I can go on about the legendary James Yancey, aka J-dilla, and what his music has done for me. Almost every artist relevant today who’s been inspired by him has sampled, remixed, or has made tracks solely to pay tribute to him. Including artists such as, J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Pharrell, B.J. the Chicago Kid, Flying Lotus, Kanye, Joey Bada$$ to list a few. A true pioneer of sampling, swing in hip hop, and neo-soul. But what has influenced me the most about Dilla was his humility as well as his work ethic. Here’s my favorite radio interview of him that I feel reflects a bit of his sound, personality, and character.

Rest in Beats, Jay Dee (feb. 7 1974 – feb. 10 2006)!