D is for DILLA

The line to get into the EchoPlex last Friday for Nightlife was long. I can only compare its actual length to that of the line I waited in to get onto Space Mountain at Disneyland. Yes, it was amusement park long, but surprisingly, everyone in it seemed to be in good spirits. They patiently waited as it slowly moved inch by inch. They remained loyal and determined, unhindered that they faced a full capacity venue which only let a few individuals in at a time.. but I’m pretty sure it’s because they knew what awaited them inside.

The music inside the Echoplex was beyond good, it was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. Mr. Choc and JRocc spun their hearts out for the wall-to-wall audience, and they were rewarded with cheers of appreciation. It was exciting and upbeat and reminiscent of Dilla. You could feel the energy and the serious body heat in the air. There were so many people inside that the notion of personal space seemed non-existent. It was a struggle moving from one side of the room to the other without getting an elbow in the gut, brushing against a stranger’s backside, and a drink being poured down the front of your dress. But it was worth it.

And once Slum Village came on stage, the energy level in the place soared to new heights. The audience threw their hands in the air and sang along to every song as if it had rehearsed. You could not avoid being swept up and singing along, or in my case, humming. Music and love was everywhere and we all spent the evening celebrating and remembering J Dilla.

Though its been four years since his death nothing has changed. J Dilla’s music still lives on and we still continue to listen. Since his passing he’s gone from hip-hop to symphony orchestra, reaching new heights and finding new fans, and his legacy only continues to grow. Where there’s music, there’s love, there’s understanding, there’s remembrance. Let’s keep the celebration going this month.. there is nothing better than this.

photos by Azul