Today would have marked James Dewitt Yancey, aka J Dilla’s 43rd born day.
The wildly gifted and highly revered producer is still making an impact (as he should be) 11 years after his untimely passing, with tributes and salutes continuously pouring in, even when we’re months away from Dilla Month (which, need we remind you, is happening right now).
Durham, North Carolina’s Danny Blaze is just another fine example of an artist raised on Dilla Dawg’s music, and in honor of his birthday, Danny praises the former’s achievements and the paths he’s cleared for many up-and-coming artists on “Thank You Mr. Yancey.”
The song uses Dilla’s “Believe In God” (off 2007’s Jay Love Japan) and also features Tab One of Kooley High.
Watch the video above and stream the song below.
It’s been over a decade since the legend J. Dilla passed, but his influence on me as a person and as an artist have grown every year since. The song is my tribute to him and my thanks for everything he contributed to Hip-Hop. I first heard his production on “Runnin'” by The Pharcyde as a kid and I was instantly a fan. Although I didn’t know who he was until much later I appreciated his talent and admired his work ethic. He made his album that influenced me the most “Donuts”, while in the hospital suffering from Lupus. Being sick couldn’t even stop him from making some of the best music I’ve ever heard.
