LL Cool J
LL Cool J landed in the national spotlight in 1985 at the age of 17 with the release of his debut album Radio. He was one of the increasingly crowded scene of Rap hopefuls. Few would have guessed it was the beginning of a 20+ year career as one of the top Hip-Hop performers in the world crossing musical boundaries into Pop and Dance music stardom. Hip-Hop careers have tended to be short-lived, but LL has combined obvious Rap skills with a promising acting career, good looks and an engaging public personality to remain in the spotlight for the long haul.
Raised in New York City’s borough of Queens, LL Cool J (his given name is James Todd Smith, the stage name stands for ‘Ladies Love Cool James’) began rapping at the tender age of 9. By the age of 13 his grandparents had given him a DJ system and he was making home recordings. LL drew the attention of fledgling Def Jam Records in 1984. He was hired by label co-owners Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin to record Def Jam’s first single release. I Need a Beat, the resulting single, sold over 100,000 copies and LL Cool J returned to the studio to record a full-length album. The subsequent release, 1985’s Radio eventually went platinum and landed singles on the R&B and Dance charts. Revered Village Voice music critic Robert Christgau hailed the debut as ‘the most engaging and original rap album of the year.’
A late 1985 appearance in the Rap-themed movie Krush Groove fanned the flames of stardom for LL Cool J. Following a featured role in the 1986 Raising Hell tour with headliners Run-DMC, the Beastie Boys, Whodini and Kurtis Blow, the sophomore album Bigger and Deffer was released. It featured the massive Pop hit ballad I Need Love as well as another Dance hit I’m Bad. 1988’s Going Back To Cali from the Less Than Zero movie soundtrack kept LL in the spotlight while 1989’s album Walking With a Panther was completed. That album spawned the single I’m That Type Of Guy which topped the Rap chart, reached the Top 10 on R&B and Dance charts, and Top 20 Pop. Despite the commercial success, there were grumblings in the Rap community that LL Cool J was selling out to Pop audiences.
His answer appeared with the hard-hitting Mama Said Knock You Out in 1990. The Boomin’ System, Around the Way Girl, and the title track followed in quick succession as major Rap, Dance and R&B hits. LL Cool J crushed any suppositions that he was lacking in commitment to Rap as a distinct musical form. He received a Grammy award for ‘Best Rap Solo’ on the title track. In the wake of the success of Mama Said Knock You Out, LL embarked on an acting career in films with roles in The Hard Way and Toys. He was even invited to perform in the inauguration festivities for President Bill Clinton. The next album 14 Shots To the Dome finally appeared in 1993 and, unexpectedly, was a commercial failure. Critics began to write his epitaph as a Rap superstar while his acting career continued to gain approval with his feature role in the television sitcom In the House.
LL Cool J was not down for long. 1995’s album Mr. Smith sent him back to the top of the charts with the duet with BoyzIIMen on Hey Lover and the sexy Doin’ It. The success of Mr. Smith set the stage for the greatest hits album All World in 1996. LL has not made it back to the Dance chart in the past 10 years but his Pop and R&B success has continued. His album G.O.A.T. Greatest Of All Time reached the top of
both the Pop and R&B charts in 2000 and the album 10 topped the R&B chart in 2002. LL Cool J has proved himself to be one of the most enduring of Rap/Hip-Hop artists with his latest work scheduled out in the fall of 2004.
#1 by Rudy Soden on April 13th, 2011 - 12:15 pm
Hello are using Wordpress for your site platform? I’m new to the blog world but I’m trying to get started and create my own. Do you require any coding expertise to make your own blog? Any help would be really appreciated!
#2 by wireless headphones with mic on April 13th, 2011 - 12:26 pm
Despite many views, good explored content articles still deliver in reviewers like me. You paraded clear understanding of the topic issue and my sentiments are now complete after reading publish. Please keep up the sound work and i’ll sign up to your rss nourish to be enlightened of any forthcoming postings.
#3 by MP3Panda on April 13th, 2011 - 12:41 pm
Pretty impressive article. I just stumbled upon your site and wanted to say that I have really enjoyed reading your opinions. Any way I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope you post again soon.
#4 by Web Design on April 13th, 2011 - 12:46 pm
Excellent points?I might note that as someone who actually doesn’t write on blogs a lot (actually, this can be my first submit), I don’t think the term ‘lurker’ is very becoming to a non-posting reader. It’s not your fault in the slightest degree , but perhaps the blogosphere may just get a hold of a greater, non-creepy identify for the ninety% people that revel in reading the content material .
#5 by Free Porn Videos on April 13th, 2011 - 12:51 pm
Of course, what a fantastic website and enlightening posts, I will bookmark your blog.Best Regards!
#6 by affiliate marketing success on April 13th, 2011 - 12:51 pm
I am unable to thank you enough for the articles on your site. I know you put a lot of time and effort into all of them and really hope you know how deeply I appreciate it. I hope I could do exactly the same for another individual one of these days.
#7 by adult dvds on April 13th, 2011 - 1:10 pm
You don’t need to persuade me with heavy words and deep ideas, I’m able to read through what you are saying and what you want to accomplish within your writings. I don’t have to agree all the time, but all I can say is actually, this is just an excellent piece.
#8 by rug cleaning on April 13th, 2011 - 1:34 pm
It is rare to encounter an experienced person in whom you can have some trust. In the world of today, nobody truly cares about showing others the solution in this subject matter. How fortunate I am to have definitely found a wonderful blog as this. It is people like you exactly who make a true difference nowadays through the thoughts they talk about.
#9 by rug cleaning on April 13th, 2011 - 1:55 pm
I couldn’t have asked for an even better blog. You are available to supply excellent advice, going straight to the point for simple understanding of your visitors. You’re truly a terrific pro in this field. Many thanks for always being there individuals like me.
#10 by wireless headphones tv on April 13th, 2011 - 2:29 pm
First, permit me to commend your uncloudedness on this topic. I am not professional on this theme, but after registering your article, my understanding has developed substantially. Please tolerate me to snap up your feed to remain in contact with any incoming updates. Solid job and will offer it on to supporters and my web website followers.
#11 by KubaSeoTräume on April 13th, 2011 - 2:33 pm
I dont think Ive caught all the angles of this subject the way youve pointed them out. Youre a true star, a rock star man. Youve got so much to say and know so much about the subject that I think you should just teach a class about it
#12 by KubaSeoTräume on April 13th, 2011 - 3:01 pm
I really believe you will do much better in the future I appreciate everything you have added to my knowledge base.Admiring the time and effort you put into your site and detailed information you offer!
#13 by sex cam on April 13th, 2011 - 3:36 pm
Needed to post you the tiny word to finally thank you very much once again for all the splendid views you have discussed on this page. It’s really open-handed with people like you to make without restraint all that most of us would have sold for an e-book in order to make some cash for their own end, notably since you could have tried it if you ever considered necessary. These inspiring ideas also served as the fantastic way to understand that other people have the same keenness the same as my own to understand a great deal more on the topic of this issue. I know there are some more pleasurable times ahead for those who looked over your blog post.
#14 by rug cleaning on April 13th, 2011 - 4:18 pm
The suggestions you discussed here are incredibly useful. It turned out such an enjoyable surprise to get that awaiting me when I woke up today. They are usually to the point and straightforward to grasp. Thank you so much for the clever ideas you’ve got shared above.
#15 by air condition repair in Jackson MS on April 13th, 2011 - 4:42 pm
The suggestions you provided here are incredibly useful. It had been such a pleasurable surprise to have that awaiting me as i woke up this very day. They are always to the point and simple to grasp. Thanks for your time for the thoughtful ideas you have shared right here.
#16 by free xbox 360 on April 13th, 2011 - 4:51 pm
Thanks for some good thoughts there. I am kind of new to the internet , so I printed this off to put in my file, any better way to go about keeping track of it then printing?
#17 by kids aprons on April 13th, 2011 - 5:50 pm
Have you thought about adding some relevant links to your article? I think it will really enhance everyone’s understanding.
#18 by aprons for women on April 13th, 2011 - 5:54 pm
“Can you message me with a few hints & tips about how you made this site look like this , I would be appreciative.”
#19 by kid aprons on April 13th, 2011 - 5:54 pm
This blog site has got lots of very useful info on it. Thanks for helping me!
#20 by chef jackets on April 13th, 2011 - 5:54 pm
An interesting post right there mate . Thank you for that .
#21 by Larissa Lepre on April 13th, 2011 - 6:12 pm
I needed to say your blog is very good. I continuously wish to hear anything new about this as a result of I even have the similar blog in my Country on this subject thus this help´s me plenty. I did a research on the matter and observed a wonderful style of blogs but nothing like this.Thanks for sharing such a lot within your blog.
#22 by DMV Kentucky on April 13th, 2011 - 6:26 pm
I’m honored to get a call from a friend immediately he found the important ideas shared on the site. Examining your blog posting is a real excellent experience. Thanks again for taking into account readers much like me, and I want for you the best of achievements as being a professional arena.
#23 by time saving Fat Loss workouts on April 13th, 2011 - 6:48 pm
Hello there, just became aware of your blog through Google, and found that it is truly informative. I’m going to watch out for brussels. I will appreciate if you continue this in future. Lots of people will be benefited from your writing. Cheers!
#24 by 3300139 on April 13th, 2011 - 7:04 pm
What a lovely day for a 3300139! SCK was here
#25 by handyman richmond va on April 13th, 2011 - 7:19 pm
Great blog here! Also your site loads up very fast! What host are you using? Can I get your affiliate link to your host? I wish my web site loaded up as quickly as yours lol
#26 by how to count cards on April 13th, 2011 - 7:25 pm
I would like to express thanks to the writer just for bailing me out of this issue. As a result of surfing around through the internet and seeing tricks which were not helpful, I believed my life was well over. Being alive minus the solutions to the difficulties you have sorted out as a result of the guideline is a serious case, as well as the kind that would have negatively damaged my entire career if I hadn’t come across your website. The training and kindness in controlling a lot of stuff was tremendous. I’m not sure what I would have done if I hadn’t come across such a stuff like this. I am able to at this point look forward to my future. Thank you very much for this reliable and effective help. I won’t be reluctant to recommend your web site to any individual who needs support on this matter.
#27 by craigslist posting service on April 13th, 2011 - 7:29 pm
What would we do devoid of the brilliant strategies you write about on this site? Who else has the perseverance to deal with critical topics in the interests of common visitors like me? My partner and i and my girlfriends are very blessed to have your site among the kinds we typically visit. It is hoped you know how considerably we take pleasure in your work! Best wishes coming from us all.
#28 by Best online booking deals and rates for hotels in China on April 13th, 2011 - 8:41 pm
I simply wanted to let you know how much I appreciate every thing you’ve shared to help increase the value of the lives of an individual in this subject material. Through the articles, I have gone out of just a novice to an expert in the area. It is truly a tribute to your good work. Thanks
#29 by how can i make my breasts grow on April 13th, 2011 - 8:44 pm
You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter to be really something that I think I would never understand. It seems too complex and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!
#30 by Deadra Batteiger on April 13th, 2011 - 9:37 pm
Great article I’ve just added to my bookmark list.
#31 by psychic phone readings on April 13th, 2011 - 11:15 pm
Just right points?I might note that as anyone who actually doesn’t write on blogs much (actually, this can be my first post), I don’t assume the time period ‘lurker’ is very becoming to a non-posting reader. It’s no longer your fault in the slightest degree , however in all probability the blogosphere may just come up with a better, non-creepy identify for the 90% of us that experience reading the content .
#32 by rio pfaltzgraff on April 13th, 2011 - 11:19 pm
Your website came up in my search and I’m impressed by what you have published on this topic. I am currently expanding my inquiry and thus cannot contribute further, nevertheless, I have bookmarked your website and will be returning to keep up with any upcoming updates. Just love it and gives thanks for tolerating my comment.
#33 by טכנאי מזגנים on April 14th, 2011 - 12:13 am
מחפשים טכנאי מקרר בחברה איכותית המתקנת מוצרי חשמל ברמה מקצועית? התקשרו לחברת ניסים קירור, חברה מובילה בתחום תיקון מזגנים וקבלו הצעת מחיר אטרקטיבית ושירות אדיב. מומלץ!
#34 by Marlen Hyon on April 14th, 2011 - 12:17 am
I’d have to check with you here. Which is not something I normally do! I take pleasure in studying a submit that will make folks think. Additionally, thanks for allowing me to comment!
#35 by Chickepox Rashes on April 14th, 2011 - 1:44 am
Thank you for this unique article. I especially enjoyed reviewing it and ought to discuss it with everyone.
#36 by varicella zoster virus on April 14th, 2011 - 2:50 am
WONDERFUL Post.thanks for share..more wait .. …
#37 by Toilet Partition Hardware on April 14th, 2011 - 3:28 am
Hello this is a great article. I’m going to mail this to my buddies. I came on this while searching on bing I’ll be sure to come back. thanks for sharing.
#38 by best scar treatment on April 14th, 2011 - 3:31 am
I keep listening to the reports lecture about getting boundless online grant applications so I have been looking around for the best site to get one. Could you advise me please, where could i get some?
#39 by Chicken Pox Rashes on April 14th, 2011 - 3:41 am
There’s noticeably a bundle to know about this. I assume you made certain nice points in options also.
#40 by Anabolika Ersatz on April 14th, 2011 - 3:42 am
Ich bin mithilfe Google auf deiner Page gestrandet und möchte eben thematisieren, dass ich Webseite tatsächlich für gut befinde! Weiter so! Unter Umständen magst Du auch mal meine Site über das Thema Anabolika besuchen? Anabolika sind Tabletten, die den Muskelmasseaufbau begünstigen!
#41 by phan mem quan ly ban hang free on April 14th, 2011 - 3:44 am
Hands down, Apple’s app store wins by a mile. It’s a huge selection of all sorts of apps vs a rather sad selection of a handful for Zune. Microsoft has plans, especially in the realm of games, but I’m not sure I’d want to bet on the future if this aspect is important to you. The iPod is a much better choice in that case.
#42 by best scar treatment on April 14th, 2011 - 3:55 am
Wow, awesome blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you made blogging look easy. The overall look of your site is magnificent, as well as the content!
#43 by how to lose stomach fat on April 14th, 2011 - 4:09 am
Hi, i’m looking for info. Thanks for your article. I’m going to come back here and check out more of your posts every couple of weeks. Thanks sauna weight loss info.
#44 by information on chicken pox on April 14th, 2011 - 4:54 am
Thank you for this unique article. I especially enjoyed reviewing it and ought to discuss it with everyone.
#45 by click here on April 14th, 2011 - 4:57 am
wonderful bit of
#46 by natural remedies for psoriasis on April 14th, 2011 - 5:12 am
Thank you for the sensible critique. Me and my neighbour were just setting up to do some research about this. I am very grateful to see such great information being shared freely out there.
#47 by get rid of belly fat on April 14th, 2011 - 5:40 am
Hi Everyone, i’m a first time visitor.I really like your website. I was wondering about your story, this is great info. Thank you.lower left back pain
#48 by click here on April 14th, 2011 - 6:37 am
friend
#49 by sex dvd on April 14th, 2011 - 6:43 am
If I within work, I always find my means by here in the office, I always find my personal way into this location. It could make or break my day at any particular time. But mostly it makes it. Smile smiles smile.
#50 by Lakendra Buenrostro on April 14th, 2011 - 7:00 am
I have really learned result-oriented things as a result of your blog site. One other thing I’d prefer to say is newer computer system os’s have a tendency to allow a lot more memory to be used, but they also demand more memory space simply to run. If an individual’s computer is not able to handle a lot more memory and the newest software program requires that memory increase, it can be the time to shop for a new Computer system. Thanks