BBC Sounds release insightful documentary 'J Dilla: The UK Story'

Detroit-born record producer, rapper, and composer James Dewitt Yancey, more professionally known as J Dilla, left behind a legacy that has been hard to touch. Known for his exquisite taste in music, J Dilla created pillars in the music industry. Rising in the mid '90s during the underground hip hop scene in Detroit, J Dilla started off in the cleverly curated group, Slum Village. 

Their music strived to represent the unique sounds of where they were from, despite the constant comparison to another Hip-Hop group at the time. Now, after the 20th anniversary of his death, BBC Sounds has released a documentary highlighting J Dilla's impact on UK music. 

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In the documentary, CassKidd delves into Britain’s early recognition of Dilla’s talent, spotlighting the DJs, artists and cultural gatekeepers who amplified his sound,  while also examining how Dilla, in turn, drew inspiration from the UK’s own musical movements.

With contributions from Dan Charnas, Phat Kat, Jamz Supernova, Yemi Abiade, Pete Tong, Slowe, Lord Apex, and Benji B, the film unpacks the lasting imprint of Dilla’s signature swing across British rap, neo-soul, jazz and club scenes. Highlighting the two-way creative exchange between the UK and the US, the documentary shows how J Dilla's influence continues to ripple through UK music today.

Catch the documentary on BBC Sounds here

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Header image credit: @officialjdilla / Instagram.com