Four years ago today, the legendary producer James “Dilla” Yancey passed away. The supremely talented, extremely prolific producer has become a sort of cult icon after his death. Common, Busta Rhymes, Sa-Ra, Janet Jackson, and countless others were subsumed into Dilla's sphere of influence, but he never got the mainstream recognition he deserved. Until now. But instead of waxing nostalgic, we'll let Dilla experts and his music do the talking.

There's so many Dilla moments and tributes that we couldn't get em all in. But here's a few. Browse Stonesthrow and Mochilla for more. If you have some more required Dilla reading or listening, feel free to give us a link in the comments section. Thanks.

J Dilla Anthology (abridged) after the jump:

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Common Remembers J Dilla

For Dilla, Let's Turn It Up.

J DILLA: THE WORLD'S GREATEST PRODUCER (via Global Grind)

J Dilla Cover Story: Real Detroit Weekly, 2006

Jay Dee 1974-2006 Urb, 2006

Jay Dee's Last Days Detroit Free Press, Feb. 2006

B+ Remembers Dilla & Madlib in Brazil

Associated Press: J Dilla Obit

New York Times: J Dilla Obit

Behind the Beat: Hip-hop home studios book with J Dilla, 2005

What Did J Dilla Mean To You? (Via Spoonfed UK)

An Interview with J Dilla's Mother, Ms. Maureen Yancey (By Jeff Weiss)

Thank You, J Dilla (by Ernest Hardy)

Feb. 13 is Dilla Day: DJ in-store events at Stussy locations

Stonesthrow and Ma Dukes talk about Dilla's last days

Dwele ft. The Suite for Ma Dukes Orchestra “Angel”

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The Sounds of VTech / Angel Feat. Dwele   vtechlogo sm

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