Introduction
LL Cool J, a legendary rapper and actor, sat down for an in-depth conversation about his career, influence, and perspectives on the hip-hop industry. The discussion covered his legacy, the challenges of returning to music, and his broader impact on the culture.
LL Cool J’s Legacy in Hip-Hop
LL Cool J is recognized as one of hip-hop’s first major superstars, balancing appeal to both street and mainstream audiences. He acknowledges feeling appreciated and respected but notes that the digital era has sometimes overlooked his contributions. He aims to demonstrate his enduring relevance through new music, emphasizing that artistic greatness transcends time.
Risk and Vulnerability in Art
LL Cool J embraces the risks associated with releasing new music after a long hiatus. He compares this to athletes taking the last shot in crucial moments, highlighting the necessity of courage and vulnerability for achieving greatness.
Views on Legacy
LL Cool J believes legacy is shaped by actions in the moment rather than preoccupation with how one will be remembered. He stresses the importance of maximizing potential and letting future generations debate his impact.
Recognition and Influence
While LL Cool J values recognition, he is not overly concerned with top-five lists or comparisons to other artists. He focuses on connecting with his audience and maintaining his artistic integrity.
Ownership and Business Acumen
LL Cool J owns his entire music catalog, a rarity in the industry, thanks to fair dealings with executives like Russell Simmons and Lyor Cohen. He attributes his successful negotiations to a good working relationship and his value to the label.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction
LL Cool J was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame after a long wait. He believes his appeal to a diverse audience, particularly women, may have delayed recognition. He emphasizes the artistry involved in creating his hits, which often goes unrecognized by critics.
Balancing Acting and Music
LL Cool J has successfully balanced a career in acting and music, gaining new fans through his role on “NCIS: Los Angeles.” He acknowledges the generational divide in his fan base but remains committed to creating new music to bridge this gap.
Rock the Bells Brand
LL Cool J launched the Rock the Bells brand to celebrate and elevate classic hip-hop. He reclaimed the brand after feeling undervalued by its original organizers and has since used it to support and promote timeless rappers.
Social Commentary in Music
In his new album, “The Force,” LL Cool J addresses social issues like police brutality through songs like “Spirit of Cyrus.” He aims to create art that reflects his experiences and observations, without compromising his artistic vision for commercial success.
Evolution and Relevance
LL Cool J discusses the importance of evolving as an artist to stay relevant. He worked on improving his songwriting and adapting to contemporary styles while maintaining his unique voice.
Relationship with Def Jam
LL Cool J reflects on his time at Def Jam, his relationship with Jay-Z, and the importance of focusing on his own career rather than engaging in industry rivalries. He expresses satisfaction with his standing and contributions to hip-hop.
Closing Thoughts
LL Cool J encourages artists to be true to themselves and not get caught up in comparisons or conflicts. He remains committed to making impactful music and contributing to the culture in meaningful ways.
