By: SoundSlam
Published: Feb. 10, 2006 - Los Angeles, CA

The supremely talented and influential producer J Dilla passed away today, Friday, February 10th. The Detroit-born producer famed for his compositions had a hand in creating music for A Tribe Called Quest, Common, D’Angelo, Kanye West, Busta Rhymes and his former group Slum Village, just to name a few.

At 32 years-old, J Dilla (born James Yancey) had previously dealt with medical problems, including hospitalization for a kidney ailment. Dilla told URB magazine in a 2004 interview, “What happened was that the doctor told me that I’d ruptured my kidney from being too busy and being stressed out and not eating right. He told me that if I’d waited another day, I might not have made it.” Sadly, that day has come although a specific cause of death has not yet been established.

The record label home to Dilla, Stones Throw, has confirmed the untimely and unfortunate death with a tribute on their home page.

Additionally, despite some verbal jabs taken by Slum Village at Dilla on their most recent self-titled record, the group is clearly mourning the loss of their old friend and musical companion. On SV’s Myspace page, they announce, “Today we lost an artist/ producer, a legend and most of all a friend. Much love and support to the family and thanks to all for the outpouring of love and prayers. J Dilla, you will be with us in everything we do.”

Dilla had an insatiable work ethic and had just released Donuts on February 7th, 2006. The 45 minute instrumental album utilizes his classic approach to music-making and ties his soulful, jazzy ambience and style.

SoundSlam will detail any information concerning J Dilla’s death when it becomes public. RIP J Dilla.