LL Cool J
James Todd Smith
LL Cool J is an American rapper from New York City, New York active since 1984.
- Profession
- Rapper, Actor, Songwriter
- Born
- January 14, 1968
- Years active
- 1984–present
Early life
Raised in the Queens neighborhood of St. Albans, James Smith was mailing out demo tapes as a teenager when one reached the fledgling Def Jam Recordings.
Career
As Def Jam's first star, he helped define commercial hip-hop with hits like "I Need Love" and "Mama Said Knock You Out," then built a long television and film career, notably on "NCIS: Los Angeles."
Major achievements
He was the first rapper to receive a Kennedy Center Honor and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.
Legacy
LL Cool J proved hip-hop could produce enduring mainstream superstars, bridging rap, romance ballads, and Hollywood.
References
Frequently asked questions about LL Cool J
- What is LL Cool J known for?
- LL Cool J is an American rapper from New York City, New York active since 1984. LL Cool J is recognized as a rapper, actor, and songwriter.
- Where is LL Cool J from?
- LL Cool J is from New York City, New York.
- When was LL Cool J born?
- LL Cool J was born on January 14, 1968, in New York City, New York.
- What kind of music does LL Cool J make?
- LL Cool J's music spans Hip-hop and East Coast hip-hop.
- Is LL Cool J still active?
- Yes — LL Cool J has been active since 1984 and continues to work today.
- What record labels has LL Cool J been associated with?
- LL Cool J has been associated with Def Jam.
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