For his latest project, Detroit’s Illa J has been collaborating with Vancouver-based production duo Potatohead People on a self-titled album. Due out later this summer, he’s shared the first single from the LP, “Strippers.”
From his work in the hip-hop groups Slum Village and Yancey Boys, it’s widely known that Illa J can deliver a verse. On “Strippers,” his tight flow matches up seamlessly with the track’s pulsating beat from start to finish, creating a singular groove that demands head-bobbing. The song is short, but it still finds room for a smooth chorus reminiscent of Nate Dogg’s best hooks.
Over the past couple years, Illa’s been spending most of his free time in Montreal, where his girlfriend resides. It’s also where he met beatsmith Kaytranada, who contributed to this track (and has been compared to Illa J’s late brother, the legendary producer J Dilla), and hopefully the city’s eclectic beat scene shows its influence on more of the album. “Strippers” is sweet like candy, and as soon as it’s gone you’re left craving more.
Stream “Strippers” below. You can download the full single and instrumental b-side on Bandcamp.