Popcast Popcast

How Busta Rhymes Turned 300 Unreleased J Dilla Beats Into His New Album

Aug 21, 2026 · 54m

Summary

NYT Popcast hosts John Caramanica and Joe Coscarelli interview Busta Rhymes about his new album, Diligence II, featuring beats from the late J Dilla. Rhymes discusses his creative process, the emotional weight of collaborating with deceased peers like D'Angelo, and his enduring influence on hip-hop culture. He also reflects on his fashion line, health journey, and the importance of self-advocacy in the music industry.

Topics discussed

Intro and SNHU Sponsorship Busta Rhymes' Legacy and New Music Relationship with J Dilla and Creative Process Dilla Time and Human Timing in Music Speed Rapping and Flow Technique The Big Bang Album and Dilla Estate Project Grief and Loss of Dilla and D'Angelo Longevity in Hip-Hop and Aging Artists Mentorship and Cross-Genre Collaborations Viral Verses and Transcending Eras The Flavor Remix and New York Rap Unity Pre-Social Media Era and Rivalries Creative Flow and AI in Music Vintage Beats vs. New Sounds and Patience Influence on Younger Artists and Showmanship Fashion, Sneakers, and Personal Style Health Journey and Physical Peak Advocating for Features and Career Hustle Extinction Level Event 2 and Patience Cooking, Snacks, and Episode Conclusion
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