J Dilla To Have Detroit Street Named In His Honor

J Dilla‘s hometown of Detroit is naming a street after him in his honor. Reports indicate that the late producer was confirmed for this honorary moment, along with producer legend Amp Fiddler, civil rights activist Horace Sheffield Jr., Detroit Piston Earl Cureton, and murdered local Vincent Chin. City Council President Mary Sheffield told the Detroit News: “Everyone here that was recommended is notable, is honorable, has done great things for our city, and we appreciate that this is very difficult for us to only select five.” The street sign will be located at the intersection of Nevada and Charest Street, near his childhood home, where he produced some of his infamous work.

Amp Fiddler, a former member of Funkadelic, mentored J Dilla, introducing him to his first drum machine—a pivotal moment that ignited his talent and led to collaborations with major artists like Q-Tip. Dan Charnas, author of the celebrated biography Dilla Time: The Life and Afterlife of J Dilla, the Hip Hop Producer Who Reinvented Rhythm, shared his excitement about the announcement on social media.

HIP-HOP Honors J Dilla’s Legacy on His 50th Birthday

Charnas wrote, “You know some of Detroit’s famous thoroughfares named for notable citizens: Woodward, John R., Cass. Joining them now will be two more: Yancey and Fiddler.” “Thanks to the city council and congratulations to everyone who worked to put these two important Detroiters on the map.” The rap community has honored the legend on what would have been his 50th birthday.

Busta Rhymes stated on Instagram, “HAPPY 50 TO THE GREATEST TO EVER DO IT @officialjdilla.” “MY FAVORITE PRODUCER EVER AND ONE OF MY FAVORITE MC’S EVER!! I WILL FOREVER REPRESENT YOU THROUGH MY WORK KING!!” Common stepped in to pay tribute, voicing, “There isn’t a day that goes by that my life isn’t moved and touched by what you brought to it.” “Thank You my great brother for blessing me and the planet with your gifts and your artistry and your genius.”

J Dilla, born James Yancey, died at the age of 32 in 2006 from complications related to the rare blood disorder thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP).