R.I.P. Baatin

Baatin, from the original line-up of Slum Village (with T3 and J Dilla), passed away today. T3's now the remaining member from the original SV, with the addition of Elzhi. The photo above (Dilla, T3, Baatin) was taken by photojournalist Mpozi Mshale Tolbert (who passed away in 2006).



The first time I remember seeing Baatin was in the video for Slum Village's "Tainted" (above) from their third album, Trinity. The image of him, his turban and his unique voice was stuck in my head for a long time. T3 and Elzhi reunited with Baatin and brought in J Dilla's brother Illa J to record their new album, Villa Manifesto, that is supposed to be released on September 22nd.

Baatin
Slum Village
Mpozi Mshale Tolbert