FANZINE

The Legacy of J Dilla

Essentials: J Dilla

J Dilla, born in Detroit in 1974, remains an influential figure in hip-hop. His untimely 2006 death has not dimmed his legacy. Known for complex musicianship and innovative production, Dilla is a revered icon. He worked with De La Soul, The Pharcyde, and was key in Slum Village. He also joined The Ummah and the SoulquariansHis use of the Akai MPC drum machine is legendary. His equipment is now in the Smithsonian.

Dilla’s sound was intricate and sample-heavy. He was influenced by George Clinton and A Tribe Called Quest. His work pushed hip-hop’s boundaries. Albums like Fantastic, Vol. 2 and Donuts showcase his unique production style. He blended soul, jazz, and R&B into new musical creations. Dilla was also a skilled rapper, contributing to Jaylib and solo projects. His influence spans across hip-hop, inspiring artists like Kendrick Lamar and MF DOOM. Dilla’s legacy continues to inspire new generations. 

You can learn all about this hip-hop luminary when IN-EDIT NL presents the Dutch Premiere of The Legacy of J Dilla during our sixth edition. But before that, we explore ten essential tracks from his vast discography. What are some of your favorite J Dilla productions?

Don’t Cry (from “Donuts”)

Utilizing a 10cc sample, Don’t Cry exemplifies how Dilla transformed samples into new, expressive compositions. His minimalist approach to drum patterns and strategic use of loops serve as a study in effective sampling, showcasing both technical skill and nuanced understanding of music’s emotional potential.

Workinonit (from “Donuts”)


Dilla crafts a complex rhythmic structure using samples from The Isley Brothers and Mantronix. Workonit further demonstrates his proficiency in sample manipulation, highlighting his role in advancing sampling as a critical technique in hip-hop production.

Fall in Love (Slum Village)


Featuring a sample from Gap Mangione, this Slum Village track perfectly reflects Dilla’s minimalist production philosophy. The choice of a subtle loop complements the group’s vocal delivery, illustrating Dilla’s ability to amplify lyrical content.

Runnin’ (The Pharcyde)


Incorporating a bossa nova sample from Stan Getz and Luiz Bonfá, Runnin’ showcases Dilla’s talent for genre fusion. This track highlights his innovative approach to integrating jazz into hip-hop.

Stakes Is High (De La Soul)Runnin’ (The Pharcyde)


With its clear drum line and piano loop, Stakes Is High frames De La Soul’s observations on hip-hop culture. It exemplifies Dilla’s capability to produce musically engaging and contextually relevant beats, mirroring the socio-cultural concerns of the mid-90s.

Find a Way (A Tribe Called Quest)


Dilla’s manipulation of a Towa Tei sample for Find a Way preserves A Tribe Called Quest’s signature sound while introducing new stylistic elements, affirming his effectiveness in collaborative settings.

Didn’t Cha Know (Erykah Badu)


Dilla bridges hip-hop and neo-soul by sampling Tarika Blue for Erykah Badu’s 2001 track. His production supports Badu’s vocals with a smooth beat and atmospheric sound.

The Light (Common)


Featuring a Bobby Caldwell sample, The Light illustrates Dilla’s capacity for creating resonant music that supports lyrical narratives. This track from Common may be Dilla at his most refined.

Last Donut of the Night (from “Donuts”)


Utilizing a sample from The Moments, this purely instrumental piece conveys a reflective tone. It is an example of Dilla’s skill in conveying stories and emotions through instrumental hip-hop, where inventive sampling is imperative.

Gobstopper (from “Donuts”)


This track, sampling the whimsical and melodic sounds Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, showcases Dilla’s creative sampling sources. It also stands out for its minimalist approach, where Dilla distills the essence of the original sample into a loop that serves as the backbone of the beat. By manipulating the pitch and tempo, and layering it with subtle, yet precise, drum patterns, Dilla crafts a sound that is both nostalgic and distinctly modern