Who Is Illa J? Age, Biography, and Wiki
As of 2025, Illa J is 38 years old. He was born in Los Angeles, California, and is the younger brother of the late J Dilla, a legendary hip-hop producer. Illa J grew up surrounded by music and was heavily influenced by his brother's work. He gained recognition for his debut album, "Illa J," released in 2012 and has continued to evolve as an artist over the years, blending hip-hop with R&B and soul influences.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 13, 1986 |
| Age | 39 Years |
| Birth Place | Detroit, Michigan, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Illa J's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While exact measurements are often personal, Illa J is estimated to stand around 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall, typical for male rappers in the industry. His weight fluctuates, but he maintains a healthy physique consistent with his active lifestyle and passion for music.
John Derek Yancey (born October 13, 1986), better known by his stage name Illa J, is an American rapper, singer, record producer and songwriter from Detroit, Michigan who has released two albums on Delicious Vinyl Records. He is the younger brother of the late hip hop producer, and rapper J Dilla, and a former member of hip hop group Slum Village.
He also released a collaborative album as Yancey Boys along with Frank Nitt. Illa J's second solo album ILLA J came out via the Brooklyn based record label, Bastard Jazz.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Illa J has kept his personal life relatively private, but he has been linked with various women in the music industry. As of 2025, it is reported that he is dating a prominent figure in the entertainment scene. Though he tends to keep details about his relationships under wraps, insiders suggest that he has found a supportive partner who shares his love for music and creativity.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Illa J's net worth is estimated to be around $1 million to $2 million. His income primarily comes from his music sales, streaming royalties, and live performances. As a rising star, he also engages in various business endeavors that contribute to his wealth, making him a notable figure in the hip-hop world.
Career, Business and Investments
Illa J's career has been marked by impressive releases, including albums and collaborative projects that showcase his lyrical prowess and production skills. In addition to his music, Illa J has ventured into business opportunities that align with his brand, including merchandise and collaborations with fashion lines. His investments in music production tools and independent projects reflect his dedication to maintaining creative control over his work.
Social Network
Illa J actively engages with his fan base through various social media platforms. He maintains a strong presence on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, where he shares snippets of his music, personal insights, and interacts with fans. His social media following has grown significantly, allowing him to keep in touch with his audience and promote his latest projects directly.
Education
Though specific details about Illa J's education are limited, it is known that he honed his skills through life experiences and involvement in the music scene from a young age. His exposure to various musical genres and working closely with influential figures in the industry has been an informal yet impactful education that continues to shape his artistry.
Illa J grew up in a musical family. He is the younger brother of J Dilla, and is the son of Maureen Yancey, a former opera singer, and Beverly Dewitt Yancey, a jazz bassist. John Yancey was the youngest of four children including a sister (Martha) and two brothers (Earl and James).
The family lived in a house near McDougall and Nevada, on the east side of Detroit. According to Slum Village founding member T3, before getting into music Illa J's main focus was basketball. In 2006, after the death of his brother, he decided to drop out of Central Michigan University, and continue the family's involvement with music.
