Portishead producer to pay tribute to Hip Hop legend J Dilla

James Kennaby, who performs as Vice beats, is hosting An Afternoon of Dilla in Bristol on Saturday, November 21, at BIMM Institute.

The event is a community-led celebration of legendary Hip Hop producer J Dilla.

James said: “Since establishing An Afternoon of Dilla in 2023, the project has grown internationally, with events in Bristol, London, Manchester and Groningen in the Netherlands, bringing together musicians, DJs and audiences through a shared appreciation of Hip Hop culture.”

Tickets for the upcoming event can be purchased at headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/bimm-institute/sat-21-nov-an-afternoon-of-dilla-2026-163049.

He has collaborated with J Dilla’s mother, Ma Dukes, and the James Dewitt Yancey Foundation for several years, including producing the official Dilla: The Timeless Tribute album in 2020.

This year’s event will feature live performances, DJ sets and community activities, and is supported by Bristol businesses including Minirig, Out of Hand and Peggy’s Café.

BIMM is providing the venue, with media support from Wordplay Magazine.

James said: “Alongside my work as a producer, I’m also a music educator, and a big part of the project is exploring how music creates connections, opportunities and communities.”