Shinola partners with rapper Big Sean to launch collection honoring hip-hop legend J Dilla
Detroit-based luxury brand Shinola is releasing two limited-edition watches and a leather record bag designed in honor of Detroit-born producer, composer and rapper James Dewitt Yancey, best known as J Dilla. The late and legendary Dilla, whose musical legacy helped shape modern music, died in 2006 at age 32.
To commemorate the launch, Shinola has partnered with Detroit native and multi-platinum superstar Big Sean to announce the release, bringing together the craftsmanship of an iconic Detroit brand with the true essence of Detroit culture.
'(Dilla) was born with a gift, a natural rhythm about him,' Big Sean narrates in Shinola's promo video. 'They say he could match pitch-perfect harmony before he even learned how to speak. And for a kid from the East Side growing up in the '80s, music was like currency. It was a way to make sense of the world, to connect with people, and his craft connected us all.
'His greatness is clocked in the tiniest increments of time. That's why J Dilla is one of the greatest producers … of all time. He was a genius, hands down.'
The release is the latest addition to Shinola's Great American series, honoring American icons who have shaped, influenced and changed American culture.
In a thoughtful touch, each timepiece in this release also includes a journal entry penned by Dan Charnas, author of 2022 New York Times bestseller 'Dilla Time: The Life and Afterlife of J Dilla, the Hip-Hop Producer Who Reinvented Rhythm.'
Dilla's daughter Ja'Mya Yancey told the Free Press she's 'in awe' of the product line.
'Honestly, I really didn't know what to expect,' she said. 'This is the first time that we've really ventured into something like this, as far as our collaborations. (Shinola) did an awesome job. They really had a unique take on presenting him and his likeness. I feel like they didn't go the generic way to put out a product – they took their time, and I really think that my father would most definitely approve and be honored.'
Dilla's daughter, TyMonae Whitlow, said the experience has been an honor.
'It means the world to us that after 19 years, brands like Shinola want to pay homage and show respect … not only for his work but for his impact on the city of Detroit,' said Whitlow. 'This collection is very well thought out and showcases the complexity of his work and his dedication.'
More on Shinola: Detroit watchmaker, 'SNL' cast members team up to create custom 'SNL 50' watches
Phil Pirkovic, Director of Brand & Partnerships at Shinola, said he's 'thrilled' about partnering with Big Sean and the support of the J Dilla Estate.
'This collaboration came together organically, fueled by our shared love for the city of Detroit and the vibrant culture,' Pirkovic said. 'Big Sean's creative energy perfectly aligns with our vision of bringing this collection to life, and we're excited to share this special moment with our customers and J Dilla fans alike.'
To learn more, customers can sign up for the waitlist at shinola.com/jdilla to be first to know when the collection goes live and becomes available for purchase.
Contact Free Press arts and culture reporter Duante Beddingfield at dbeddingfield@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Shinola, Big Sean partner to launch J Dilla product line
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