J Dilla “Donuts” (Best of the Decade)

Donuts was released in February of 2006 on Jay Dee’s 32nd birthday, just three days before his untimely death. While fighting the diseases that would lead to his passing, Dilla worked day and night on Donuts because he wanted the album to see the light of day. This is probably my favorite album of all-time; not simply for for the replay value of the record, but for the sheer genius of it. Jay Dee’s passion pours out powerfully on Donuts, as he runs through a variety of soundscapes faster than one can fathom. Many people believe that the titles of the tracks and the samples used in this album were Dilla’s way of delivering his last words to his fans; my belief is similar. I feel as though Donuts was his way of saying goodbye, but it was also his way of showing the world what his influences were.

From the opening moments of “Workinonit” the album takes off with the velocity of an Indy Car. The smooth vocal samples and mellow strings of “Waves” make for a relaxing, yet very groovy vibe. Jay’s rolling piano melody and serenading strings make “Mash” one of my favorite tracks on the album. The track “Time: Donut of the Heart” is so beautiful; every time I listen to it I am on the verge of tears. Dilla chops Raymond Scott’s “Lightworks” into oblivion and re-creates his own version of the track with astonishing results; I am still amazed how Dilla re-arranged the chorus to say “Light up your spliffs, the name of the game is Lightworks.” The beautiful soul slathered samples and and high pitched strings provide and uplifting beat on “Two Can Win.” On the track “Don’t Cry” Jay’s vocal samples reach through the speakers and reprieve the listener of their impending pain. Jay’s cranium cracking drums on “Thunder” are sure to make any Doubting Thomas nod in approval. “Bye.” is the perfect track for Jay to say goodbye; the angelic melody puts a subtle smile on my face during every listen.

After listening to this Donuts (many times over, or maybe even just once) it becomes quite evident why Dilla was “Your favorite producer’s favorite producer”: he was damn good. Dilla’s mind marauding drums are a sound that I will always find comfort in. To me, Donuts is more than Dilla’s final opus; it’s a snack that will never get old.

Also: Slum Village “Dope Man”