J Dilla’s Brother Illa J Steps Into the Booth for XXL’s Family Ties

Family Ties gives fans a chance to check out other members of a successful rapper or producer's bloodline who are chasing their own dreams to become a member of hip-hop's elite. In each episode, XXL invites a relative of a famous rapper to hit our studio to give a performance of a never-before heard song. Previous guests include Big Pun's son, Chris Rivers and Lloyd Banks' brother, Loui V.

Wondering if the rapping genes got passed down? Watch the video and decide for yourself. While some have inherited the superstar ability, others seemed to have missed the boat.

In the third installment of the Family Ties series, J Dilla's brother Illa J hits our studio for an exclusive performance. Illa J, who also hails from Detroit, dropped out of Central Michigan University to pursue a career in music after his brother passed in 2006. In 2008, Illa J released his debut album, Yancey Boys, which featured previously unreleased J Dilla beats that were found at the offices of Delicious Vinyl.

The rapper, singer, producer and songwriter released his self-titled album in October and tagged Potatohead People, Kaytranada and Iva Ave for production. Illa has dropped two full-length solo albums of his own and was once an official member of Slum Village and continues to collaborate with the act.

Check out the performance above and stay tuned for more editions of Family Ties.

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