Influential producer J Dilla would have celebrated his 43rd birthday today (Feb. 7). Sadly, the late studio maestro is no longer with us. The Detroit native passed away on Feb. 10, 2006, after a long battle with lupus. Thankfully, his music and legacy continues to be celebrated year after year.

Although Dilla is a great producer, he was also a formidable MC. Granted, he wasn’t no Kendrick Lamar, but the Donuts creator could spit some quotable bars whenever it was needed.

While his discography is filled with memorable beats, we wanted to take a look back at his work as a rapper. When it came to his lyrical skills, Dilla Dawg didn’t take himself too seriously. He would often spit braggadocios rhymes, but he also could get political particularly on his anti-police brutality song, “F--- the Police.”

In honor of Dilla's 42nd born year, here is The BoomBox’s list of the 10 Best Lyrics from J Dilla.

R.I.P. J Dilla!

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