LL Cool J is taking a moment to acknowledge his groundbreaking contributions to the world of hip-hop and beyond.
On Friday, Nov. 29, the legendary rapper, 56, graced Apple Music‘s Le Code with host Mehdi Maïzi, where he openly reflected on his long-lasting impact on rap culture.
“I’m gonna say this humbly, but I mean it,” he began, with an air of self-assurance. “I truly believe that one day, people will realize that LL Cool J is the most important rapper to have ever existed. I honestly believe that’s what they’ll say.”
He continued, outlining some of his monumental achievements in the genre. “They’re gonna look back and say, ‘This is the guy who brought the bling-bling—jewelry, diamonds, the ice, the champagne.’” LL Cool J added, “When it comes to love songs, they’ll say, ‘This is the guy who pioneered all those love anthems.’”
“And when it comes to the rebellious bad-boy attitude? They’ll know, I was the one who set that tone before it became a thing. When they talk about the G.O.A.T. title? Yeah, that was me too,” he said, emphasizing his influence. “I could keep going. I’ve done a lot.”
The Grammy-winning rapper also reflected on his role in shaping the iconic term G.O.A.T., which stands for “Greatest of All Time.” He credits the term to his 2000 album G.O.A.T., though he humbly acknowledges the inspiration came from two towering figures in the world of sports: Muhammad Ali and Harlem’s legendary basketball player, Earl Manigault.
The icon continued his walk down memory lane, reminiscing about his entrepreneurial ventures. “When it comes to FUBU, they’ll say, ‘This is the guy who brought clothing lines to the forefront,’” he said. “And even before that, there was Troop. When it comes to endorsements, they’ll say, ‘This is the guy who made Kangol a thing before anyone else did.’”
LL Cool J’s impact stretches far beyond music. He has starred in hit television shows like NCIS: Los Angeles, graced the big screen in films such as Deep Blue Sea and Last Holiday, and written multiple books, including his autobiography I Make My Own Rules.
He’s also founded his own music label, P.O.G. (Power of God), and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.
“I’ve done so much for the culture, it’s almost unimaginable,” he said, reflecting on his legacy. “Every artist you can think of, the biggest billionaires in the business, they got their start on the label I launched on. I’m not trying to brag, but when you look at the bigger picture, it’s honestly staggering
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