IPSWICH THINGS TO DO
Dilla Time: A Tribute to J Dilla
The Smokehouse, Ipswich
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Information - Dilla Time: A Tribute to J Dilla
Get ready for a night of incredible beats and soulful vibes as we celebrate one of the most influential figures in hip-hop history! Dilla Time is coming to The Smokehouse, bringing you a curated music experience that goes far beyond your average DJ night.
Whether you’re a lifelong hip-hop head or just looking for a fantastic night out with friends, this event is all about good music, great drinks, and memorable moments right here in the heart of Ipswich.
A Tribute to a Legend
The evening is dedicated to the legendary music producer J Dilla, renowned for his innovative sampling and his signature “drunken” rhythm that changed the sound of hip-hop forever. Over his career, Dilla produced masterpieces for icons like A Tribe Called Quest, Erykah Badu, MF Doom, and Busta Rhymes.
Leading the tribute is young hip-hop connoisseur Dylan Jay. Despite his age, Dylan has a deep-rooted passion for music spanning from the 60s to the 90s. With a cultured ear for everything from Jazz and Soul to Funk and Disco, his tribute set to J Dilla is set to be a masterclass in rhythm and flow.
Meet the Local Lineup
We are lucky to have some fantastic local talent warming up the decks with tasteful, old-school cuts:
- Big P: A veteran of the scene, Big P spent four years hosting ‘Soul Funktion’ on Ipswich Community Radio. He lives and breathes funk, soul, and the golden age of hip-hop.
- JAL: An avid record collector who cut his teeth listening to pirate radio, JAL has played sets across the UK and Europe, bringing a mix of rare groove, funk, and soul.
- EDS: Representing Generation X, EDS has a rich history in the DJ scene, from the gangster rap of the late 80s to the US soulful house and UK garage scenes of the early 00s. He’s now returned to his first love: beats, rhymes, and life.
Event Details
Don’t miss out on this soulful journey through hip-hop history. Here is everything you need to know:
- Date: Friday 8th May 2026
- Time: 7:30pm – 11:00pm
- Venue: The Smokehouse, Ipswich
- Price: £5 + booking fee
- Age Restriction: 18+
Accessibility Information
The Smokehouse is an inclusive venue. There is step-free access into the building, and the bar, performance area, and accessible toilets are all located on a single floor. If you have specific requirements to make your visit more comfortable, please feel free to contact the venue directly for more information.
Gather your mates, grab a drink, and we’ll see you on the dancefloor for Dilla Time!



