J Dilla’s uncle is honoring the producer’s legacy with the Dilla’s Delights donut shop in J Dee’s hometown of Detroit. The shop had its grand opening today (May 3) and sold out of the donuts three times in four hours, according to Fox 2 Detroit.
The confections are made from 100 percent organic flower by owner Herman Hayes at an off-location facility and are brought to the store as needed. J Dilla named his 2006 album Donuts. It was released days before he passed away from complications due to Lupus.
“This means the world to him,” Dilla’s cousin, Herman Hayes Jr. says, “He was all about the community and family and fun. That’s what food is about, and treats and delights.”
Store manager Glenn Telton says that besides furthering J Dilla’s musical legacy, the store will hopefully help empower future generations, including J Dilla’s two daughters.
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“This is all about bringing something to the community and then help Dilla’s kids,” Telton says. “We’re going to have them come in here and learn the business, something they can learn and take over when it’s time.”
According to the Detroit Free Press, Hayes has been making the donuts for a few years and selling them at different cafes and markets before he opened the shop. He is working on opening up his own kitchen as well.
Dilla’s Delights is open Monday through Saturday from 5 a.m. to sell-out and is located at 242 John R Street.
Watch the Fox 2 Detroit news report on Dilla’s Delights honoring J Dilla below:
