Busta Rhymes Discussed Dillagence II at Grammy Museum

The iconic rapper detailed his latest project and collaboration with the late J Dilla in Los Angeles.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Hip-Hop and Rap

A vintage studio microphone on a stand sits in a bright spotlight on a dark wooden stage inside an auditorium. — Busta Rhymes discussed his new collaborative project, Dillagence II, at a Grammy Museum Q&A event in Los Angeles featuring production by the late J Dilla. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Busta Rhymes held a Q&A session at the Grammy Museum to discuss his new album, Dillagence II. The release features production by the late James J Dilla Yancey.

Why it matters

The album serves as a creative effort to capture a specific historical period using production work that has remained timeless for two decades. It highlights the lasting influence of J Dilla on modern hip-hop artistry.

Busta Rhymes has earned 12 career Grammy nominations and utilized production that dates back 20 years for his latest project. The new album features 25-track beat CDs originally curated by the late producer.

The players

Busta Rhymes

He is a prolific rapper and producer known for his intricate rhyme schemes and high-energy delivery.

James J Dilla Yancey

He was an influential hip-hop producer from Detroit whose unique beat-making style transformed the genre.

Common

He is a veteran rapper and actor who performed alongside Busta Rhymes at the Los Angeles event.

Grammy Museum

This Los Angeles institution is dedicated to the history and cultural significance of music.

The details

During the event, Busta Rhymes performed alongside guest Common while detailing the collaborative process behind the album. The project includes high-profile contributions from Anderson .Paak, D'Angelo, Ludacris, Lil Wayne, and Jon Batiste.

James J Dilla Yancey died in 2006.
Busta Rhymes received vocals for the track This Woman from D'Angelo in February 2026.
The album Dillagence II was released in August 2026.
A Q&A event took place at the Grammy Museum on October 5, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

This release continues the long-standing trend of posthumous production shaping contemporary hip-hop releases. It demonstrates how artists maintain the creative legacy established following the 2006 death of James J Dilla Yancey.

Fans can listen to the new album on major streaming platforms following its August 2026 release. The museum event provides context for listeners looking to understand the production history behind these tracks.

The takeaway

The album Dillagence II underscores the importance of preserving the work of legendary producers for future generations. Listeners can gain deeper appreciation for the tracks by recognizing the two decades of history embedded in the beat selection.