While we may remember J Dilla, mostly as a producer (and/or rapper), that was just one facet of his talent. Who knew the man could get down in the mix? Back To The Crib is clear proof of that, as the unreleased mixtape that dates back to 1999 and 2000 finally sees the light of day thanks to BBE Records.
The project includes classics from The Doobie Brothers, Heatwave, Bobby Caldwell, Stevie Wonder and many more. The co-founder of BBE Records, Peter Adarkwah, had a statement to go along with the tape.
Towards the end of 1999 or early 2000, it was my first trip to Detroit. James (Yancey) was working with James Poyser on Erykah’s Mama’s Gun LP. We’d checked out a couple of record stores (I can’t recall where or their names) and this tape was playing in the car. I recall “Think Twice was” on the tape and I suggested there and then that he do a cover with Erykah for the BBE album. We didn’t get the Erykah feature, but people sure remember James’ cover. We drove past a sign, it said Welcome To Detroit and I suggested that would be a good name for the album. When we pulled over James gave me the tape and said this is yours, or words to effect.
This is a great listen if you’re a fan of that old school.
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