The self-produced tracks on Ruff Draft make up one of the late J Dilla's least known works. Originally released in 2003, this sought-after collection was elusive and virtually unknown to the casual Dilla fan until Stones Throw reissued it in 2007. Recorded in the wake of a failed deal with major label MCA, Dilla returned to solo recordings as a fiercely independent artist on Ruff Draft.