The story
Coined by American author, radio host and record company executive Dan Charnas in 2022 in his book Dilla Time. Named after American record producer, rapper and composer J Dilla (1974–2006).
Etymology from Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Dilla time
Today it means: A groove in which notes are intentionally placed slightly ahead of or behind the grid, creating a loose, unquantized feel that simultaneously blends elements of straight time and swing time. Full definition →