MMW: J Dilla

Friday, February 14th, 2014 // Blogs,MMW

J Dilla was a record producer who emerged from the mid-90’s underground hip-hop scene in Detroit, Michigan. He was one of the most influential hip-hop artists, working for popular acts such as Common, Busta Rhymes, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, and Erykah Badu. In addition to being a producer, he was a member of the Slum Village.

As his popularity started to improve in the early 2000s after the release of his first LP, Welcome 2 Detroit, J Dilla was diagnosed with a fatal blood disease. While he was dealing with his illness, he recorded his second LP, Donuts, which was received with critical acclaim. Unfortunately, he passed away three days after the release. J Dilla’s influence continues to exist, with modern day musicians such as Kendrick Lamar, Flying Lotus, and Jay Electronica pay tribute to his talent.