J Dilla
J Dilla is a boom-bap and jazz rap producer from Detroit, Michigan.
Detroit producer whose loose, off-kilter drums and soulful samples changed hip-hop production forever.
Who is J Dilla?
J Dilla (James Yancey) was a producer and rapper from Detroit, Michigan, and a member of Slum Village. He died in 2006, three days after the release of his album Donuts.
Known for
Production for The Pharcyde ("Runnin'", "Drop"), A Tribe Called Quest, Common, Erykah Badu and D'Angelo, as part of the Soulquarians collective. His instrumental album Donuts (2006), made largely in the hospital, is seen as a masterpiece.
Style
Drums that feel slightly "off" and human instead of perfectly on the grid, combined with warm soul and jazz samples. Intricate yet smooth, laid-back but always surprising.
Impact
Dilla is one of the most influential producers ever. His swing can be heard in the work of Madlib, Flying Lotus, Kaytranada and countless bedroom producers.
Influences
- Pete Rock
- Marvin Gaye
- Stevie Wonder
J Dilla: quick answers
What genre is J Dilla?
J Dilla’s music falls under Boom-Bap and Jazz Rap. J Dilla is part of Midwest hip-hop, with the most important work in the 1990s.
Where is J Dilla from?
J Dilla is from Detroit, Michigan.
What is J Dilla’s real name?
J Dilla’s real name is James Yancey.
When did J Dilla start?
J Dilla has been active since 1992.
Who influenced J Dilla?
J Dilla was influenced by Pete Rock.
Who did J Dilla influence?
J Dilla influenced Joey Bada$$, Kaytranada and The Alchemist.
Which artists are similar to J Dilla?
If you like J Dilla, listen to Gang Starr, Pete Rock and The Alchemist.
