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Happy Birthday, J Dilla

Thirty-eight years ago today, James Yancey, better known as super producer J Dilla, was born. 5 years and 362 days ago, he died of apparent cardiac arrest, just three days after the release of _Donuts_ on his 32nd birthday. Dilla made his name as an...

Thirty-eight years ago today, James Yancey, better known as super producer J Dilla, was born. 5 years and 362 days ago, he died of apparent cardiac arrest, just three days after the release of Donuts on his 32nd birthday. Dilla made his name as an ambassador of Detroit hip-hop, with 1st Down and then with Slum Village. It was with that latter that his deep musical knowledge and production skill were truly showcased, especially on 1997’s Fan-Tas-Tic, Vol. 1, which, recorded at his house, wasn’t officially released until some years later, during which diggers and collectors pushed prices for available cassettes sky-high.

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The effect of Dilla’s death on hip-hop is immeasurable, although one might point to the scores of tribute tracks, albums, and concerts to say that his influence hasn’t ever left. But still, as with all things, it wanes. His production hearkened back to days when DJs and producers were often musically trained in something other than Serato and MPCs, and his depth of knowledge for pulling samples is something that’s sorely missing from mainstream rap today.

In early February of 2010 Stussy, of all things, released a documentary on him that’s worth a watch, especially on a day like today. The first part’s up top, and the second and third below, but I wouldn’t stop there. Dilla, of all people, is worthy of the endless video-traveling YouTube timesuck, and I’d suggest clicking through to reminisce on the Jay Dee sound. Better yet, post your favorite tracks in the comments. When it comes down to it, one can never have too much Jay Dee.