The GOAT deserves his flowers. J Dilla’s legacy just got another fitting tribute, courtesy of Karriem Riggins, Busta Rhymes, and Westside Gunn. And if there’s one thing we know about these three? They don’t just hop on records—they craft art.
Dropping on February 7—now officially “J Dilla Day” in Detroit—the track “Long Live J Dilla” is a soulful, lyrical homage to the late, great producer.
How the Tribute Came Together
Karriem Riggins, a close friend and collaborator of Dilla, had been trying to connect with Westside Gunn for a while. He sent beats, Gunn vibed with them, but nothing stuck—until now.
Westside Gunn’s verse hit different. He didn’t just rap—he put his heart into it. One bar had Riggins shook:
“Every day I pray to J Dilla / It’s a full-time job not to spray a n*a.”**
A deep, raw moment of truth.
Riggins knew then that this track was bigger than just a collab—it was a Dilla dedication. But something was missing. Enter Busta Rhymes.
Busta Rhymes: The Final Touch
Originally, the track was just Gunn’s verse and a chorus, but Riggins wanted a second opinion. He called up Busta, played the track, and the Flipmode legend didn’t hesitate.
“Yo, I gotta get on this. I’ll have my verse tonight.”
That’s real love. Busta didn’t just approve—he became part of the moment. His signature energy, the rapid-fire bars, the passion—it all added another level to an already powerful tribute.
J Dilla’s Legacy: Now Official
The impact of J Dilla can’t be overstated, and now Detroit has made it official. February 7 is now recognized as “J Dilla Day” by the city—an acknowledgment of the influence he had on hip-hop, production, and the game itself.
From Common to Questlove, from Madlib to Slum Village, Dilla’s DNA runs deep in the culture. His signature drum patterns, unmatched ear for soul samples, and game-changing vision made him one of the greatest to ever do it.
Now, with Busta, Gunn, and Riggins carrying the torch, his influence remains as strong as ever.
What’s your favorite J Dilla track? Let’s talk about it.
Visit the KMOB Vibe Store for exclusive merch and drops!
KMOB1003 INSTAGRAM POST: A LEGEND HONORED
Busta Rhymes, Westside Gunn & Karriem Riggins link up for a J Dilla tribute. On what is now officially “J Dilla Day” in Detroit, producer Karriem Riggins dropped “Long Live J Dilla”—a soulful, heartfelt tribute featuring Busta Rhymes & Westside Gunn. The track is pure hip-hop gold, celebrating the genius of one of the greatest to ever do it.
“We give thanks to the Most High for his presence and his lasting impact. This one’s for Dilla.” – Karriem Riggins
Westside Gunn’s verse? Heavy. Busta Rhymes’ energy? Unmatched. The production? Vintage Dilla vibes.
Detroit just made it official—February 7 is now “J Dilla Day” forever. Rest in beats to a GOAT.
What’s your favorite J Dilla track? Drop it below.
#JDilla #JDillaDay #HipHopLegends #WestsideGunn #BustaRhymes #KarriemRiggins #Detroit #HipHopCulture #KMOB1003
