The late Detroit producer/rapper J Dilla is a hip-hop legend whose influence on music is still being felt to this day.
Similar to other deceased members of the rap community, including Biggie, 2Pac and Jam Master Jay, Dilla’s accomplishments as a groundbreaking artist are revered.
However, after his passing due to thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura in 2006, the man born James Dewitt Yancey status’ was elevated to iconic levels.
This week, New York will be paying homage to J Dilla’s impact on the culture with #NYLovesJDilla concert at Webster Hall.
TheGrio spoke to Ma Dukes, J Dilla’s mother, to discuss her late son and reflect on whether the current generation of emcees truly know and respect her son’s work.
Ma Duke’s on #NYLovesJDillaConcert:
Ma Duke’s on paying homage to J Dilla:
New York’s love for J Dilla’s music:
You can check out Kyle’s musical coverage on theGrio music page, and follow Kyle on Twitter at@HarveyWins.