“Before we get this started, let me explain it. It’s Ruff Draft. For my real ****** only … Sound like it’s straight from the ma’fuckin’ cassette! … Let’s do it.”

…Thus begins Ruff Draft. These self-produced tracks make up one of the late J Dilla’s least known works during his lifetime. Released on vinyl only in February 2003 this sought-after release was elusive and virtually unknown to the casual Dilla fan until Stones Throw’s reissue in 2007. Recorded in the wake of a failed deal with major label, Dilla returned to solo recordings as a fiercely independent artist with Ruff Draft.