The family of late super producer J. Dilla has formed a new record label to focus exclusively on the legendary producer’s catalog.
Maureen “Ma Dukes” Yancy is the head of Ruff Draft Records, which will focus on unreleased music created by Dilla, who died from complications of lupus on February 10, 2006.
The label will also release music from new artists as well.
“We want to make it more feasible to interact with these children, we don’t know how many J. Dilla’s we have out there,” Ms. Yancy told AllHipHop.com. “Somebody has to find them.”
On Friday May 25, a number of artists will come together to celebrate the launch of Ruff Draft Records, in addition to the release of J. Dilla’s new album Rebirth of Detroit.
Confirmed acts that will perform during the listening session/event include Guilty Simpson, Bishop Lamont, DJ Spinna, Kai Alce, Waajeed, DJ TJ the King and others.
The event will also feature a special performance by McKinley Jackson, who is the father of late rapper Proof.
Jackson, who is former producer/arranger for Motown, will launch his new group, the Philanthropists of Soul.
During the night, a limited edition 10-inch vinyl will be released, featuring J. Dilla produced tracks “Jay Dee’s Revenge” featuring Danny Brown, and ‘Birthright’ with Big Tone, Guilty Simpson, and Finale.
“I’m not down for the count,” Ms. Yancy said. “I’m a Hip-Hop head and I love it.”
The Rebirth of Detroit listening party will take place at The Magic Stick in Detroit on May 25th.
Doors open at 9:00 PM.
Rebirth of Detroit is due in stores on June 12.
Courtesy of AllHipHop.com
