LL COOL J, Hip Hop Legend and Most Important Rapper That Ever Lived, Respectfully
Terms "legend" and "icon" are often used without much thought, however, LL COOL J stands as a true testament to both.
James Todd Smith, the man behind the iconic moniker, has been a foundational figure in hip-hop for over four decades. His impact stretches far beyond music; he is a cultural force whose influence can still be felt across multiple generations. LL’s unmatched lyricism, innovation, and charisma have earned him a place in hip-hop history that few can rival.
If anyone in the genre truly embodies the title of "legend," it’s LL COOL J.
COOL J’s relationship with Def Jam Records is legendary in itself. Signed to the fledgling label in 1984, he became its first major artist. His breakout hit "I Need a Beat" was more than just a song—it was a statement. It helped launch Def Jam into the mainstream and secured the label's distribution deal with Columbia Records.
From there, LL’s 1985 debut Radio became an instant classic, putting Def Jam on the map and paving the way for hip-hop's mainstream acceptance. Without LL’s early success, it’s difficult to imagine Def Jam’s rise to prominence or the global impact hip-hop would have in the years that followed. As LL famously rapped on "Ill Bomb": "Ask Russell Simmons who put 'em up in that skyscraper."
While Kurtis Blow was the first rap solo star, LL took the concept to an entirely new level. He became the blueprint for the modern-day rap superstar, combining charisma, style, and street-smart bravado in a way that was both relatable and aspirational. His signature Kangol hat, oversized gold chains, and larger-than-life personality set him apart from his peers. Unlike earlier artists who dressed like funk bands or rock groups, LL embodied the b-boy aesthetic, making him the first true solo star of hip-hop. His influence on today’s superstar rappers—from Drake to J. Cole—is undeniable.
What sets LL COOL J apart is not just his iconic albums or early success, but his ability to evolve and remain relevant. From his 1984 debut to his 2024 FORCE album, LL has consistently released music that resonates with both new and old fans. This new album is widely regarded as one of his best in years, and it’s a contender for album of the year. What makes LL truly remarkable is his unparalleled longevity. He’s not just a relic of the past; at 56, he’s still rocking sold-out arenas and earning accolades, a true testament to his staying power.
He’s seen the evolution of hip-hop from its early days to its global dominance and adapted seamlessly. He stood shoulder to shoulder with legends like Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, and KRS-One in the late ‘80s and continues to thrive alongside a new generation of MCs, proving that his influence is both deep and enduring.
Perhaps LL’s most lasting contribution to hip-hop is his pioneering of the “rap ballad.” The 1987 hit "I Need Love," a song about heartbreak and romance, broke new ground in the genre. It wasn’t just a chart-topping single; it opened the door for future rap artists to explore vulnerability and emotion in their lyrics. From Nas to Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z to Drake, the lineage of rap ballads can be traced directly back to LL’s groundbreaking work.
LL’s contributions aren’t limited to his musical innovations; he was also a bridge between East Coast and West Coast hip-hop long before it became common. On his second album Bigger and Deffer (1987), LL collaborated with the Los Angeles-based production group L.A. Posse, made up of DJ Pooh, DJ Bobcat, and others.
These collaborations birthed some of LL’s biggest hits, including “I’m Bad” and “I Need Love.” This bi-coastal partnership wasn’t just a commercial success—it set the stage for future collaborations that would unify the genre and elevate hip-hop into a nationwide movement.
LL COOL J was one of the first to popularize the term "GOAT" (Greatest of All Time), a title now synonymous with hip-hop’s greatest legends. In 1997, LL’s Phenomenon album earned a perfect five-mic rating in The Source, solidifying his place as one of the greatest rappers of all time. The term "GOAT" had been used in sports circles, most famously by Muhammad Ali’s wife, but LL made it synonymous with his name. In 2000, he even titled an album G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time), cementing his legacy in both rap and popular culture.
LL’s influence extends far beyond the microphone. He has been a pioneer in the fashion world, helping popularize the TROOP brand in the mid-’80s and later promoting FUBU through commercials with GAP in the ’90s. His entrepreneurial spirit also led him to create Rock The Bells, a brand that encompasses music festivals, a SiriusXM radio station, and even cruises.
In addition to his music, LL’s acting career has flourished. He starred in the TV sitcom In the House in the '90s and played Special Agent Sam Hanna on NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: Hawai‘i for over a decade. His versatility as an entertainer is unmatched—his résumé includes roles in films like Krush Groove, Deep Blue Sea, and Any Given Sunday.
LL COOL J’s accolades are nothing short of extraordinary. He is a two-time Grammy Award winner and the first rapper to receive the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. In 2021, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, an honor that solidified his place in music history. He continues to break new ground, and his impact on hip-hop, culture, and the entertainment industry remains profound.
In every sense of the word, LL COOL J is a one-of-one. His artistry, innovation, and contributions to hip-hop and beyond have made him not just a rap legend, but a cultural icon for the ages.
Comments