The name LL Cool J is synonymous with hip-hop royalty. He's been part of the rap game since the early 1980s and is still going strong today. He's released iconic albums, starred in some of the biggest movies and TV shows of the past few decades, and launched a successful clothing line. He's been a trailblazer and a trendsetter, and his music and style continue to influence generations of hip-hop fans. With his latest album, Mr. Smith, LL Cool J celebrates his storied career with a retrospective look at his life and career.
LL Cool J Starts His Career with Radio
LL Cool J's career began in 1985 with the release of his debut single, "I Need A Beat". The track was a huge success and quickly established him as one of the most talented and exciting new artists in hip-hop. In 1987, he released his debut album, Radio, which spawned several popular singles and was certified platinum. The album was a critical and commercial success, and it established LL Cool J as a major hip-hop star. He followed up Radio with the release of Bigger and Deffer in 1989, which featured the hit single "Going Back to Cali".
The Golden Era of LL Cool J
LL Cool J's next two albums, Mama Said Knock You Out and 14 Shots to the Dome, cemented his status as one of the greatest rappers of all time. Mama Said Knock You Out produced the classic single "Mama Said Knock You Out," which won him a Grammy Award for Best Rap Solo Performance. The album was also certified double platinum and was an instant classic. 14 Shots to the Dome was also certified platinum and produced the hit single "How I'm Comin'". Both albums are widely regarded as two of the greatest hip-hop albums of all time.
LL Cool J's Acting Career
In addition to his music career, LL Cool J has had a successful acting career. He has starred in several films, including Halloween H20 and Deep Blue Sea, and he was the star of the hit CBS show NCIS: Los Angeles. He's also guest starred in a number of TV shows, including Scrubs and House. LL Cool J has proven that he is a versatile actor and has shown that he can transition seamlessly between music and acting.
LL Cool J Launches His Clothing Line
In 1995, LL Cool J launched a clothing line called Fubu. The clothing line was a huge success and was worn by many of the biggest names in hip-hop. The clothing line became a symbol of urban fashion and was worn by everyone from Jay-Z to Nelly. Fubu was also a major success for LL Cool J, as it helped to solidify his status as a trendsetter and fashion icon.
LL Cool J's Latest Album, Mr. Smith
In 2021, LL Cool J released his latest album, Mr. Smith. The album is a retrospective look at his career, and it features some of his classic songs as well as some new material. The album was a critical and commercial success and was certified gold. It was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. Mr. Smith is an excellent album that showcases LL Cool J's talent and longevity.
LL Cool J's Legacy
LL Cool J is one of the most successful and influential rappers of all time. He has been a trendsetter and a trailblazer, and his music and style have inspired generations of hip-hop fans. He has released classic albums, starred in some of the biggest movies and TV shows, and launched a successful clothing line. He's an icon and a legend, and his career is a testament to his hard work and dedication. LL Cool J is a hip-hop legend and will be remembered for generations to come.
