FUSE TV - DJ Spinna Breaks Down 5 Fave J Dilla Songs

It's been six years to the day since hip hop producer J Dilla died, leaving behind both a massive catalog and influential legacy that has inspired Kanye West, Q-Tip and countless other producers. Both his work as a solo artist (Donuts remains one of the best hip hop albums of all time) and for-hire hitman (Busta Rhymes, Common) made Dilla one of the most revered beatmakers among fans and his peers alike. (Many producers have expressed envious frustration trying to decipher how Dilla made certain beats.)

Veteran DJ, producer and friend of Dilla DJ Spinna has released two tribute albums to the producer, 2007’s Dillagence and 2008’s Dilla is the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time), and has long considered the producer a musical inspiration. We got the producer to break down his five favorite Dilla tracks. But if you’re not familiar with Dilla's work, consider this a starting point down the rabbit hole rather than end all, be all.

Also, we've created a Dilla Tribute Playlist on Spotify to honor the producer's vast catalog.  Makes great background reading music.

5. Slum Village, "Players"

There's too many dope Slum beats that I love, but this was the first one to make my head spin on first listen. Dilla actually told me what this sample was. When I realized the "singers" were really saying "Claire" instead of "Players," I knew then that we had a special alien producer on this planet. This is more than just a beat; it's a composition meticulously constructed to give you a floating-on-air-like illusion. And how about them drums... "Rapper's Delight"!! Insane! It's moments like these that made you go back to the lab and rethink your entire career.