"Dilla's interest in music started at age 2, " his mother says.

NPR: Hip-Hop Producer, Rapper Jay Dee AKA J Dilla

Until this point, Cross' production was widely considered to be his greatest talent, given the extent to which he's inspired by his role model and fellow Motor City native, the late James Yancey (J Dilla).

NPR: First Listen: Black Milk, 'Album Of The Year'

Detroit musician James Yancey also known as J Dilla and Jay Dee was one of the music industry's most influential hip-hop artists, working for big-name acts like De La Soul, Busta Rhymes and Common.

NPR: Hip-Hop Producer, Rapper Jay Dee AKA J Dilla