Busta Rhymes Discusses 'Dillagence II' at Grammy Museum

The atmosphere at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles was charged with reverence and nostalgia as Busta Rhymes sat down with Anderson .Paak to dissect his latest musical endeavor, 'Dillagence II.' Released in August, the album serves as a tribute to the legendary producer J Dilla, utilizing a collection of unreleased beats that Rhymes had been safeguarding for years. The event was not merely a promotional stop but a deeply personal reflection on a legacy that continues to shape hip-hop.

Rhymes opened the evening with raw vulnerability, admitting to the audience that he had shed tears backstage. The weight of the moment was palpable, as he acknowledged the presence of J Dilla’s mother, affectionately known as Ma Dukes, alongside industry titans like Sylvia Rhone and Jimmy Jam. For Rhymes, the project represents more than just a collaboration; it is a fulfillment of a long-standing promise to honor the creative genius of a friend who passed away in 2006.

During the conversation, Rhymes provided insight into the unique process of working with Dilla. He recounted visits to Dilla’s home in Detroit, where the producer would hand him CDs containing dozens of beats. Rhymes described the technical challenges of these early recordings, noting that the tracks often faded in and out, requiring immense effort to loop into full songs. He spoke fondly of Ma Dukes, who acted as both a nurturing presence and a technical assistant, managing Dilla’s extensive record collection and ensuring the creative flow remained uninterrupted.

One of the most compelling aspects of the discussion was Rhymes’ admission of intimidation. He confessed that many of Dilla’s beats were so masterful that he felt hesitant to record over them, fearing that his own performance might diminish the quality of the production. This level of respect underscores the meticulous care taken in the creation of 'Dillagence II.' The album features an impressive roster of collaborators, including D’Angelo, Ludacris, Lil Wayne, and Jon Batiste, all of whom contribute to the project’s cohesive and soulful sound.

Rhymes walked the audience through specific tracks, such as 'This Woman,' which features D’Angelo. He recalled the speed at which the song came together, receiving the vocals in February and completing his verses within the same day. He also touched upon his collaboration with Anderson .Paak and Common on the track 'Kingpin (Knock Ya Head Off),' highlighting the synergy between the artists involved. The evening concluded with a live performance that reminded the audience of Rhymes’ enduring stage presence and lyrical prowess.

When asked about the potential for Grammy recognition, Rhymes remained philosophical. Having been nominated 12 times throughout his storied career without a win, he emphasized that the true reward lies in the impact of the music and the ability to share these stories with his fans. The event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of J Dilla and the dedication of Busta Rhymes to preserving the integrity of hip-hop culture.