J Dilla’s MPC and Moog Added to New Smithsonian Museum

The Smithsonian is currently constructing the new National Museum of African American History and Culture just down the street from the Washington Monument. Among the countless historically significant items set to be displayed in the new building is one that will truly appeal to music fans — J Dilla’s MPC. Widely regarded as one of the best hip-hop producers of all time, Dilla’s contribution to both music and the culture has been incredible, and moves such as this continue to show it has not gone unnoticed. Above, watch Dilla’s mother, Maureen Yancey, announce the donation at the benefit concert, which raises money to battle lupus — a disease that might have played a part in Dilla’s early death.

“I feel it’s necessary to raise the level of art appreciation in the hip-hop sector and honor my son James Dewitt Yancey, one of the most influential individuals in the history of hip-hop.”