Articulate: Dilla, Hype after Death?

James Dewitt Lancey, the man known as J Dilla and a number of other aliases tragically passed away February 10th 2006 at the young age of 32. The man was clearly blessed with a musical 'ear' that gave us the illustrious sounds of some of Hip Hops finest artists, like Common, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul and Busta Rhymes to name but a few.

His beats have inspired producers all over the world, so there is no denying his talent. It's fair to say that his legacy will truly live on for Hip Hop generations to come.

Like with a lot of artists, no matter the field of artistry they come from, they seem to be more exalted after death than during their lifetime. But is that acknowledgment over-exaggerated? We only need to look at Tupac and Biggie; were they really all that? Does popularity make you 'great'? Would we still feel the same way if they were still around today? It's all subject to debate.

We looked at Jay Dee and asked you the people to give us your honest opinion on his place in the Hip Hop hall of Fame. Is

J Dilla a 'great' producer? 'One of the best there is'? Or is it simply Hype after Death? Thank you to those who participated.

J.Dilla Discography

J.Dllla Foundation

Clarity Jane

What do you think? Comments

Return to Articulate list