Hip-hop producer J. Dilla would have turned 42 yesterday — and two Stones Throw Records artists Karriem Riggins (on drums) and J. Rocc (on turntables) recently paid tribute to the legendary and influential producer with an improvisational performance of two classic Dilla tracks “Lightworks” and “E=MC²” as part of of the label’s “Dungeon Sessions.” Certainly, if you’re a hip-hop head, you know that Dilla’s influence looms large both on hip-hop and on neo-soul. After all, Dilla worked with some of hip-hop’s most beloved and popular artists and although his sound is imitable, no one else’s sound seems to possess its soulfulness and warmth — and the legendary producer has been credited as sparking the neo-soul movement. (The video was shot in immerse 360°, which allows you to actually choose the direction you want to watch; however, it’s not currently available to see on some browsers — most notably Safari.)
This upcoming weekend New York will pay tribute to the legendary producer with the 10th Annual Donuts Are Forever Party at Brooklyn Bowl. Be on the lookout for coverage on that in the near future.
