How Jazz and Hip Hop Harmonize: J Dilla, Herbie Hancock, and Nas

PBS Member Stations rely on viewers like you. To support your local station, go to: ↓ More info below ↓ Hip hop’s foundation and evolution owe itself to jazz. And it’s reciprocal. Jazz has borrowed from all facets of hip hop culture and musical contributions, showing that one of the country’s oldest genres is still young at heart. Together Linda Diaz and LA Buckner work together to break down how these two genres cross-pollinate. LA Buckner talks to Karriem Riggins about the J Dilla formula. Linda Diaz interviews Lakecia Benjamin about the ways hip hop has influenced her as a jazz saxophonist. Make sure to stay for the end to see their original jazz and hip-hop inspired track. Watch more Sound Field! How Classical, R&B, and Jazz Musicians Play Differently (Feat.  @Adam Neely ) 00:00 - Intro 00:44 - Pop Quiz 02:04 - Jazz, Scatting, and Lyrical Wordplay 05:20 - Jazz Influence in Rap Styles