of posthumous releases of Dilla’s work since his death. His album The Shining, featuring artists like Common, Busta Rhymes, Pharoahe Monch, and Black Thought of The Roots, was completed and released after his death.
Other similar releases include Jay Love Japan, a reissue of Ruff Draft, and Busta Rhymes’ recent mix tape Dillagence, in which Busta raps over a collection of previously unreleased Dilla instrumentals.
J Dilla was a master of his craft, known for his innovative choppy samples and drum rhythms. His collection of work is so extensive that it’s almost impossible to keep track of, and his dedication and love for his work was awe-inspiring. He performed from a wheelchair in one of his last concerts, and completed his instrumental album Donuts from a hospital bed, displaying a love for music unmatched by many other artists.
J Dilla’s work has been so influential and so important to the world of hip hop, and he is dearly missed. If you’ve never heard any of his work, it’s definitely not too late to check him out. You won’t be disappointed. And remember, when J Dilla tells you to “turn it up,” you better do it.