As part of this month’s ongoing celebration of the life of Detroit producer James “J Dilla” Yancey, Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest has released a visual accompaniment to his DJ Rasta Root-produced track “#dear Dilla.”
The track is expected to be included on Phife’s upcoming solo-album MUTTYMorphosis, but has been released early in conjunction with worldwide celebrations of Dilla’s birthday (February 8) and the day of his passing (February 10). The “Dilla Day” gatherings of February 2014 have featured live tribute concerts in Detroit, Sydney, Paris, Bristol, London, Albany, Philadelphia, Miami and Los Angeles.
To the excitement of Dilla Day Detroit attendees, Phife Dawg not only performed at the event – he debuted his Detroit-based video for “#dear Dilla” halfway through his performance.
The five-minute video (directed by Konee Rok) highlights well-known Detroit landmarks, pays a visit to Dilla’s Delights doughnut shop and even features Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancy (J Dilla’s mother) in a heartfelt cameo appearance. Phife’s storytelling prowess sets the stage for a powerful ode to his fallen friend and musical colleague.
In addition to the song and video’s musical appeal, Phife Dawg has announced that all proceeds from the song (and a special line of “Dear Dilla” clothing) will be directly donated to J Dilla’s family.
Watch Phife Dawg’s video for “#dear Dilla” below: