Date of Birth: February 7, 1974
Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Date of Death: February 10, 2006
Biography
J Dilla, born James Dewitt Yancey, was an influential American record producer and rapper who emerged from Detroit, Michigan. He was born on February 7, 1974, and became one of the most revered figures in hip-hop and neo-soul music. Often hailed for his innovative production techniques and unique sound, J Dilla worked with numerous high-profile artists, including A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Busta Rhymes, and Erykah Badu. His intricate beats and sampling methods left a lasting impact on the genre. Dilla started his career with the group Slum Village, which he co-founded in the early 1990s. His solo work further solidified his status, particularly after the release of his landmark album “Donuts” in 2006. Tragically, Dilla’s life was cut short by a rare blood disease known as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), compounded by lupus. He passed away on February 10, 2006, just three days after his 32nd birthday.
5 Interesting Facts about J Dilla
1. J Dilla was a founding member of the influential hip-hop group Slum Village.
2. His album “Donuts” was completed from his hospital bed and released just three days before his death.
3. He was part of the production collective known as The Ummah, which included Q-Tip and Ali Shaheed Muhammad from A Tribe Called Quest.
4. J Dilla’s mother, Maureen Yancey, is affectionately known as “Ma Dukes” and has been instrumental in preserving his legacy.
5. Dilla’s production style often utilized a technique called “quantization,” which gave his beats a distinctive, off-kilter rhythm.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from J Dilla
1. “Life is about rhythm. We vibrate, our hearts are pumping blood, we are a rhythm machine, that’s what we are.”
2. “The best way to get something done is to begin.”
3. “Music is my soul, the beat is my heart.”
4. “I just want to make good music, that’s all that matters.”
5. “You can’t copy anybody and end with anything. If you copy, it means you’re working without any real feeling.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, J Dilla’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.
Children
J Dilla had two daughters, Ja’Mya Yancey and Ty-Monae Whitlow, who have been part of his enduring legacy.
Relevant Links
1. [J Dilla on Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J_Dilla
2. [J Dilla Foundation](https://www.jdillafoundation.org/
4. [NPR Music’s J Dilla Profile](https://www.npr.org/artists/15399409/j-dilla
5. [J Dilla on Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/3405-J-Dilla
