Dilla Time by Dan Charnas
Equal parts biography, musicology, and cultural history, Dilla Time chronicles the life and legacy of J Dilla, a musical genius who transformed the sound of popular music for the twenty-first century by pioneering a new musical time-feel, an accomplishment on par with the achievements of Louis Armstrong and James Brown. Dilla, with only his drum machine, transformed the way traditional musicians play.
“J Dilla Was a Revered Rap Producer. A New Book Deepens His Legacy. The Detroit musician wasn’t known to give many interviews, and his influence has grown exponentially since his 2006 death. Dilla Time by Dan Charnas explores what drove him.”
The New York Times
“An ambitious, dynamic biography… that fully captures the subject’s ingenuity, originality, and musical genius.” (starred review, Best of 2022)
Kirkus
“I look at J Dilla as a man who redefined the word ‘innovative.’ This book makes you feel like you traveled his journey every single step.”
DJ Premier
